Introductions, Curiosity, and Questions.

[Cole Libicer]

Hello, all.

As a new forum member, new WMA practitioner, and soon-to-be Associate Member, introductions are certainly in order:

I've lurked about the ARMA forums for about a year now, and finally got around to purchasing a Fechtbuch (Talhoffer) and waster (Hollow Earth). The conduct with which members conduct themselves on here, and the formidable skill displayed in videos of freeplay that have been posted are all the compelling I need to want to join up. Drilling stances, Meisterhauen, and footwork outside my dorm at night has gotten me some strange looks, but I have to say that I'm loving the learning process so far. As far as I know, there are no ARMAteers in my area, so I'm doing what I can with flourysh work now, and building an H-frame pell.

Now for the questions:

Firstly, though Hollow Earth did a great job with my waster's construction, it's not perfect (and neither was their customer service). The cross is too thick, and is rather cumbersome during a Krumphau or Zwerchhau. Also, the grip itself feels too wide and insufficiently thick/high; would sanding it narrower, adding lams, and wrapping the assembly with leather provide a historically accurate grip profile? It feels like I'm holding a thick ruler, currently, and I can't imagine historical swords had hilting this clumsy-feeling.

Secondly, and I suppose this is a telltale newbie flag, but the default step for the Krump is the passing step, correct?

Thirdly, what should I be wearing for this? I've been using my ropers (flat leather sole, low heel), since I wear them almost constantly and they're fairly close to period boots, but I suspect they would look somewhat naff with breeches and knee-high red socks And blue jeans (fairly tight) can only take one so far in one's training. I was considering sewing a period shirt and a pair of breeches, and donning red socks with wrestling shoes. Until then, 0pinions? I see proper attire as central to reconstructing this art as it was intended to be trained, but I also know I should be wearing an ARMA shirt once I have one. I suppose this is a moot point, since I haven't even applied yet!

Sorry for the wall of text;

Cole

[Sal Bertucci]

[url]1. Warning: Don't modify it so much that you cause it to be weak.

2. It depends. While a passing step is generally shown in most techniques, you need to be able to step however you need to in order to perform the technique. Simple, gathered, passing, etc.

3. It should be comfortable and allow for ease of movement. If you want to go period that's fine, but not a requirement. For shoes consider this:

http://www.thearma.org/essays/historical-footwear.html

[Cole Libicer]

Thanks for the response, Sal. I get what you mean about not modifying my water to the point of failure, and I'll be pretty gingerly about doing any work to it as far as thinning/shaping goes.

As far as footwork, yeah, I feel you there. The step has to match the cut has to match the situation.

I checked over the practice partners list/searched the forum, and I can't find anyone in my area. There was one post from a user last active in 2008, but that's it. Hard to believe that there isn't even anyone in El Paso!

[Stacy Clifford]

There are a lot of places we don't have anybody yet, this art is still slowly spreading its tendrils back into the modern world after hundreds of years laying dormant. In every location it has to start with somebody, so why not you? We've got a lot of members who have been in your position (Sal is one of them) who can help you with ideas to recruit partners and get started, and if you travel you've pretty much got an open invitation to practice anywhere we can be found.

[Andrew F Ulrich]

The closest member I know about is Matt Baker in Phoenix (I think he's still a member). Let me know if you want his contact info.

I haven't found handle or cross thickness to be much of a hindrance for me personally. Proper clothing does help though. The standard ARMA uniform (red tshirt and unmarked black sweatpants) feels pretty nice, and it's what I'd recommend. And did you see this article:
http://www.thearma.org/essays/historical-footwear.html

Anyway, welcome to the RMA community, and it's good to hear you're applying for membership! Keep in mind the International Gathering will be held next year in Houston and it'll be a great way to get to know the other members and get some training in.