Mastering the longsword in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) requires understanding fundamental techniques drawn from medieval combat manuscripts. These core movements form the foundation of both German and Italian fencing traditions, offering practitioners effective offensive and defensive capabilities.
Core Cutting Techniques
Oberhau (Descending Cut)
This fundamental diagonal cut originates from the shoulder, delivering power while maintaining control of the centre line. Practitioners use it to establish dominance in engagements and create openings for follow-up techniques.
Unterhau (Ascending Cut)
Executed as a rising diagonal strike from the hip to the opposite shoulder, this technique proves invaluable for countering high guards and creating offensive opportunities from below.
Zornhau (Wrath Cut)
A committed diagonal strike serving dual purposes as both an attack and an intercepting movement. When parried, it seamlessly transitions into the Zornhau ort thrust, demonstrating the longsword’s versatility.
Zwerchhau (Thwart Cut)
This horizontal cut specialises in neutralising descending attacks, particularly effective against opponents favouring high-line strikes. Its execution requires precise edge alignment and body mechanics.
Blade Engagement Techniques
Abnehmen (Taking Off)
A sophisticated technique for regaining initiative during blade contact, involving a calculated disengagement followed by an immediate strike to exposed targets.
Durchwechseln (Changing Through)
When facing strong blade pressure, this manoeuvre involves dropping the point beneath the opponent’s weapon to create new attacking lines while maintaining control.
Winden (Winding)
This rotational technique exemplifies the German concept of Fühlen (feeling the opponent’s pressure). By winding the blade in the bind, practitioners gain positional advantage for decisive thrusts.
Abschneiden (Slicing Off)
A precise, short-range cutting motion used to clear lines or target vulnerable areas like hands and arms during close engagements.
Strategic Guard Positions
Hängen and Ochs (Hanging and Ox Guards)
These complementary positions offer dynamic defensive and offensive capabilities. The Hängen guard provides protective coverage while Ochs positions the point threateningly forward, enabling rapid transitions between defence and attack.
Advanced Combat Concepts
Meisterhauen (Master Cuts)
This sophisticated system comprises five specialised techniques designed to overcome defensive positions:
- Zornhau (breaking vertical guards)
- Krumphau (countering downward strikes)
- Zwerchhau (neutralising high attacks)
- Scheitelhau (parting cut against central guards)
- Schielhau (slanting cut for angular attacks)
Training Principles
Effective longsword mastery extends beyond memorising techniques. Practitioners must develop:
- Precise timing through structured drilling
- Sensitivity to blade pressure in engagements
- Spatial awareness for optimal positioning
- The ability to adapt techniques fluidly based on opponent responses
Regular practice with focused intent remains paramount. The art of longsword combat blends physical execution with tactical decision-making, requiring dedication to both technical precision and strategic understanding.
For those seeking authentic interpretations, consulting period manuscripts such as Johannes Liechtenauer’s teachings or Fiore dei Liberi’s Flos Duellatorum provides invaluable insights into these historical combat methods. Training under qualified instructors ensures proper development of these skills while maintaining historical accuracy.
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Image credit: Björn Rüther YouTube
