Resources
Books
Source Material
Ringeck Danzig Lew: Long Sword by Stephen Cheney - A side by side comparison of three main glosses that we use in class
Peter von Danzig by Harry R - A complete, easy to understand translation of the Danzig glosses of long sword, mounted, and armored fencing
The Long Sword Gloss of Manuscript 3227a by Michael Chidester - A complete, easy to understand translation of the gloss of MS 3227a.
The Art of Combat by Jeffrey Forgeng - A translation of Joachim Meyer’s 1570 fencing book.
Historical Context
The Martial Ethic in Early Modern Germany by Ann Tlusty - Explores German society's relationship with weapons and martial culture from the 15th to 17th centuries.
The Feud in Early Modern Germany by Hillay Zmora - Explores feuding culture and private violence mostly between nobles in the 15th and 16th centuries.
General Fencing Theory
Understanding Fencing by Zbigniew Czajkowski - A dense explanation of many aspects of modern fencing theory and coaching. Very interesting, but may be difficult for beginners.
Epee 2.5 by Johan Harmenberg - An easier read, about how a few fencers changed the paradigm of modern épée fencing by re-analyzing the game.
Audio and video
Bucks Historical Longsword Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXmMbC94tKLTcOh_RUkwAxQ
“Fencing by the Book” Podcast: https://fencingbythebook.podbean.com/ - A panel of enthusiasts discuss the early glosses of Liechtenauer’s Zettel one piece at a time.
Wiktenauer Links
Wiktenauer is an online repository for fencing, wrestling, and other combat related historical texts. Home page: https://wiktenauer.com/
Wiktenauer Navigation Guide: https://youtu.be/w3O3b17JKLQ - Wiktenauer is a useful tool, but can be difficult for beginners. Use this as a primer to get started.
Lew: https://www.wiktenauer.com/wiki/Lew
Gear
Here are some gear distributors, it is advised that you see your instructor for recommendations before purchasing any gear.
Purpleheart Armory: https://www.woodenswords.com/ - Go-to website for most HEMA gear.
SPES USA: https://histfenc.us/ - Website for SPES gear.
HEMA Supplies: https://hemasupplies.com/ - US retailer for several brands such as Polish Sparring Gloves and Regenyei feders.
SIGI forge: https://sigiforge.com/ - Website for SIGI sword makers.
For first timers:
In order to participate in class, you will need a mask and at least lacrosse gloves.
Recommended mask: https://www.absolutefencinggear.com/absolute-foil-epee-coach-mask.html
There is no specific glove recommendation, whatever you can find that has lacrosse level padding will be okay.