Parry Repost: Issue #1
“We parry the noise. You get the repost.”
Welcome to Parry Repost, a newsletter for rapier fencers. We slice through the latest videos, blog chatter, and latest news, then curate it all for you to enjoy. Whether you train solo or coach a club, you’ll find actionable ideas and maybe a smirk or two.
✨ Featured Cut
Technique Leak: Overcoming Issues in Cross-Weapon Fencing – Capitale Escrime Historical Fencing
A fascinating article from Jim Emmons, from Capitale Escrime Historical Fencing, discussing how the techniques of the broadsword had “leaked” over into their rapier training. There are so many aspects of fencing, styles, and weapons, it makes me wonder how many “leaks” have made it through my own studies. Time for another technique audit!
🗡 Take Action: It never hurts to double check our technique. As mentioned in the article, drilling each weapon or aspect of fencing with special attention given to techniques specific to each could reveal “leaks”.
📜 Treatise Spotlight – “The Aim of Fencing”
Capo Ferro’s Focus on Defense in Great Representation of the Art and Use of Fencing
Very early in The Art of Fencing, Capo Ferro summarizes a few thoughts on what the “aim of fencing” is, as follows…
The aim of fencing is the defense of self, from whence it derives its name; because “to fence” does not mean other than defending oneself, hence it is that “protection” and “defense” are words of the same meaning; whence one recognizes the value and the excellence of this discipline is such that everyone should give as much care thereunto, as they love their own life, and the security of their native land, being obligated to spend that lovingly and valorously in the service thereof.
Thence it is also seen that defense is the principal action in fencing, and that no one must proceed to offense, if not by way of legitimate defense.
Capo Ferro doesn’t mince words: the aim of fencing is defense. Offense only comes as “legitimate defense.” That emphasis stuck with me, especially when I see fencers charge into the fray like it’s a tavern brawl. You may score the point, but if you're sprawled on the ground afterward, who really won?
🗡 Drill Idea: I heard it said once, “…in fencing, you really only have four choices: Block, Attack, Move, or Die. Pray you don’t choose the latter.”
Ask your partner to throw an attack. Pause. Think: what are your real defensive options here? Should I block, move, or counter? Pick one. Walk through it slowly together, then ramp up to full speed. Switch roles.
🛠️ Drill Resource
Scholars of Alcala Drill Books and Posters – Scholars of Alcala
The Scholars of Alcala have gathered together a number of resources, but I have really been enjoying their Drill Books and Posters, covering a variety of styles and disciplines.
Though still in draft, the L'Ange Rapier Drill Book May 2025 Preview is definitely worth a look. Their footwork breakdown alone is clean, clear, and immediately usable.
⚔️ Melee Scenario: “The Bridge Standoff”
Setup: A narrow “bridge” zone 2 meters wide, 6–8 meters long. Mark it with cones or tape. Split into two teams, each starting at opposite ends.
Objective: Control the bridge by eliminating or pushing back the other team. First team to eliminate all opponents or hold the bridge uncontested for 20 seconds wins.
Rules:
Respawns: None. Double kills eliminate both fighters.
Edges count: Stepping off the bridge = out.
Optional twist: After 2 minutes, a “reinforcement” enters for the team with fewer fighters.
🗡 Battle Note: In such tight spaces, each fighter will need to rely on their team mates to supplement their defense and keep them alive.
🎯 Practice Pointers
For Individuals:
Drill your blade and footwork together and not as separate skills. For example, practice your lunge with blade extension in sync. Film it. Check for lag.
For Club Leaders:
Run a group warm-up where everyone picks a “favorite target” and explains why. It reveals both tactical habits and weaknesses.
🔗 Quick Hits
Academy of Historical Fencing offers a bunch of great PDFs to download. I’d recommend starting with the AHF Rapier Workbook and the Fencing Manual. I’m a sucker for great illustrations.
Woody’s Fencing Clips presents a quick answer to the question, How to Dagger Parry.
💬 Final Riposte
That’s it for Issue #1. There’s a lot of steel flying around out there. Thanks for letting me cut through the noise. More to come. Keep your edge.
— Rowan Gray