Confluence: Swords, Susan Dexter

[keilexandra]

Since I rewrote this neatly by hand in my notebook and everything, I might as well post it here, even though it's been almost a month since the con. But be forewarned: my notes are terribly incomplete, particularly regarding modern-day fencing. In bullet form.

Swords
Susan Dexter
Come see a collection of blades, including fencing foils and masks/gloves/jackets. Learn about what kind of blades a sword fighter would use, and when he or she would use it.

• pointy stick --> bronze --> iron
• not heavy
• Epee: French, stiff, stabbing weapon
• Foil: bendy, torso target (fencing), stabbing weapon
• Saber: curved, waist-up target
• Rapier: many hilts/lengths (e.g. swept hilt), gauntlets+crosspiece/crossguard protect, foible=weakest part, may be used w/ round wooden shield/buckler+matching dagger
• Broadsword: one/two-handed hilt, hacking/defending/punching on horseback
• Gladius: v. short, used behind shield
• sounds: ting, slither
• "physical chess," intimidation game
• different blade patterns/folding marks (not Japanese folding)
• medieval occupational hazard for war horses - ear accidentally lopped off
  

Fencing Moves

• bind: spiral counterattack
• parry: sweep deflect
• bolestro (sp?): hop+lunge
• short vs. tall opponent - stay inside reach
• loose hand behind back or as counterbalance
• leftys have advantage
• don't watch sword, watch eyes