21 Foot Rule - Drawing the Sword for Self Defence - Sabre
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- Опубликовано: 15 окт 2024
- Drawing the weapon in a self defence scenario is far from a new problem. Here we consider what it would have been like to apply the principals studied today for law enforcement defence, but placed in a historical context and when carrying a sword.
This is not a scientific or conclusive piece of research, just a brief look into the subject. Many more videos will follow looking at different scenarios. weapons
and belts etc.
NOTE - the fencer who was drawing the sabre did not always draw the cut through completely as he would for real. This was largely out of necessity for safety with an untipped blade. The object of the exercise was to find the distances at which one could defend oneself and not test cutting skill.
As a former law enforcement, your definition of the 21 foot rule is correct. In a future scenario, I would recommend using a multiple possible assailants, at least 3, spread out in a semi-circle at 21 ft, Only one attacks, but the defender does not which one, forcing him/her to try and maintain awareness of all possible threats. This extra step will slow down the reaction time of the defender. Other factors can be added in, like screaming and yelling and threatening feints by people, etc. This simulates an angry crowd. The only thing that cannot be simulated is the surprise attack. In this video the defenders know they are going to be attacked, in real life they only know they have the possibility of being attack, forcing them to spend a lot of nervous energy on maintaining awareness. Anyway, these types of scenarios were used in my cop training, and I thought they might be useful to you. Cheers.
+Samuel Tyree We'll definitely give the multiple possible assailants a try soon. Thanks for your input.
+Academy of Historical Fencing
Can you do a video about battons?
Any experience with those?
Blunt vs sharp weapons and such?
+Øath Betrayer pretty much anywhere in America
The twenty one foot rule was debunked decades ago. Do not advise people to use it as a defense in a court of law. The distance is relative based on the physical ability of the assailant. An example would be a 96 year old vs a track athlete that could run a hundred meters in nine seconds. The reaction time would be different for the justification for the use of force based on the present ability difference between these assailants. Never rely solely on distance. I’m a 35 year LEO veteran. I was an instructor in tactics,self defense and firearms for over thirty years and have testified in state and federal court on use of force matters.
I really liked the focus on using lateral movement to create the needed space to get a cut in/ draw your sword. I also really liked how you mentioned that using your open hand is sometimes the better initial defensive option in comparison to attempting to draw your weapon
Without having seen all the tests, just the examples you've shown us, it almost seems as if you're safer in this specific circumstance against an attacker with a bayonet than a sword - which seems most dangerous of all insofar as you have the least number of viable options to defend yourself - which is not the result I was expecting. It looks like the motion of drawing the sword leads pretty naturally to a beat using the strong of the blade, and when combined with stepping off line, usually leaves the swordsman safe from the initial attack and in relatively good position for the next exchange against the bayonet.
+100thlurker Indeed, this is largely because of the rush that the bayonet user has to make to get to you before you can draw. A real musket/rifle with bayonet is heavier and more unwieldy again so it is hard to change direction. The attack is therefore more predictable than had it been from a normal attack at distance from fixed footing. It also often results in the bayonet user closing the distance beyond what he would want to.
Additionally most bayonets have an elbow, the drop from socket to blade. In Roworths treatise he specifically encourage the sword to engage at that elbow. It will further provide leverage to the swordsman. Personally if I was to have anyone of the three rushing me, I would want the bayonet. Because he has limited options and if he closes too far he looses many of his advantages.
In many regards the knife is the most terrifying, because the attacker knows he has to close and will often approach with more determined aggression than if he had a sword, as it is a perceived disadvantage that a knife attacker will adjust to.
I live in the US and while this isn't common, I can recall seeing at least two people (non-military) carrying swords around town.
Interesting video! Makes me curious how much quick-draw techniques can shorten this distance, such as Japanese Iaijutsu and whatever Western equivalents may be...
We also have this in FMA 😀 Its part of our firearms training in kali. Its taught in 2-parts: our 21 Foot Rule is really just a theory that 'even in 21 feet, the sword/knife (or any melee weapon, really) is still effective.' While, what is shown in the video, we call it Breaking the 21 Foot Rule. Its making sure that we dont get hit, even in that range.
Its still amazing how martial arts from around the world tend to have the same dynamics, even if there are differences in training and mindset. Great video 👍
This is undoubtedly one of your most fascinating and innovative video series so far.
This aspect of how the weapon was used in it's historical context, particularly in a realistic civilian role, is really quite interesting and often overlooked.
I would love to see more videos like this one on your channel and I'm sure that there would be wide interest from your viewers both within and outside of HEMA.
This is some amazing and well composed research. I definitely enjoyed the video.
How would the defender do against an unexpected attacker?
For example: Have a semi-circle of attackers in front of the attacker, and secretly tell one of them to attack for this test?
+Qorhtomh Thanks. Having multiple people in shot with an unknown attacker is something we will definitely do soon. This is such a massive subject to cover, that it will require quite a number of videos to cover. I hope to put together a few more like it over the holidays.
At my age (67) no one gives a glance at my cane. Though I don't actually need it, I never leave home with out it. I've recently upgrade to a sword cane designed and built by "Cold Steel", my only objection is the handle isn't a hook. One can elect to utiluze it while still in it scabbord which is basically a piece of aluminum pipe or pull it out thus the ability to slash gash and or stab. I no longer live in the U.S where they do a good job of policing and enforcing dogs. Here in Mexico were the possesion of a any fire arm is not only extremely regulated, it's highly enforced, especially on non citizens. Unlike America, farrow dogs are everywhere and sometimes number more than one. Though there are laws governing dogs, they are never enforced. The use of a leash by any one with a pet is rare, let alone a farrow dog. Though I've utilize it on numerous occasions to thwart off a canine or two, and on one occasion a would be lone robber, I've never actually ever had to brandish the sword, but it's nice knowing it's there should a more serious occasion ever arise.
Well conducted research! Interesting video.
Great video, a subject that is very rarely discussed I think, but one which is vitally important if you were carrying a sword in civilian context. You can also try to have combination of a sword and a dagger in different positions. Dagger tucked at the back, on the side same as sword, opposite etc.
+dmytroy Check out our new video on the rapier in a similar setup and you will see the dagger being worn and drawn in such scenarios.
+Academy of Historical Fencing there is some mention of the quick draw as a skill in the folklore surrounding Broadsword fencing, although it isn't included in any manuals. Our club, and the Cateran Society practices this as a trained skill. The most successful technique in this case that we've found is to draw the sword into a hanging guard and parry then riposte. If you were being attacked at a closer distance, the response I use is usually to parry with a hanging guard. Using a timing cut as they come in is much slower, and places you in danger. The hanging guard from the draw can also be used with slipping the leg to buy a little more time and make distance, or with a traversing step, especially to the right where you end up in a wide stance by stepping the lead foot to the right and then follow with the left foot back to a narrow stance as you do a cut to the inside (1,3,5 or 7). This gives you extra time and if you traverse your opponent will be off the line of defense.
+Academy of Historical Fencing and using a hanging guard is also really useful if you want to grapple or command his sword arm safely.
+Javan Maes Yep, hanging guard is one of the strongest and best things to use against those who are closing on you, whether from the draw or in the fight. We have consistently found the same. Only risk against a dagger fighter is that you can't risk going for the parry as they will be on top of you. The blade length means their engaging distance is just so short. Also, with a strong substantial dagger, they can close against the hanging guard and actually parry many cuts that can be delivered with it, particularly if they get to the forte.
Academy of Historical Fencing that makes sense! Nice video, it's cool to see this kind of experiment that was filmed well!
This great. I have practiced Japanese iaido and have always wondered if Europeans had the same quick-draw considerations, skills. They must have, but historical particularities perpetuated this training in Japan.
Very interesting stuff! Food for thought.
Have you guys tried half swording with the sabre as a means of controlling the arm holding the one handed weapon and simultaneously thrusting the face or neck? In my mind that would be both strong on the defense (especially to prevent multiple stabs) and offense. Also, at very close range, is punching in the face with the but of the handle a good option? Perhaps this works best when drawing the weapon sharp-side up, is this doable with the current configuration?
Looking forward to more content like this!
I would love to see some different stances after the draw.
- point in line (you dont necessarily need to cut with a sabre, it's pointy...)
- drawing while retreating
- possibly more
One thing I wonder about that you sort of touched on with the partial draw defense is the idea of using the scabbarded blade for the initial defense move.
The Korean sword art that I'm learning has a lot of techniques that begin with blocks before drawing the blade
+Brendan McKenna Very cool. For most European swords this wouldn't be really possible, as typically the scabbard is fixed in its mounts and has little room to move. We did experiment with the idea of parring off an incoming blade with the scabbard, but the range of movement on ones side made it quite limited.
+Academy of Historical Fencing Something with an over the shoulder- cross chest kind of hanging belt (baldric?) would seem to allow for it, but I don't know how common that kind of thing would have been.
Eastern (or at least Japanese/ Korean) styles seem to be based on the sword and scabbard both being carried in hand or stuck in but not fastened to the belt
I would think that a 25 inch cutlass would work perfect for this sort of exercise. Drawing and striking could probably be done in one motion very effectively
Very interesting. Looking forward to more on the subject!
Stepping off the line is the way to get the time to react
Great video! I've heard of the 21 foot rule, and was interested to see it tested in this manner. I look forward to seeing this with rapiers! It probably takes a bit of practice to draw one of those monsters in a timely manner.
+skwerldeath We did a load of tests this evening with rapier. Initially it seemed slow but with a bit of practice it was quite surprising how fast it can be. However, there is always a risk of getting snagged on the draw with such long blades as will be shown on the video coming soon.
Outstanding! Can't wait to see that vid! I think it's great that you are interested in the art beyond just a modern sparring exercise. I appreciate your making these videos.
Depends on your holster and reaction time. I use a front opening (clamshell) so I don't draw up but forward. I can get a good shot off in 10'.
The 21 feet rule is supposed to be a suprised attack the officer being relaxed this is why in some scenarios de defender is not facing the attacker.
How much more difficult would it be with a longsword? Would this be a time to use it one-handed?
P.S. those slow-mo draw sounds are so cool :D
+Robert R We will be making a similar video about longsword in the next few days. I shot a lot of footage with rapier tonight which there will also be a video on. Simple answer though, longer the weapon, slower and more difficult the draw, and yes some one handed techniques will become a necessity.
Very interesting! It seems to me sword defenses might be slightly faster than handgun defenses, since you don't have to pull a trigger, particularly you don't need to fire two shots.
The spinning part was interesting - usually spinning around seems like a bad idea to me, because having your back to your opponent is not usually a great idea. If your opponent is off balance, it might let you get the sword out quicker and with more power, but if not, they may hit you while you are turned?
+Blake Winter Yes I believe the safe distance generally will be a little shorter with a sword than a handgun. I think there are a few reasons for this. First, aim time is a consideration, whereas the sword draws naturally into a strike with far less effort. I also think many opponents slow up towards the very end because of the threat and intimidation of the blade, being a hand-to-hand rather than ranged weapon. Also we assume only one strike, as opposed to two shots.
The spinning element was something that Kim just responded with. In these drills we sometimes asked for something specific of those taking part, and other times let them do what came naturally. I think in the occasion he did it, it worked well. Because his attacker leapt at him and he passed of that fast action with his hand and spin, and this would have left his attacker extremely off balance. Even though he had a wall to stop him here, he was still not able to recover quickly. It wouldn't work against a slower opponent with better balance.
Really at that sort of distance, you would have to rely on your open hands or open hand and dagger for defence. This will be covered in the rapier draw video that is going live today.
Very interesting. We will have to add this into our training
That is a great study! I wonder what the success rate would be with a trekking tool such as, shepherds cane, fokos, or walking cane since they are not strictly weapons of war but would be already in the defender's hand.
I know I'm about 6 years late. But I was sent this as 'proof' that swords are better self-defense weapons than concealed handguns. This can be true in some circumstances though I would argue that a concealed handgun has many benefits regardless. But that's beside the point.
The 21-foot 'rule' isn't something that was studied scientifically or has any basis in research. Rather it came about as a result of one Mr. Tueller. A law enforcement officer who was training with some of his crew on a shooting range wanted to see how fast someone could cross 21 feet. They found they could do so in about 1.5sec.
Mr. Tueller then published an article on the potential dangers of being caught unaware and being attacked by an edged weapon. With the example that 21 feet don't allow for much time to react. So Mr. Tueller encouraged officers to take up martial arts, use verbal commands, and practice moving and shooting.
At this point, a bunch of "tactical" magazines began claiming this was an FBI study. Some law enforcement officers took this distance and article to mean that officers are justified in shooting people that might be armed with a weapon like a club or a knife at 21 feet due to the dangers involved.
The reality is that most self-defense shootings involving police and self defense in general tends to be at distance of less than 10 feet for about 80% of cases.
Indeed the rule got blown way out or proportion over time, but it is a really interesting base structure with which to consider swords in their use in their historical setting, as opposed to a modern one. More than anything I think the exercises teach those practicing them an awful lot about the potential reality of how an attack might unfold and they are often very surprised by certain aspects, especially the need to be comfortable using your bare hands, for you might not ever be able to employ the weapon otherwise.
Iai draw-cuts may not be as strong, but it would be good as a warding off, combined with first strike setting up with a more powerful cut.
I think this is the case in which the Katana could be one of the best swords.
+derFaust Anything which is fast and easy to draw. Any substantial hand protection interferes with getting a grip on the weapon, though obviously has it's advantages in defence. One thing to consider though is that the shorter the blade you have, the closer you will have to let the opponent get before striking. That may not seem like a big deal, but you don't want a charging knife fighter getting close.
Personally my overall preference for a sword that had to be used in this sort of self defence scenario would be something like the British 1804 pattern cutlass. With a 29-30" blade, it is about the same blade length as many katana. Shorter grip that allows better rotational strikes, and with a nice bit of hand protection, but little that gets in the way during the draw.
Academy of Historical Fencing
Yes, you are right and there may be some other swords, wich are even a little bit better in this case than the Katana, but to Katana-fanboys on the one hand and those who say Katanas are completly crap on the other hand, you can show both sides very well in what situations a sharp Katana made really good sense, while in a duell with drawn weapons it is in many cases a bad choise.
+derFaust Indeed. Certainly the katana will be better on the draw than a great many sword designs. As we go onto the draw with longsword and rapier this will become even more apparent due to their sheer size.
It would be interesting to see the sword in the scabbard used to deflect/strike without drawing at close quarter.
thank you for perfect video! One point human going at you with knife and dedicated to tke you out it instintictively going to keep stabing until you go down this repeated attacks are not exception they are rule keep that in mind until stopped (could be kind of hard with sword) the knifeguy is still the threat.
Actually, in reality, the 21' rule has been extended to 30`. Too many instances of cops being cut when the suspect was at or about 21' when they attacked the officer. I suggest any agency training within the 21' rule look at extending the training matrix out to 30 feet and practice it as a training maneuver. This would include drawing the handgun and shooting it at a close target (such as drawing and, keeping the pistol close in while firing...this is sometimes practiced with a target at about I yard distance). Typically, close in target practice does not use the example of a charging knive attack. This would include any weapon in such attacks. A club or frying pan can be just as deadly. Thanks for the video and discussion. These kinds of attacks are not new.
You have forgotten about the scabbard, it itself could be a weapon. You also can use it with the sword inside and at the same time draw the sword
That depends on the sword type and how it is worn. There is some evidence of swords being carried in their scabbard in the offhand in some earlier periods, however even then they were typically quite well secured. Certainly when it comes to the sabre, they are held in a baldrick or sword belt that allows a very small range of motion, where the scabbard cannot be withdrawn from the mounts, nor rotated and used where it is in any useful manner. In fact with a sabre it's common to hand on to the scabbard with the offhand to stop it tangling up the legs and getting in the way.
Interesting to see but unless we develop and expandable sword or light (plasma) saber this is just a curiosity.
Curious any recommendations on where to look for guidance on tomahawk use?
thank you, thoroughly enjoyed that
One not carry a sword but may have it at home for self defence on a wall or up against a corner cold steal makes some good mondern swords and some antuiqes can be sharpen right back up
They're getting thrusted inside of 21ft because they're not applying the footwork pattern in the top right of your screen.
+Tom from Kali Center That is not a footwork pattern, it is a cutting diagram. The aim of this video is not just to find out what is the best way to respond, though that is important, but what are the draw distances in difference scenarios and with different responses.
Here is a difference, you can't really parry with a gun, typically gun has a safety on, and often (almost always) holster isn't a quick style as those aren't great for day to day cary (this isn't always true just generally).
In those situation I would imagine (never tested it) a sword would be far better and quicker then a gun.
+Marek Dohojda True there are some advantages to the sword. They are carried open and with easy access, and they can be drawn into parries. From what we know about thrust and bullet wounds not always stopping an attacker, most swords can deliver incapacitating cuts, which is also an advantage.
Dont the lapd still use the Mozambique technique 2 to the chest if they keep coming 1 to the head
For immediate answers to sudden attacks you sould better look for russian shashka not sabre.
But the purpose is not to find what weapon is best for the task, only how particularly common weapons would operate in the circumstances. The shaska style hilt was not popular in Northern Europe. We could look to some earlier, more open hilted sabres of course, but that again would be a different video again.
I see. I just noted that for this kind of test shashka is much better than sabre because it was designed exactly for such situations. One strict cut not long sparring.
Actually katana is not a kind of european sword but it's very popular in Europe and US no matter that katana never was a part of european history. But shashka was. Two times at least ;-)
Why don't you use a draw cut akin to Iaido, there are historical manuscripts in Europe showing draw cuts with arming swords, I have the print out of the images. I don;t think many people know HEMA has draw cuts from the scabbard with arming swords.
In theory you could, and I did discuss that in the video at about the 10:30 minute mark. Though notice the fighter who tries it is parried and defeated. As it lacks concussive force it can be quite easy to parry with even something like a dagger. You also have to consider if the users ever training for something like that. In the case of sabre as here, I've now seen anything regarding it in manuals. Also depends how long the blade is and how it is suspended. From a baldric or shoulder belt with a blade length over about 80cm or so it can be difficult. Depending on the height of the user as well of course.
@@AcademyofHistoricalFencing I started typing that comment around the 6-7 min mark, I really should watch all the way through before commenting lol. I haven't ever tried a draw cut with a large 34+ inch cavalry sabre, I'm guessing it won;t work very well. It works with shorter infantry officers sabres, and hangers/cutlass etc though. The cut off length will depend on arm length and belt hook up like you said. For me personally I can draw cut with swords that have around a 32 inch blade, anything longer than that and it's clumsy and awkward.
Well what if the one with the sword blocked with part of of his/her blade and defelected the knife attacker/kinfe wielder blade
Great video!
another excellent video
I have a question, how would one defend a sword cut to the legs?
In this specific scenario or in general? It's very common in a wide range of sword based martial arts to defend the leg by withdrawing it. In sabre we call this a slip or shift. It can also be a form of traverse. It is usually combined with a simultaneous counter cut or thrust, or done as a riposte. The sword is used to defend when that is not enough, such as when there is no room to move or they have longer reach.
You wuould re show this with ranged wepons like long swords and bows and have wooden dowls made in to arr9es and for the tip put heavy patting materal and that way it wont hurt no one
Really interesting video, have to try it sometime :)
imo fam i would go by the 30 ft rule.
21 is a little too close for me tbh.
+ᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚᅚ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) Well it all depends on what you want to be able to achieve in that distance. In 21 feet you can easily draw and make one good strike. In more distance, against a charging opponent, you will still only have chance to strike once, there is no real difference. Not like a handgun where you can pull the trigger at range.
11:30 you spin me round round baby round round!
Also if you make a video about longsword draw would you consider the possibilty to use the pommel end of the sword to stop the attack not just the blade?
+Ákos Kovács We will be doing a longsword one soon. I hope to shoot the footage for it either this Friday or next week, and then edit over the holiday. Same for rapier. As for the possibility of using the pommel to defend with, we can certainly try. Letting a knife fighter or similar get within range for that could be really dangerous, but perhaps from a close distance attack it could be considered as a last resort. We will give it a try.
+Academy of Historical Fencing I think the pommel would be a fail, you would be better of just using your fist.
+PalookaD Indeed. That is what I was saying. But its always worth trying these things in a practical scenario so people can see how it will go, even if the result is, or seems obvious.
PalookaD Why not?you put your left hand on your scabbar and you right underthe crossguard instead of the hilt and pull it out and basicly go for halfswording im not saying its impossible or inefective to use your hand only but still,you have an object between you and the opponent's blade.
+Ákos Kovács The reason it will almost always fail is because the distance of the strike is so short, it needs both hands to really make it work, and the angle of attack is predictable. Even if it could land, it is very likely you will still get stabbed by the dagger.
Really interesting video!
Excellent video, as usual. I'd suggest - probably because my background is MMA first, HEMA more recently - that you folks incorporate unarmed grappling techniques in these scenarios in tandem with the weapons, especially in regards to situations taking place at a distance closer than 21 feet. I say this because an armed attacker rushing at such a speed can so easily be tripped, hipped tossed, etc., thus rendering their attack invalid and the assailant ending up on the ground. Drawing a saber or arming sword and dispatching a grounded attacker is much easier than trying to incapacitate such an attacker on his or her feet.
Anyway, cheers!
Hah, guess you actually mentioned exactly this around 11 minute mark. I commented before I'd finished the video.
i think if i were the knifeman i would probably not show my weapon until i'm a bit closer.
Of course that is the ideal if you want to kill someone, and this experiments looks to establish what options the defender might have in a range of distances. You can see exactly what happens at very close ranges.
I think a thrust would be faster, and make more sense. If the guy is bum rushing you why not let him impale himself?
Because the thrust has a massive problem, lack of stopping power. Many people who are hit with thrusts don't even notice they have been hit for some time, or notice any drop in weakness. This is well recorded historically as well as in modern stabbings. Additionally, they will not stop closing on you, so even if they are hurt, they will be able to strike you even after having been impaled. Lastly, the thrust is the one thing a knife attacker can pass off reasonably easily. as if shown with a lot of open hand techniques used against thrusting attacks.
11:30 - Very stylish ;)
I find it questionable for an attacker to give away his intent by charging at you like a madman. Wouldn't it be better for him to just sneak up behind his target then kill? Or just simply walk up to his target and then suddenly pull out his weapon in surprise (for example, he could talk politely only to suddenly pull out his knife to start stabbing)? I just find it impractical and unlikely for a killer to charge with his weapon ready and give an increased chance of the target's survival (either the target responds in time to defend himself, run away, or a nearby person stops the attacker).
Of course there would be a better chance of success, but within those distances the sword cannot be drawn, and unarmed and/or dagger work needs to be employed. The reality is that there are great many different types of attackers and situations, all the test looks to establish is the minimum distance at which you can employ a sword that is being worn.
There are all kinds of reasons why the threat may become apparent within a set distance. Whether it is because you know your attacker, perceive a threat because of body language, situation and context, etc. But the possibility of them running at you like a madmen is not unrealistic. Look at the wealth of medieval and renaissance coroners reports and you will find just that, including some very interesting responses and defences. Some rush in anger, some do so to try and close the distance before you can draw.
Even so, the test isn't trying to replicate a realistic scenario, only calculate how much time/space you need to draw and employ a sword.
Academy of Historical Fencing I understand. And I do agree that practicing self-defense against attackers is important. I also don't doubt that there were many historical scenarios that involved attackers just attacking straight on. I just find it an impractical thing to do for a killer when all he has to do is not give away his intent and be stealthy until he can kill his target before the latter finds out prior. It seems much easier unless if the situation makes it tricky. I know reckless killers existed, exist and will always exist. I just find it weird for a killer to give away his intent when there was an obvious easier solution. Still, it is still important to defend yourself as best as you can.
Do remember that this video isn't about practicing self-defence as such. It is testing a theory and looking to calculate what you realistically can and can't do at different distances, as opposed to what you then do actually do.
Yes indeed a killer would be far better off choosing him timing much more carefully, but that assumes that attackers are logical, and that attacks are pre-determined. The reality is that a lot of fights happen when emotions run high. Coroners reports are packed with instances of one man charging another in a furious anger without much concern or thought for anything at all.
Coroners reports show comparatively few examples of a well thought out knife murder. Same goes today. The majority of attackers are not callous enough, nor cool headed enough to plan a clean and subtle kill, but you will of course find such a thing in some of the worst prisons.
Academy of Historical Fencing Sorry I took a while to respond. Was busy with things.
I do respect your teachings and I agree that it is important to know self-defense techniques. I also agree that there are many attackers who act before thinking and there are many crazy people.
Still, with all the angry attackers in the past and modern day, I have a feeling that their targets must have done things that pissed the attackers off (I know there are various reasons including unstable guys who want to kill for enjoyment or are just plain crazy). I guess you better be nice so you don't make enemies.
Anyway, while there may have been many telegraphed attacks, I believe there were more stealth kills as such a tactic is obvious for even angry killers as long as they have common sense. While historical documents may say otherwise, it's important to note that they aren't 100% accurate as they may have been written with some convincing lies, misinformation, lack of information, etc. Not that they should be ignored. It's just that some important information may have been left out for various reasons such as propaganda, exaggerated and biased views, or because they found them not newsworthy. So much of the past and present is not recorded properly. Some information may have been lost.
Sorry for the long comment, good sir. I also apologize if it was poorly written.
For swords, the 21 foot rule is bullshit because you don't need to strike with the blade alone. It's possible to, as you're drawing, to parry, then strike under the chin with the pommel, then follow up with a horizontal slash to decapitate or slice open the throat.
Pommel strike from the draw will almost always get you stabbed, the distance is just too close. Try it under pressure. The point of the 21 foot rule is incapacitation of an opponent before they can reach you, if you let a knife attacker get that close, the chances are you are going to get hurt bad, whether you strike them or not.
Is there any schools like this in America?
+Blake the Fenian McBastard Yep there are lots. I recommend you go to the HEMA Alliance website and get on their forums. They should be able to point you to your nearest clubs.
In what situation would you find yourself in an ally fighting a gang members with a sword.
Thieves, bandits, deserters, disgruntled locals, mutineering troops.
Gangsters in places where guns are hard to get (Japan, Korea, Romania, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Jordan, the list goes on...)
I don't even like katanas but I'm surprised I didn't see others requesting a 21 foot rule video with one. I'd just be curious to see if you had someone doing some real Iaijutsu if it would work.
Drawing of the katana has a cult like status and following these days. I'll leave it to them :-) Though we will do a cutlass/shortsword video at some stage, which would be much the same due to it's size.
Academy of Historical Fencing Thanks for responding, interested to see it. Subscribing now, hope you keep making great videos.
Muy buen video
Would love to see one of these with a greatsword
As in montante/zweihander? They were carried in the hands, so no drawing involved, and no like its something you walk around with day to day either.
i just have this old book describing armour and clothing in the 16th century, and there is this weird rifle sling looking thing which someone uses to carry his greatsword. i do realise that they were pretty much only meant for the battlefield, but i thought it would be fun nonetheless.
i'm a bit of an montante-enthusiast, so it is what i mostly practice with. i had to ask, Sorry :)
You can ask whatever you like :-) There isn't a lot of evidence about as to how they were carried, except for in the hands on resting on the shoulder. I am sure some people made up some kind of sling for them. If they were slung like that then I am sure the user would draw shortsword (katzbalger or similar for example) first, or dagger if they don't have a short sword. Otherwise if it were in the hands or on the shoulder, only a suicidal moron would rush you.
to be fair it sounds kind of suicidal to rush anyone who carries a sword from 21 feet if all you have is a dagger
Try talking at 21 feet... If he is closing at 21 feet after told to stop, then you definitely have a problem.
Arrows*
I wish we carried swords in daily life.
one other variable...run away! the distance would stay the same and increase, hopefully....
+Fred Eagle The amount of group they can cover in the time it takes you to turn and accelerate to the equivalent speed will almost always result in you getting stabbed in the back.
How about side stepping and running in the direction they came? I'm not being awkward, just trying to escape!
+Fred Eagle It's plausible yes, but you'd want to draw a weapon as well, too much left to chance otherwise. Whether they can turn and adjust or not is a gamble.
I think the best weapon for this is the quarter staff.
No, the best self-defence weapon is of course the crotch-revolver worn by Sam Raimi in the movie "from dusk til' dawn"
I learned about it thanks to ShepherdSurvives website
thats not how you draw a sword.
According to who?
@@AcademyofHistoricalFencing Samurai