We're into the second week of our month on cutting at Academie Duello. This week we're exploring the use of the cut to control the sword of the opponent (Green - level 1), the use of the buckler with the heavier sidesword (Blue - level 2) and the core defences of the longsword against various attacks (Red - level 3). In our Longsword Focus class we're exploring the counter-cut, a defence where a cut is used to simultaneous defend and counter-attack.

Longsword Focus

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In Longsword Focus class this month we are focusing on the counter-cut. This is a defensive action that is in itself an attack. In the first class we explore the mechanics of three types of counter cuts and how they can be delivered against the fendenti.

Green Cord (Level 1)

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In this week we explore how the concept of Stringere (constraint) can be applied with the cut. By using a cut to knock aside the opponent's sword, you create a moment where the opponent has to bring their sword back online, during this time you can strike with a cut or a thrust depending on how much time you've created.

Blue Cord (Level 2)

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The buckler has two primary jobs when used in accompaniment with the sword: 1. To stay between the threat and you, 2. To protect the sword arm from attack. To accomplish both of these purposes there are 4 specialized buckler positions that will allow you to accomplish these objectives while attacking your opponent.

Red Cord (Level 3)

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In this week in Red Cord we look at how to defend against blows from the four primary positions of the sword, upper right, upper left, lower right, and lower left. The defences are broken down into 5 types: parries, deflections, counter-cuts, counter-thrusts, and collections.

Exercise of the Week

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Our fundamental exercise with the longsword this week will help you develop the ability to maneuver around your sword to transition grips and sword orientations.

Devon Boorman is the Co-Founder and Director of Academie Duello Centre for Swordplay, which has been active in Vancouver, Canada since 2004. Devon’s expertise centres on the Italian swordplay tradition including the arts of the Renaissance Italian rapier, sidesword, and longsword, as well as knife and unarmed techniques.
Read more from Devon Boorman.