Rapier

Greetings good gentle! This is a place devoted to Rapier Combat as we practice it in the SCA. We the fencers of Calrithig and Skraeling Althing bid you welcome and hope that what you see, you find interesting.

What is 'Rapier Combat' ?

A rapier is defined as: "A long narrow two-edged sword with a guarded hilt, used as a thrusting weapon, popular in the 16th and 17th centuries." Thus 'Rapier Combat' is fighting using a long narrow two sided sword.

Rapier combat as we practice it in the SCA is a recreation of historical combat as it actually took place in the period of time that the SCA studies. This time period (600-1600) saw dramatic evolution in the practices and equipment of rapier combat. We strive not to simply fence well, but seek to emulate and practice the 'Art of Defence' as was taught in the period. This begins with a (relatively) simple goal of mastering the safe use of the blade and then progresses to the learning of period styles.

We practice fencing in period styles using schlager type blades. We have chosen to use the schlagers as they are the closest approximation of the blades used in period that are available commerically today. The blades in period were longer and heavier than the modern fencing blades (foil, epee & sabre) so the extra weight and shape of the schlager makes it more suitable for our recreation.

What do I need to come out and try it out?

You need:

• Comfortable loose fitting clothes (track pants & sweatshirt for example)
• If male, rigid groin protection
• (Women may desire rigid breast protection, but it is not required)
• Sneakers or equivalent comfortable shoes

We'll be happy to loan you:

• Appropriate fencing armour
• A schlager blade
• One of our Marshals In Training, to help teach you!

When and Where is the practice?
Thursdays: 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. - Jack Purcell Community Centre - 320 Elgin St
July 30th and August 6th practices cancelled . 

WHO:
For details, contact Wilhelm von Pottruff: CaldrithigFencing@skraelingalthing.com