Blossfecten , “bare fighting” is the technique of fighting without significant protective armour such as plate or mail.

Our School focuses on the Longsword, Dagger and Wrestling of the Liechtenauer tradition of the 15th century (Early New High German).

The principal weapon of our Blossfecten stream is the Longsword. A longsword primarily used tow handed with a straight, double edged blade around 120-130cm in total length and weighing around 1.5-2 kg. It was a relatively fast and nimble weapon able to cut and deliver devastating thrusts.

For modern practice we use copies of historical training sword that have blunt edges but weigh and handle like a normal sword. We also use updated fencing masks and other protective equipment for reasons of safety and practicality. Students will learn the basic attacks, counters and techniques to develop their understanding of historical swordsmanship, before progressing onto their first grading to ‘Apprentice’. After this, students are able to progress to free-play and eventually competitions if they are so inclined.

The Blossfecten class also includes the use of the dagger and a variety of wrestling techniques.