Counter Cutting with Longsword

Against the Fendente: In the first class we explore the mechanics of three types of counter cuts and how they can be delivered against the fendenti.

Responses and Counters: Now that we understand how to cut through an opponent’s sword as they attack us, how do we protect ourselves as the attacker? In this weeks’ class we explore three methods we can use to respond safely to the counter cut: yielding, binding, and deceiving.

Targeting the Hands: Counter cutting does not always need to be used as a cut through the blade of the opponent, you can also target the hands or arms of an attacker to arrest their attack and immediately deliver a wound. In this week’s class we look at the vulnerabilities an opponent might present on their hands as they cut from above or below.

Protecting the Hands: We look at how to keep our hands safe. Cutting in proper order and using good position will keep the hands protected as we send our sword forward toward the opponent.