Future vs. Past: Can a Bat'leth Defeat a Longsword?

[@sackofclams953]

Considering Klingon culture, I imagine the idea is to charge like a bull and hope you can block their first attack while finishing them in one move. Then if they block YOUR attack you just lock weapons til someone gets stabbed by the pointy bits

[@vaisravana2092]

Or just charge them like a bull, tank the hit if you get stabbed cuz you got those fancy extra organs and then squeeze them to death with raw physical strength even if they somehow block xD But yeah..even Klingons..probably? would not be crazy enough to intentionally take hits as a routine...maybe

[@triela420]

Klingon's seem to be physically superior to most species in durability and strength, so the average Klingon's strategy is like you said, charge and overpower the opponent.

[@choczynski]

Also fighting in corridors

[@leoprzytuac3660]

Yeah, and one could easily deduce by the design that it was originally designed to shine in grappling and stab into armor gaps.

[@ForwardSynthesis]

Klingons also have extremely rugged biology with criss-crossing ribcages and redundant organs, so finishing it in a single snipe is not as likely as it would be for a human. The human's longsword would cut a tendon in the Klingon's hand, and then the Klingon would charge the point through the human's little weak baby bird sternum.

[@MatoVuc]

Your partners ability to redirect his sword strikes at the last moment like that is quite impressive

[@SeviathTheHumanDrago]

Wrist dexterity.

[@tarrker]

@@SeviathTheHumanDrago I've always been the most naturally agile and dexterous person I've ever know. Which is probably why I was always been a naturally skilled fighter too. Not trying to brag, just being honest. But, that being said, this guy is better than I've EVER been. He's just on another level from anything I've ever seen. I fought full contact with weapons for nearly 20 years and I've honestly never seen anyone with that much raw skill. I would be honored to loose to that man. LoL :)

[@PenneySounds]

Foam sword is likely a big help there

[@tarrker]

@@PenneySounds not really. Those "fake" weapons are designed to mimic the real thing. I've been training with weapons my entire life with a focus on swords and, trust me, if you're good with them, you're good with the real thing. :)

[@Parents_of_Twins]

@@tarrker Is it true that a person who is an expert with a quarterstaff can beat an expert swordsman most of the time? It's from a the Wheel of Time series and the logic used to explain it seems to make sense but figured I would ask someone who is highly experienced in weapons combat.

[@adambielen8996]

I feel like the reason the Bat'leth is described as being so heavy in the shows is because the writers had no idea what real melee weapons would weigh. So they just put a random number that sounded good to them.

[@Idazmi7]

Klingons were already established long before to be *absurdly* strong compared to humans. They aren't just humans with weird heads.

[@johnbarton1941]

They probably did the conversion wrong from pounds to kilograms, lol

[@TimeKitt]

They could have just weighed a prop that's just a dummy thick piece of sheetmetal, not an actual blade..

[@darkironraven]

It's also supposed that klingons are far stronger than humans.

[@a-blivvy-yus]

Part of the problem is that they had a real martial artist and weapon expert who designed the bat'leth, and they consulted him on the weight of the weapon then just flat doubled the number he proposed, citing "advanced materials" and "Klingons are strong enough so they make them heavier" instead of considering practical use of the weapon benefitting from it being light even if you're strong enough to handle a heavier one.

[@grahck4391]

Something to point out. In the TNG shows, Worf described the batleth as being an extension of the arm and a part of the body. When he duels Duras, Worf uses the batleth against a saber.

[@n.d.m.515]

One thing I noticed is the use as a defensive weapon in the video. Watch the battles in ST and they are much more dynamic in movement of body and weapon. They are basically a martial arts weapon rather than sword play. The video use is way too static instead of repositioning straight up and down as in the show. Flat holding is for blocking and resting, but immediately it will be moved and twisted as the body charges forward.

[@BigPanda096]

​@@n.d.m.515 the reason for the static use is because any other usage leaves you so defenseless with an easily enough partied attack that it's worthless and pointless to do. None of that stuff would work in a real fight they do with it in ST

[@jek__]

@@BigPanda096 Going for overly aggressive fighting moves probably makes more sense when you have redundant hearts lol

[@kevincrady2831]

@@BigPanda096 The fact that Klingons usually fight in armor might make that a bit more practical, at least when today isn't a good day to die ("My daughter's sixth birthday is tomorrow! I'm wearing the duralloy!"). 😄

[@notproductiveproductions3504]

@@n.d.m.515that’s like asking why the alternative fist formations of kung fu aren’t seen in MMA. Try it, see what happens

[@The_Real_Oklinhos]

Hey Skall, i think that this kind of video should always be made in a 2 days session... on the first day you experiment, and duel with the "new weapon" just like you did, but then, watch the footage and take the rest of the day to try to repeat those kind of attacks the worked... and then the next day, with the new set of moves on your mind, duel again, maybe against longswords just like you did... without really digesting the new moves and fight style, you always end up doing what you are used to do in HEMA... and sickles and bat'lechs are not used in HEMA, right?

[@chopstick1671]

Sickles are used in HEMA

[@GameTimeWhy]

Wrong

[@killzinshadows3767]

I like it man . Great training for shure, good video as well if done right.

[@Skallagrim]

Yeah, I agree. Ideally more time of practice in between, although I find it difficult to juggle everything on my to-do list.

[@daviddair3944]

I also agree, it seems the Klingon psychology favours an in your face almost grappling style of combat that might negate the longsword’s reach?

[@nosajimiki5885]

One thing I'm noticing here is that the bat'leth does not seem to need to move nearly as much as you instinctively think it should. The same way novice swordsmen often over extend thier motions, most of the times that the longsword gets through seems to be when you over-commit a block with the Bat'leth. Many of the successful blocks and counters seem to be with relatively small, tight motions. I'm also seeing a lot of hesitation as your brain works to figure out the next step which is where weapon familiarity plays such a huge role. While both fighters with the longsword are in constant motion, knowing automatically what comes next, I am seeing many examples where the bat'leth fighter is getting thier opening and waiting nearly a whole second to even begin acting on it. So there are many missed opportunities where what may feel like physical limitations are actually mental ones.

[@randomusernameCallin]

Agree it seem to be more narrow area it needs. That I wonder if the Bat'leth is more about narrow area style combat like on ship and the like.

[@HighmageDerin]

part of his problem is his stance with it. hes holding it completely horizontal and cant quickly chance the possession to get lower aimed attacks. the other is when he does manage to catch his opponents weapon he does not push the counter attack. he needs a more angled hold on the weapon. and he needs to stop dodging. the batleth is from a culture of aggressive warriors who view caution the same as cowardice. when you can push the attack you push it. Parry the blow and STEP INTO your opponents reach. and THEN strike with the weapon! hes viewing the weapon as a sword. it is not a sword................

[@FerretJohn]

As I've said before, it's not the weapon but the wielder. Weapons are tools, extensions of the warrior using it, warriors train endlessly with their weapons, they don't just grab one and charge into battle. Klingons have been using and perfecting martial arts systems that work around the Bat'leth for centuries, while I'm sure these guys are well-intentioned their video is essentially two kids playing in the backyard with Nerf swords.

[@nosajimiki5885]

@@FerretJohn Different weapons are categorically better in certain situations than others, but regardless I do agree that weapon familiarity trumps weapon design in most cases. I would really like to see if Scal could find someone who's actually trained a few years on Bat'leth to come spar him.

[@FerretJohn]

@@nosajimiki5885 Absolutely, Engineering 101: The right tool for the right job, when you're in tight quarters a spear would be less than helpful, and never bring a knife to a gunfight

[@SentecaMorvan]

Keep this coming. I am really impressed by what you already have come up with, and as you pointed out, there is probably some techniques which would work different with fighting with a Bathleth than with a long sword (probably you would need to close in a lot more often than staying back where you have a big disadvantage). Definitely better than a stick ;)

[@Skallagrim]

Yep, I'd fight a mere stick with a bat'leth any day. :) Unless it's a pointy stick...

[@sekira4516]

@@Skallagrim but what about the stick with Erictle Stickfunction?

[@1IGG]

@@sekira4516 a whip? Flail?

[@sekira4516]

@@1IGG the nunchuck... have you not seen Shad's legendary rant on the matter?

[@delanovanraalte3646]

@@1IGG lets not talk about the whip and nine tails I don't think I should remember what i can do to motivate my volunteers for life

[@KriegMarshal94]

The real bare-bones basic idea of a Bat'leth is to be *hyper* aggressive - in a duel they may go slow kinda like Samurai at times, but in full fledge battle it's a matter of moving fast, getting close, and destroying the enemy. I imagine they'd also use the gap at either end to catch and control a blade, or disarm an opponent if possible.

[@trebacca9]

Fascinating how the design of the Batleth demands a more, well, Klingon approach. It's too short and heavy to be reactive, so you have to be aggressive. It's tricky to block it and it's good in the bind, so it suits a rush-block-strike pattern well.

[@Skallagrim]

Yes, rushing in is definitely a suitable Klingon strategy. And I imagine having a more robust anatomy also helps tank lighter strikes you might be exposed to in the attempt.

[@fenrir509]

@@Skallagrim That, and as you mentioned in the previous video- klingons would be measurably stronger pound-for-pound than we are, so I imagine those one-handed strikes wouldn't be so vulnerable on recovery; in terms of balance, it looks like it should feel like a kukri or brokeback saex. ALSO scifi writers have no sense of scale and almost no writers know what melee weapons weigh, so between those factors, it's likely that an in-universe, non-ceremonial bat'leth would probably not have much, if any, of a weight disadvantage. Still faces all the typical problems of a short weapon vs. a longer one, of course. Kinda curious to see bat'leth vs. spear; I feel like a weapon with fewer attack vectors than a longsword might be easier to bind or foul on a parry, and harder to recover when an aggressive opponent closes quickly. Not placing any bets on whether that surmounts the reach issue, though.

[@benhughes9838]

@@fenrir509 I can so see a Klingon Master of Arms bellowing, "Get in there! If you aren't willing to bleed, you aren't willing to fight!"

[@jeffreywilons1036]

un no dude. the best bat leth fighters are VERY reactive. block counterstrike

[@Skallagrim]

@@jeffreywilons1036 And where have you observed "the best bat leth fighters"? Outside of Star Trek episodes, I mean. :)

[@benjaminbrand3714]

Loved this! A few things I noticed: 1. It's surprising how vulnerable your hands are using one of these. 2. Your sparring partner fights with the precision and economy of movement of a freaking machine and it terrifies me 😂

[@DiphonFX]

For technique suggestions I would look at Sigmund Ringeck’s half-sword in armor. It’s basically bat’leth. I still think the bat’leth makes sense if both people are in armor. Think of it as a can-opener not surgical tool.

[@skeffmaestro]

Seems like it’s main use would have been pushing people into walls around corners. Someone should do this kind of testing with hallways and paint balls.

[@gustavogiorno3122]

This!!! Its basicly an improved half-swording. And the mass and hook points means that you can do a lot of damage trough the little armor gaps. And since you are in full armor you really dont care for the first light cut of your oponent's sword.

[@RMLLcrazy]

I agree. it does feel like it makes more sense to hold it through two adjacent openings rather than horizontally.

[@inventor121]

@@gustavogiorno3122 Take a look at Atmospheric Diving Suits and realize that's the kind of armour you'd be up against in narrow corridor. Those things are literally bulletproof and turn their wearers into walking tanks (they weigh a literal ton though). As for why you wouldn't just use bullets, well the main problem is atmospheric composition. If your atmosphere is 100% Oxygen it is very easy for it to catch fire.

[@Justanotherconsumer]

@@inventor121 bullets also have a tendency to go through objects and when you’re in a pressurized tin can, that’s a problem.

[@mikebryant614]

I liked the honest disclaimer in the middle that lack of familiarity and training was a YUGE factor in the outcome. It doesnt matter how good or bad a weapon may be if you lack the ability to use it instinctively due to lack of familiarity / training.As Bruce Lee said " I fear the man more who has practised one kick a thousand times, than the man who has practised a thousand kicks once".

[@Lhaenen]

Isnt it the opposite? Like practifing a thousand kicks once means a lot of different without getting better at anything special and 1 kick a thousand times is training and perfecting the move

[@Lhaenen]

Ah nvm i misread

[@zerabp1130]

Reach is one of the largest deciding factors in any martial art, whether armed or unarmed. Not surprising that reach is a big part of what limits it's viability.

[@Idazmi7]

He's also thinking with only one side of the weapon. A Bat'leth not a weirdly-shaped arming sword: it's more like a quarterstaff. Use the entire weapon instead of only one side of it. For example, there's nothing stopping you from immediately transitioning from an overhead strike with one side, to a body blow with the opposite side.

[@MizanQistina]

Not really, just weak touching don't mean anything in combat, only matters in sport. For example, Kendo attacks are not strong despite being fast, I mean weak against armored person who they have to fight in real battle, but they score in competition. Similarly, rapier weak stab isn't do much, they will hurt and causing injury but only on those don't wear any protection at all, but it is a score in competition. Same with unarmed, those cool attacks you see in MMA ring could be useless outside, all people tolerate pain differently, especially drunk people.

[@Frankie1622]

True, though I feel like, according to the way it was shown to be used here, the users were a bit too hung up on using the unusual features of the bat’leth and would’ve been better off using it like a sword initially. The bat’leth seems to excel in extreme close range combat and would be able to get more strikes in by tangling the opponent’s blade while delivering strikes with the free end. In other words, if a longsword user is highly accustomed to half-swording that person would be able to adapt to using the bat-leth relatively quickly and also enjoy being able to deliver cuts from the ‘handle side’ of the ‘sword’

[@cheesestyx945]

Yeah it's why UFC and boxing list height, weight, AND reach.

[@johndoe-pb1di]

Not necessarily though… look at martial art taekwondo uses a lot of kicks which have more range but if you deny them the range by being right up in their space they can’t kick. Same idea here most of the force from a sword is at the end of the blade the closer you are to the hilt the less room they have to maneuver. If you can’t maneuver your weapon you die..

[@christiankalk4668]

Couple observations here: 1) A common theme in your sparring sessions between mis-matched weapons is that an exchange ending in BOTH combatants getting injured seems extremely likely 2) Bat'Leth appears to have difficulty parrying a straight thrust 3) I'm amazed by the longsword's ability to recover and counter after being blocked; it looks like the Bat'Leth user needs to achieve a bind instead of just blocking in order to successfully close range, otherwise the sword is simply too fast. 4) A major training point for Bat-Lath needs to be properly angling the weapon to protect the hands. 5) Would the results have been different if you guys had as much experience with Bat'Leth as you do with longswords?

[@Idazmi7]

5) Absolutely. That goes for any weapon, honestly.

[@TheCrimsonIdol987]

1. Doubles are extremely common even in evenly matched duels. 2. I noticed that too. One of the main advantages of the sword is its ability to cut AND thrust. 3. Probably the sword's main advantage paired with its cutting and thrusting ability. You get maximum results with minimum effort, the hallmark of efficient design. 4. Agreed. 5. Absolutely. Familiarity with weapons increases their efficacy, that's just simple common sense.

[@hamstermk4]

My boffer group made some foam bat'leths for a scifi convention we were invited to demo at. My first thought when using one "was how could something this heavy have so little reach?" I completely understand why neither of you were charging the other. Faster shorter weapon charges heavier longer weapon because you can win the speed game up close. Having a slower shorter weapon does not fill you with confidence that you are going to win up close.

[@daviddent5662]

bImaSbej! It is not the weapon that lacks reach but the warrior. Klingons are quite large and imposing warriors with fairly longer arms and legs. The few who are stouter of frame may simply take the blow head on and having endured it from weaker foe crush them with their counterstrike eliminating the enemy's ability to dance away.

[@ungobungo7986]

@@daviddent5662 no point justifying a fantasy weapon, if they're so strong they should have a massive spear.

[@HighmageDerin]

my group also had a few. but with one difference. the guy who made them was one of those (quite litteral) Card carrying Klingon larpers, even spoke the language, The Fighting style they invented for the weapon is all about pushing the attack. you never retreat, after all retreating is for cowereds and Klingon honer is all about courage! his fighting style was all about parrying not blocking. followed up by an aggressive PUSH to inside my weapons effective range. Then attacking with the ends while keeping control over my weapon with his. he won most of his fights in one on one confrontations. against 2 opponents he had to fall back into defense only. as locking up a blade locked up his as well. and his short reach hurt him.

[@ironfist7789]

@@HighmageDerin makes sense, and then pull out the disruptor to get more range ;)

[@HighmageDerin]

@@ironfist7789 Now now they're klingons not romulans.... Really though that's the d*** move a cardashian would pull!

[@Idazmi7]

I see that you're thinking with only one side of the weapon, as if you weren't wielding a blade that effectively has two sides to it. It's not a weirdly-shaped arming sword: it's more like a quarterstaff. Use the _entire_ weapon instead of only one side of it. For example, there's nothing stopping you from immediately transitioning from an overhead strike with one side, to a body blow with the opposite side.

[@ryanodom6101]

Great content! I enjoyed watching this real world VS sci-fi matchup. I’d love to see more examples of this, with both real and imagined weapons. I think its great for testing and demonstrating practicality VS creativity.

[@RhinoBarbarian]

I know Skall hates it, but I would love to see him do this with Kayblade vs. longsword.

[@Kapuzki]

Long time follower here. Your conclusions seem correct. Trekkie friends brougth a couple of aluminum trainers to a HEMA gettogether, and we had opportunity to fool around with them and do some sparring. Leaving the classic double grip for kind of halfswording situations, we ended up using the thing like a dacian falx/ dagger/ hook sword hybrid. Lots of low stances, and quite a bit of athletisism is required, but the results were *interesting*. Handles like an oversized can opener, but I imagine a system of techniques built around the pros of such a weapon, used in a situation that benefits from it, and yeah. It's good.

[@chriseash6497]

I think you guys should try to develop the style more. As you said it is mostly about lack of familiarity. If I had a longsword with an afternoon of training either of you guys would kick my butt with the bat'leth. The style seems like it would be a mix of sword and axe and focus a lot on aggression, kicking your habit of stepping back and instead moving forward to bind up the longsword and body checking your opponent inside his guard before following up with the killing blow.

[@nosajimiki5885]

I would like to see how someone who specializes with a katana fares with the bat'leth. The katana has many of the same disadvantages as the bat'leth, but I've see it overcome the long sword quite often when the fighter is used to having to close the gap.

[@TuckBolt]

I think the way you've been fighting with the Bat'leth is very Klingon. Block fatal blows, then let smaller blows that will hurt (but not kill) get through and deal lethal damage at the same time. There are several times where you block a body or head shot, but then swing out and hit your opponent in the neck/head while he hits you in the leg. That feels very Klingon.

[@lucielm]

They had so much more redundant organs and stuff. The only ones I'd say are dangerous blows even shallow are the hand strikes. A lost finger is a grip lost as well. So hand strikes and core strikes are the only thing that would stop a Klingon in a sparing match like this vs leg and arm cuts for a human that would be able to do some damage.

[@digitalis2977]

@@lucielm There's a reason Klingons wear metal-backed gloves (besides having additional hard spikey-bits to punch faces.) Hands/Digits are one of the few places where Klingons don't have adapted biological redundancies.

[@danielweiss7396]

I would like to see how the fight would go in a hallway, mirroring a spaceship corridor. That may limit the longsword a bit.

[@carlosdumbratzen6332]

which gen are we talking about?

[@cyclonepr1me3]

This would be when you see the long swords true potential in its thrusting capabilities. After all they are great thrusting weapons compared to their curved counterparts.

[@Dingghis_Khaan]

That would be more of a handicap for an axe or spear than a sword.

[@daviddent5662]

@@carlosdumbratzen6332 TNT or DS9 I think. Discovery had a few fights with Bat'leths but none as grand as Worf's in DS9 and TNG. malja' Hutlh vay'vam!

[@inventor121]

​@@cyclonepr1me3 The main problem for that would be longswords getting lodged in the walls of a spaceship, or worse the electrical outlets and starting a fire. A spaceship corridor (on the ISS at least) could be defended by a single well placed round shield or an EVA pack. An armoured spacesuit is also fairly capable of shrugging off bullets, given the faceplate of atmospheric diving suits (these could also potentially work in space) is 4 inch thick bulletproof glass and can withstand over 600m of water pressure, for a bonus that's the weakest part of the suit. The reason we don't use it for Marines is that it alone weighs 300-400lbs and a space adapted combat version could weigh between 500-700lbs without the person inside. Cover that in chainmail and you won't be thrusting through it anytime soon. Instead combat will more or less be who can shove the other guys aside. Depending on the atmosphere inside a ship the mere act of firing a gun could ignite the atmosphere (80% or higher O2 atmosphere) so melee weapons are practical.

[@EphemeralTao]

I think the problem is relying on sword/axe styles really don't use the bat'leth to its advantage. Reach is definitely an issue; but with the right technique it should have been possible to gain a better control over an opponents sword/spear, particularly using that fork between the points. Rushing in with a faster block/parry and counterattack rather than staying at distance would make the weapon more effective. It's also clearly designed for CQB in restrictive spaces. It's not going to shine on an open battlefield vs. longswords and spears; but in close quarters (where longswords and 2-handed axes are at a disadvantage) against short swords, hand-axes, or maces it should be very effective.

[@1IGG]

Nah some nerds made some drawings and called it a weapon.

[@daviddent5662]

@@1IGG Gene Roddenberry wasn't 'some nerd' he was the greatest of all time. His reject book went on to be an entire series with fans to this day. be'nI''a'lIj DayajtaHvIS.

I wonder if it would be difficult to simulate fighting in a tight corridor, but in such way that you have a good view of the fight. Maybe with clear acrylic walls?

[@LuxisAlukard]

Or a net, or some light curtains? With weights to hold it in place, or something similar. I would like to see something like that!

[@bigolbearthejammydodger6527]

I second this motion! Id even allow arming sword rather than long sword, even arming sword and shield!

[@johndododoe1411]

Or multiple cheap cams along a wall in a real corridor. Edit together the ones with the best view at any moment.

[@tarrker]

Yes! Exactly. On the battle field it is easily out classed by longswords and polearms. But, wielding a longsword or a polearm in an enclosed space is a death sentence. So it makes sense that everyone on a starship would wanna use something like a bat'leth. It's a direct parallel to the Japanese katana. Another weapon that was designed for fighting indoors.

[@johndododoe1411]

@@tarrker There are other indoor suited weapons, like the rapier, gladius and small axe.

[@laudedbattlecry]

I feel like blade binding would be very important to batleth fighting. With how much leverage you have with that thing it seems like the technique for fighting something like a longsword would be to bind and then lever out of the bind into stabbing them with one of the wing spikes. Also with how much cutting surface there is it seems like a push would be very effective. You could shove into your opponents swing to try and disrupt their momentum and every time you do it they have to worry about getting cut with all that blade you’re throwing into them.

[@cakeboss4194]

I feel like the reason the Bat'leth in canon weighs such an ungodly amount is because it's a much heavier alloy than steel. Tungsten, perhaps? Probably for bludgeoning just as much as cutting, regardless. Plus, the thing seems to be built for grapple/knife-fight range, not longsword/polearm range, which implies it's best for situations where you don't have the room to flourish it's full length, such as the interior of a spaceship or inside a building. Another note, according to some google-fu, Bat'leth are typically made from some fictional metal called "baakonite", which is some variety of alloy. Honestly, though, I am of the opinion that melee combat becomes largely obsolete (In terms of large-scale warfare) by the time a species reaches orbit of their own world. Yes, sharp implements are good for survival, ceremonial purposes, and desperate CQC situations aboard a spacecraft, but by that point, I'd have a shotgun or a carbine and something a bit more efficient than a ceremonial scimitar-hooksword-deer horn knife hybrid meant for a 'locking horns' visual metaphor.

[@randomdude8202]

I largely agree, unless you encounter a hostile overwhelmingly relies on quantity. Like Tyranids from 40k. If you dont know what that is, imagine fighting ants as big as a large dog, but just as numerous as their smaller cousins.

[@rubaiyat300]

Given all the redundant organs and general toughness of Klingons (which is their real strength, Vulcans are probably actually physically stronger) That is probably a good take on the weapon.

[@ZarHakkar]

I'm not really sure about firearms when it means a missed shot could hit something vitally important on the ship or pierce the hull.

[@creanero]

To be fair, melee combat being obsolete is exactly what happens when they fight Starfleet/Bajoran personnel who are mostly sticking to phasers in the boarding action on DS9.

[@HypoceeYT]

Right on, it's very much a cultural/ceremonial weapon. It's a status marker, like a Shin Gunto. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXjSgox7gdxke8k Your sword might be stamped by the thousand with a painted plastic handle, but dammit you can't be an officer heir of the samurai without a sword. A fair number of Klingons seem to train in its martial art, for the same reasons people train in them despite guns being a thing in the real world. And occasionally, like in WWII, some weird circumstance leads to people actually using them. I don't know to what extent promotion/politics by assault and assassination is a thing for Klingons, similar to the interwar Japanese militaries or Larry Niven's Kzin (I remember a Known Space story or two was adapted to Star Trek episodes, with Klingons swapped in for the Kzin)...

[@r0ntuber]

As I was watching you spar, I was wondering: if the Bat'leth was held out in front, but perpendicular to the ground, if it would be more useful for blocking those side cuts with the sword. It seems that it could be easily moved side to side to block both high and low cuts coming from side that way.

[@AppliedMathematician]

Hm, if the outer edges of the Bat'leth where about twice as long, a lot of the positions with it would become much more threatening. But it is not lore compatible then.

[@shadekerensky3691]

Nah, lore-wise it'd be fine considering there were different styles of bat'leth.

[@CasparFalkenstein]

Just rememberes that....didn't they come up with different designs for newer installments of the franchise? With longer blades?

[@Defaulted123]

The longer the blades the higher the probably the risk to stab your self.

[@jurtheorc8117]

What if the Bat'leth had a slight recurve shape to it?

[@Centurian128]

There are Bat'leths with different patterns even before the new series took a shot at the design. I think of it like the gladius; there were several patterns in circulation but they were all the same kind of sword.

[@Wallbeige]

very cool, glad to see more videos on this topic. this type is my favorite just seeing how these weapons would go against each other

[@JV-ko6ov]

5 years from now, skallagrim becomes the first hema worldchampion that uses a Bat'leth

[@fluffypinksheep]

Your sparing partner is naturally gifted with any weapon

[@Pariah6950]

Really liking these sparring videos with your thoughts about certain weapons and such. A small suggestion from a nobody, I'd love to see a video going into the strategic element of fighting. There's a lot of talk about practice, techniques, experience, etc. But I've never seen someone talk about how to actually fight once you've got all that stuff. How do you make decisions? What are you thinking about during the fight? When is a good situation to us this technique or that, and how do you identify that? It would be great to hear that kind of thing from someone with years of experience.

[@matthewbarton1356]

I would say adopting a more aggressive and close-in style would make the Bat'leth more viable. That and time to get used to it and the motions. I have found that when training with a new weapon, given time it will show me the way it needs to be used. Also I can't believe that I am actually having a serious conversation about a Bat'leth... Well done, I have been a subscriber for years and have always enjoyed your work. Keep them coming!

[@TheSpongyMallard]

This whole Bat'leth series has been really interesting. Always more interesting to take pop culture weapons and testing them in sparing rather than only being a theory based on the design.

[@obsidiansands]

I've always thought that the Bat'Leth should be treated/used more of as a short staff type weapon than a sword type. The shorter reach, plus switching different hand-hold combos gives it more of a bladed staff than an outright sword vibe.

[@kristiannoel4866]

Another KZbinr made one of a 5' (1.5m) and maintained that it could be used as a quarterstaff type weapon.

[@obsidiansands]

@@kristiannoel4866 exactly, so basically calling it a "sword" would probably give most traditional users the wrong impression (and idea) of how to use it. From what little I've seen of Worf using it on the show, some of the stances and grips definitely were short-staff inspired rather than a two-handed or hand and a half traditional sword stances. The only time it was close to a classic sword grip was when they do overhead blows, though it seemed like an ax-handle grip more than a two-handed sword one.

[@Bond_alexander]

After your hands on sparring, what do you think of the suggestion that it might be best suited for armored combat? It seems like armor might minimize the reach disadvantage and make use of the forward curved point.

[@peternystrom921]

Exactly, whole test is flawed With armor

[@DiphonFX]

That’s my theory. If you look at half-swording in armor it basically bat’leth fighting. If you start to think of it as a can-opener and fighting someone in plate it makes a lot more sense.

[@camronchlarson3767]

Grappling is much more of a focus in armored combat and the batleth seems advantageous in gaining leverage to tip and throw your opponent as well

[@inventor121]

@@camronchlarson3767 leverage is also much more important in zero g combat since literally all you have is leverage. As for grappling it might not work so well considering you and your opponent will likely be in 2inch thick composite plate armour at the very least covering the entire body with practically no gaps.

[@HeadmasterAutobot]

Really digging the commentary on these sorts of videos. Hands-on exploration of fictional weapons feels like an underexplored avenue.

[@u06jo3vmp]

It's probably better for fighting in close quarters, for example in the corridor of a spaceship, where a longsword can easily hit the wall or something.

[@netyr4554]

I would be curious to see longsword in confined space sparring, imagine it becomes very pokey pokey as they try to use longsword like a rapier or short spear.

[@afriendofafriend5766]

stab

[@seadawg93]

Excellent point. Space cutlass.

[@beado2251]

You're making arguments for short swords and daggers. Not a bulky two handed piece of metal.

[@Axterix13]

@@beado2251 Shorter spears would be what I'd go for. In a corridor, that gives you side protection, and you really capitalize on the reach advantage.

[@empurress77]

I like that you've read the 1467 Fight book. Training would make a large difference in usage. Great series of videos on the Bat'leth!

[@davidlong3696]

I am not trying to be an Armchair Warrior, but it seems to Me that if You use the Klingon weapon to hook the longsword closer to the point,You could push it out,to the side,overhead, etc.,and close the gap while striking to the torso,abs or head.

[@tarrker]

Thanks for the video Skall! That was pretty cool! You guys did really good with that weapon even though you're not used to fighting with something like that. You wanna try to meet the strike point of your opponent's weapon with that double pointed end of the bat'leth and you both seem to get that pretty well. I can tell you've both been fighting a long time. ^_^ But, with a weapon like this, you pretty much have to completely change how you move your body around while fighting. When waiting for a strike you wanna hunch down so that your body is a smaller target and there's less ways for your opponent to sort of surprise you. Then, once you've met their weapon, use your body to strike the enemy while your weapon protects you. Either kick or body check them. The idea is to either make them stumble or knock them down completely so that you can come in for a finishing blow with your weapon while they're tripping or falling. It's just not a user friendly weapon and requires a TON of physical conditioning to pull of the techniques effectively. Also, it's not really meant for fighting someone with a polearm or a longsword. The bat'leth is most at home when being used against someone dual wielding short swords or daggers in an enclosed environment. In that regard, it's surprisingly comparable to a katana. Either way, thanks again man! This is exactly the sort of goofy, fun content I'd be making if my body wasn't so broken. So please keep them coming! :)

[@ObservantPiratePlus]

If you just kept advancing with the Batt'Leth you'd be able to consistently jam the long sword up. I had heard that the weapons designer that created the Batt'Leth was proficient with Chinese weapons techniques, and as a proponent of the Northern Shaolin tradition myself, I find it maps very nicely to such Chinese weapon techniques, when practicing with my aircraft aluminum Batt'Leth.

[@alfonsmuller2318]

Agreed!

[@artyombychkov2134]

Or jam it in

[@BernasLL]

Thought so too. Considering there's no developed system for it, and no one's consistently training with it, the Batt'Leth's a surprisingly good base design.

[@ScottGrow117]

Yes, I was saying the same, when you have a reach disadvantage, the only way you kill without getting killed is to smartly close that distance. Close the distance, press the bind, he has a giant edge and four points. Lots to work with there.

[@mikehammer3515]

Good video! I love fight analysis videos. I've been going to a HEMA class for a few months now...I have lots to learn.. I get a lot out of videos like these... keep it up bro👍..good stuff

[@bungeetoons]

What about Batleth vs the Fu Tao, or Tiger hook swords, if speed is a factor, then you'd likely want to be able to control your opponent's arm or atleast bind up whatever weapon :i.e sword or blaster you're facing.

[@fnord5]

That's kind of the technique I would think would work best, a flurry of fast sweeping motions, constant motion, keeping that reach advantage minimalized, and the constant movement will make it difficult to know what will be a feint, a strike or just part of the "dance"

[@datpudding5338]

Interesting to see. Great music choices for the sparring bits!

[@dony2852]

You should try to test out the duel between the Albino and Kang. The Albino had a carbine with bayonet vs Kang who had a traditional bat'leth.

[@zettor47]

Happy to watch more on this weapon, I wonder what other fantasy/sci-fi weapons you might do in the future. Nothing comes to my mind but I'm sure others have already suggested great stuff 😍

[@6ThreeSided9]

Something that really strikes me about the batleth is that it seems like it would be very flexible as a rushing weapon. If you charge your opponent and force them into defense, you can get very close where you have an advantage.

[@artix548]

Hey, Skallagrim! I've been a long time viewer, but I'm only just getting back into your videos. I had to actively search for them due to KZbin not recommending your channel.

[@NoahLoydOG]

From a purely observational standpoint, the Bat'leth (use notwithstanding) has seeming hallmarks of a more defensive weapon; a broad flat blade with large handguards, several hooks, and a general design that makes it an apparently underwhelming offensive weapon against something as simple as a straight sword. I assume that the Bat'leth has a very high skill ceiling, as presumably, someone skilled with it could simply rotate one end of the blade or the other up and completely cover almost their entire side from an incoming slanted or horizontal strike. Obviously, defense like this isn't the best offense, but, in theory, I would assume someone skilled at this sort of blocking and deflecting would be able to continuously advance upon and threaten their opponent while staying relatively safe. There would be more danger from thrusts (I feel like a Bat'leth would fare very poorly versus a spear), in which case the Bat'leth user would have to put in some footwork, but a thrust with a sword is forward momentum the Bat'leth could capitalize on, with a skilled deflection leading into either a strike to the arms or hands, or moving into closer range. If you do end up doing further testing, sparring or practice with the Bat'leth and notice anything along those lines, I'd certainly be interested to hear. I know I've spent a few hours thinking up ways a weapon like this could be competitive against regular martial weapons, and it certainly strikes me as odd that a weapon favored by such an aggressive and warlike species as the Klingons are would prize a weapon so much whose advantages are nearly all defensive in nature. It's a strange dichotomy.

[@daviddent5662]

"A defensive weapon" Says jang choraQ. Observe! kzbin.info/www/bejne/qou8iaewqrmerKc Proper form by one few species proven to have the worth to wield it. How much defense do you see compared to attack?

[@okashi6]

I would love to see you come up with some techniques and styles to use the bat’leth. I feel like it could be very versatile with its grip change

[@simkoning4648]

There is one real weapon that resembles the bat'leth. It's a Chinese weapon called the Heaven and Earth sword. Would love to see someone spar with those.

[@i-evi-l]

Good lord! I've done some HEMA for fun and lots of unarmed martial arts. I was skeptical of Skall's, aka your, ability in spar because of the awkwardness of the Batleth usage. Basically I attribute the awkwardness to NOT watching enough Worf Batleth Kata over the course of 2 Star Trek series, and that is perfectly okay. Then Skall picks up the Longsword, and HOOOWWEEEEH! That comfortableness of usage of the long sword is B-E-A-utiful to see! I haven't seen that level of precision in a long time of video watching. Bravo sir!

[@Saren-yc1rk]

Try it against shorter weapon than a longsword. Against a saber or an arming sword, or... you know... 2 sickles?

[@Endelfir]

would love to see you again in a good shape, cause it felt like that you were bit slower against your apponent, but when you got the longsword we could see your skill with that weapon which was very enjoyable! so have to say, love to see your vids and hope you keep to do them for the next years! greetings from austria! keep going on and show us more stuff like that!

[@tiltskillet7085]

Both of you using the Bat'leth looked twice as vulnerable once the other person started mixing in thrusts. Did that seem the case to you?

[@cetus835]

This was a very fun video to watch! God I love the longsword sparring videos.

[@hia5235]

Also consider that Klingons were fully armored. Glancing blows were not a concern.

[@daviddent5662]

maj! Armor is important as is taking into account Klingon's have very difficult to kill bodies unlike humans. Klingon brak'lul is unrivalled...other than by heretical tinkering with one's genes like cowardly peta'Q!

[@PenneySounds]

Fully armoured except the head. Their head armour is built in, and not showing your face to your opponent is dishonourable

[@leoprzytuac3660]

Aaight, I was waiting for this one. This is about to get interesting.

[@ThrawnFett123]

I think the "light" version is completely Canon acceptable for experimentation purposes if you're trying to account for Kilngons. They're on average taller and stronger than other average humanoids in universe. Reach is compensated for by their own natural reach advantages. Speed and strength in the same way. There are humans skilled in the Bat'leth as well, but thats like a master swordsman in his 60s beating a 20 year old upstart. Experience and mastery of techniques compensating. In this case, there's really not a lot of experience OR technique to fall back on, because it's not something that had 3 thousand years of design and battle, it has decades of screen time. I'm pleasantly surprised by how it's held up though, especially for something that was supposed to be for a fictional honor warrior culture.

[@Axterix13]

The size of Klingons compensating for reach doesn't compute, because this is a traditional Klingon weapon of antiquity. As in Klingon on Klingon fighting. So a Klingon with an appropriately sized spear or sword would have a reach advantage. And that counteracts speed and strength as well. You'd need some other factors at play, like a cultural bias towards cutting off heads (so edged weapons over piercing) and such. Situations where "honor" trumps practicality.

[@ThrawnFett123]

@Axterix13 I disagree on reach not being a factor. If your dagger and short sword could be answered, two things that almost always reappear (bayonet and combat knives in WW2). You may not reinvent the wheel so to speak. The "cultural bias" you mention may just be stagnation. It's "enough to win" and not much more but master it to win harder

[@lunarkomet]

Such cool sparring footage! You're great at sniping the hands like a cobra, but the other guy can really swing the longsword in a very elegant and fluid way

[@reaperwithnoname]

I feel like a fairer fight would be halfswording a longsword vs a batleth, since the batleth may be originally intended for closer quarters or even armoured combat.

[@TheManInBIack]

Nice content, Skall! It is so much entertaining to see these fantasy weapons being used in practice. Keep up the amazing work!

[@Ostsol]

Thinking of it as a judicial duel weapon sounds best. For actual war it seems like a ranged weapon and a combat knife would be far better. The Bat'leth is simply too bulky to be practical as a standard carry-weapon and it's not clear how one would construct a sheath or scabbard for it. For a ritual duel between troop commanders or between rivals? Sure, bring it out, but that's quite different than normal combat on the battlefield. This might not be official canon, but it makes sense.

[@ThatRPGuywithtoomanyOCs]

That's pretty much canon. In lore, the Batleth was an early weapon that goes back centuries. As their technology evolved, it became a weapon of honor and for duals to defend said honor(with honor being a MASSIVE part of Klingon culture). At the stage the shows take place, it's literally the equivalent to a dueling sword. You don't take a dueling sword to a gun fight, to take it to a duel against someone else with a dueling sword.

[@sulljoh1]

I love that somebody did this. Awesome work

[@natebaldree1937]

I think you might be using it the wrong way. Considering the defense and trapping abilities, this actually feels like a rush and grape weapon. Maybe try to change the mindset. You are definitely trying to use it like a sword. I do wish the prong area was deeper for that purpose .

[@quest4adventure495]

There was some absolutely fantastic longsword work in this video.

[@StevenHouse1980]

That was a very low static defence, the mid grip is used for spining/fliping the blade to confuse the opponent as to the angle of attack vs deflection, combined with a more robust shifting foot work. Geting the opponent off balance and up close enough for a clasic basic fist punch, adding disorentating/distraction effects. Dissarming with the blade prongs or overly agressive deflection, added in if needed for defence, but for display perpuses leading up to a full force power move, for a killing blow. Sweeping the back of a leg forceing the opponent down on to there back provides grater access to vital targets with reduced defence.

[@Defaulted123]

That's right. The fighting style being used here doesn't fit at all to the BatLeth.

[@youremakingprogress144]

Great breakdown of the subject material, and I think it was wise to start with the sparring this time to shake up the usual order of things.

[@LizBlizzard]

One thing that works very against the bat'leth is the context it would be used in. It's a two-handed weapon that's not as easy to carry as you do everyday tasks as a longsword. So it would either be used in battle, or for duels scheduled ahead of time (not spur of the moment "we both have swords with us, let's draw and settle things right now"). In the battlefield, people wear armor. This renders the bat'leth almost useless, at least compared to a longsword, or the two-handed weapon that someone would actually be using in battle as their primary (polearm, ranged weapon, etc), while the longsword sits pretty on their belt. For duels scheduled ahead of time, the bat'leth is slightly better...but still falls short. You might not have full plate to wear to the duel, but even just gauntlets or a shield/buckler to go with your sword eliminates 80% of the threat you'd face from the bat'leth. Not to say anything of gambesons, hauberks, thick boots, and whatnot. Overall, I still feel like a bat'leth would not have found a niche in real combat, if it was developed in the real world. You could say "but culture and tradition says bat'leths should only ever face other bat'leths in a duel, not swords and and shields!" but then you'd be completely skipping the "why was it made in the first place, if the other options are just plain better?" aspect, and just saying "it exists, for whatever reason. And it also worked it's way into having culture and tradition behind it, somehow. And this exact culture and tradition is the only thing keeping it relevant, for these traditional duels and nothing else, even if other weapons would be better suited for the job."

[@sackofclams953]

It is heavy and it has those pointy bits at the end so maybe it’s a grapply anti armor thing?

[@tarille1043]

I think you're underestimating the damage capacity of the bat'leth when saying gauntlets, gambesons, hauberks and thick boots can nullify its threat... For a start, most duels were unarmoured. Second, given the pick-like points to focus force, a bat'leth would fare BETTER than a sword against armour as it would puncture through gambeson and potentially mail while sword slashes and cuts would be rendered moot by such things.

[@grimnir8872]

Not entirely, the Bat'leth still has very sharp points, and looks to be very good at grappling, so you could thrown an armored enemy to the ground and stab his vitals.

[@williamjenkins4913]

"In the battlefield, people wear armor. This renders the bat'leth almost useless, at least compared to a longsword" I highly disagree with this take. It is forward weighted with a spike making it almost a war pick. In close it literally is made to "halfsword" which would be the longswords answer to armor. Also you are looking at battles IRL. In fiction the batleth was used in mine tunnels and hallways. I dont know how that would affect the analysis but most people forget to include tight spaces in their break down.

[@robkrieg8301]

I dont see why it wouldnt penetrate armor with the points. Tbh if you got inside on a person with a longsword with it you could hook legs etc.. i don't think you could consistently win vs a longsword but i can see you taking it 4/10.

[@terrancemurphy3107]

I keep thinking of Worf's instructions to Alexander. "Make it part of your hand...part of your arm." Cool character line aside, that suggests a versatility that would be inherent to Klingon martial arts, likely a dexterity to match. While I completely understand the need for the safety gloves being worn for protection while sparing I can't help but think they are limiting a more agile and unpredictable use of the weapon. Plus, the traditional weapons being used have long established techniques unique to each. Fictionally the bat'leth has over a thousand of years of history for techniques to develop. Techniques that can only be guessed at (What's the Gaiden Shinji quote? "The best techniques are passed on by the survivors"?). It would be hard to not just unintentionally adapt existing styles for similar weapons.

[@pyeitme508]

Woah 😳

[@TheOmnalink]

The only thing I can contribute in this case is a specific grip. Hold it vertically with dominate hand at the top of the highest point of the handle with your hand "resting" at about face level. And treating it sort of like a spiked shield. That you can move the weapon around and yourself indipendently. While maintaining side stance to keep a thin profile

[@betterworldproject9736]

Honestly got to say you did the bat'leth dirty. How you used it really shows unfamiliarity, which is more on you than the weapon. sadly we need someone who took the time to train it to see its actual ability. Shadiversty put it best the weapon is freaking versatile and this just wasn't shown due to using the weapon as a shield or a sword. Holding it vertically and horazantily doesn't help when it should be held at an angle to best use its two-end nature.

[@Buxt8224]

This is why I love you skall. You give oxygen to my nerdy fantasies

[@robertagu5533]

Looking like a skilled Longsword human COULD present a problem for a Klingon warrior here. A Master or TRULY Lethal Human would be able to take them out relatively easily. BUT here we're seeing another Longsword here. A true test would be against all kinds of weapons. Notable other swords. Doubt TRULY skilled Samurai would fight the same. An fencers with rapiers Jins, Various shield an sword combos, Scythe fighters, various axes, an tomahawk/ knives/sword combos... Lead me to believe there's PLENTY that would give Klingons pause if they knew the Human was especially good with it. An we KNOW Trek had to have a few like we here how the various spear/staff types are so VERY GREAT weapons in general. Something like this basic Klingon version is the perfect test.

[@Suthriel]

The problem with Klingons is, they are well armored and really sturdy. Not sure, how much damage those hits would do to a real Klingon (or how much more you would need to really take one out), with or without his usual armor. They are basically natural tanks :)

[@robertagu5533]

@@Suthriel I feel that but there's plenty similarities an even Worf took relative beatings that plenty Humans could ALSO take an still live. Same for being debilitated. Having similar body types means there's specifics that hold true for ALL species. I imagine, if a Klingon took one of those Axe or Warhammer shots to the head, especially at full power just like a Human they'd either get decapitated or their skull smashed in too. Or at the least be quite badly hurt is my guess. Similarly getting a spear through the face or throat I imagine would prove guaranteed as a fatal to a Klingon or anything else is similar evolution as a person. Jus let some of my guesses

[@ColdNorth0628]

@@Suthriel always challenge a klingons honor when they wear armor while you do not. They will take the insult and rip off their armor and yell "For the honor of House [insert house]" and then you can just yoink him with lashes.

[@erikodinson9288]

Neither are masters of the batleth both are very good with the long sword so I think you're wrong

[@ORLY911]

I think the key to batleth is aggression and closing the distance. It's a weapon to deflect and wrestle down your opponent usually in an enclosed space, using normal sparring positioning won't work for it.

[@Krystalmyth]

You're only getting hit by the sword because it flexes around the batleth when parried.

[@michaeldavies47]

Bat'leth techniques, in canon at least, are derived from a martial arts form called the MoQ'bara. In real life, the MoQ'bara was choreographed based on Tai Chi with more aggressive elements added in.

[@pottervi]

I love these videos. Fantasy weapons vs actual tools. It's awesome

[@kleeklee4572]

I’ve really been enjoying this series on this weapon. You should try other fake fantasy/sci-fi weapons and have them match up against their real world counter part. This is fun and done well. Thanks for the entertainment!

[@TheMsLourdes]

I am not, by any means a sword expert, I have swung some swords here and there. My feeling however, is that the bat'leth seems designed for charge and helical type attacks, but the big thing is that there is no real fighting style (as you said) for the Bat'leth, and that hesitation of 'how do I use this' really co0mes into play. It might be worthwhile trying to come up with techniques for it? That would make a great series of videos in fact.

[@muselessmusician]

This looked like so much fun! I would suggest trying again against the longsword with the Bat'leth held vertically instead of horizontally, as it seems (from the observer, I know it's different in the helmet) that a lot the long low cuts could be easilly countered with a dump block, but still.....I NEED one of these in my life!!

[@rakatika]

I freaking love watching these! Can't wait to watch this asap

[@TheNinjaOfChrist]

I have to say I'm liking your videos alittle more then shad though I watch all of the videos from u and shad y'all talk and do the same stuff I enjoy but able to make videos to teach ppl like us about the reality of it keep up the good work

[@mleav2]

It looks like there should be a way to take advantage of the batleth shape and openings to capture and twist or leverage the long sword, gaining some control over the sword, to disarm, or maneuver in closer for a hand or knife strike.

[@lcb1250]

I've sparred bat'leth vs. sword several times and I realized quickly that you HAVE to be aggressive and get in close asap. Whether it was through a fake, weapon deflection/destruction, cover and crash, or a combo of those, I discovered I needed to close the distance and dominate the opponent's space right away. If not, I'd easily get tagged.

[@AdmiralBlackstar]

Watching this, it makes me think perhaps the design is to encourage close-up fighting, to really get up in someone's face during the clashing of blades, get that romanticized trade of verbal barbs in, growl at them, get the scent of fear wafting off your opponent, i.e. things Klingons would love, but still have a way to finish them off as well.

[@ianburns1167]

This is really cool. I'd love a follow up at some point when you have time to think and practice, if you're intrested. The big issue I'm seeing is stance. You're holding the Batleth on the far two grips, completely horizontal, and that takes away from its best quality of combining defense and offense while also radically shortening your reach. I'd also suggest using blocks as an opportunity to close and then following through with an attack from the many angles and distances a Batleth gives you.

[@GR-cf4qh]

It's amazing that a weapon whose design and use was developed over thousands of years would outperform one envisioned as a TV series prop.

[@IrocZIV]

This makes me think a series about designing and testing weapons could be fun.

[@FuzzyMarineVet]

From my observations of your sparring, it seems the best way to use a Klingon Bat'leth against a long sword is to bind the sword blade between two points and control it while you move in with the opposite points to strike.

[@olivier.st-amand]

The experience and reach issues are, I think, more important than you gave them credit for. I don't think people can fight with Bat'leth by standing and waiting for attacks. I assume that in a real fight, someone with a Bat'leth would always rush in very very close, making those four sharp bits much more useful, negating the long sword's reach. But if we fight with a Bat'leth in a typical "sparring" attack-parry, it just won't work (unless we significantly extend the outermost "blades"). If you guys wanna give it another go, I'd really like to see a Bat'leth weilder always rushing the long sword! Thanks for the vid!

[@TimeKitt]

I'm seeing a lot of strong, 90 degree blocks from the bat'leth. It's a big strong motion, but I think its massive overkill. You get caught up going all in for one very good block, letting their sword bounce away and swing around from another direction. I think maybe it could use more trying for deflection and control, keeping the sword to one side while you step in. Stepping back, like you said, is the wrong choice for a shorter reach weapon. They don't need to be afraid of you if you are never close enough to hit them in the first place. But this is couch level analysis, I have neither a bat'leth trainer nor the knees for consistent sparing anymore.

[@Tyr666Thor]

The shorter reach is certainly an issue when up against a longsword or Lirpa yeah. We do see klingons with weapons equivilent to our longswords in a couple of episodes. I do wonder if the bat'leth's reletive shortness and focus on defence and weapon locks/grappling would serve it well in trench warfare or ship boarding? Ship boarding is where we see it most often used and we know from first hand accounts that longer swords where at a disadvantage against shorter weapons in the cramped confines of ships and trenches.

[@rossmaclean2]

I love this style of video. excellent work.

[@tarkajedi3331]

My favorite episodes by far... Very innovative!!! Really fascinating.... Try to fight indoors say in a corridor... More grappling, kicking and controlling their blade... more flanking???

[@remingtonlamey3464]

Would love more sparing vids. Especially with the batleth against a weapon with a more comparable range

[@Velshard]

This was actually very interesting, thanks for sharing.

[@OwO-mx8uv]

FINALY, always wanted to see these two

[@stcredzero]

I wonder if the Bat'leth could be adapted to various weapons techniques in Aikido for disarming and grappling with weaponed opponents? These techniques might be particularly hard to perform against longsword and rapier, as these weapons seem to be optimized for rapidly disengaging or rapidly changing the direction of attack, respectively.