I've seen experienced men spar with European longswords, and I can tell you it's every bit as developed and deadly as Eastern martial arts. We've been fortunate in the last several years in the publication and growing interest in medieval and Renaissance fechtbuchs. The typical veiw of European swords and swordfighting is mainly a Hollywood stereotype, along with 100 lb. armour and craning knights onto their horses. I've been looking for a group near me, but haven't found anyone conveniently close yet. |