Swordplay?
 

Let me start by saying hello to everyone that views these boards, this is my first post, and not my last. I have been collecting swords, blades, claws and such for a short amount of time, I have nothing really worth anything mostly just inexpensive decorative items, just for the fun of it, but recently I have wanted to become a more hardcore collector of blades and such. The type of blades can never get enough of is those medieval broadswords, shortswords, pretty much straight edged weapons. Another question I do have is, how can one be taught how to actually use these weapons? Of course I only speak of safe and easy swordplay, but it would be very interesting to know how to use these blades, thanks for your time.

Nastidon

Welcome to the forum. My advice is that: Before start to collect real or antique edged weapons, read as much as you can about them. Read this forum, the older forum (http://www.vikingsword.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=6), other stuff in Internet and books. The more knowledge you get the less money you will pay (or the oposite :D if you love the rare ones). Ask questions. People here love to talk about a piece.

Swordplay with antique swords? I dont want to think about it! :eek:

Swordplay with new swords is OK. Actually it is the fencing sport. Or martial art. In any city there are sport clubs for them.

HI ,,fencing is ideal for learning the basic structure of sword play then depending on what length style and weight sword you want to become good at get some books on it to help bridge the gap...if your gona use new metal swords for practice make sure you have a partner you know and trust and get some safety equipment :) even a practice/blunt sword can crush a finger or put out an eye :eek:

Here is a good website on sword fighting. I saw these guys in action at Ashokan a few years and they are really good!

http://www.thearma.org/

Lew

Awesome, thank for the help guys

One thing that's tricky about ethnic weapons is that often each region had their own peculiar style of fighting with each type of weapon.
"The Weapons and Fighting Arts of Indonesia" by Donn F. Draeger covers a wide range of knives, swords, spears and shields broken down by Island/Tribe throughout much of the archipelago.

Conogre, you're back...
Re:swordplay- I've trained with ARMA, but I also practice with sword collectors in my area using different weaponry besides the European variety. Usually you start off with trainers, blunts, carved wooden swords and padded sticks depending. Live blade takes skill and control for both you and your partner/s. With antiques you rarely make contact so don't be afraid to use them, handling and figuring out how to use them will make you appreciate them more.