ARMA Sweden Seminar, 2003

Our 2nd annual seminar in Sweden was bigger than last year. This time we had members come from 6 different Swedish Study Groups for a curriculum of longsword and sword and buckler. Once again we were treated by the guest of expert swordsmith Peter Johnsson. There was a lot of sweating, practicing, exploring, weapon handling, and laughs. Sweden once again proved it is on the leading edge of historical fencing studies. Our appreciation to Per Ake, Nils, Hans, Björn, and all the rest for making the two days such a success. Their integrity, energy, and commitment is a role model for all enthusiasts.

Warm up exercises and drills from our Amartura filled the first few hours.

A lecture on replica sword making and historical blades was made more exciting presentation of by Peter J.'s superb weapons.

The guys learning sword & buckler
counters against long sword.

General principles of the sword & buckler were covered at length in a manner that allowed quick application and practice.

A good deal of time was spent on half-swording, a vital skill and special area of study within ARMA's longsword curriculum.

Joachim and Reimer had an
intense session on half-sword.

Hans and Neils show off some grappling skills.

The ever enthusiastic Joachim practices a
newly acquired technique on the
good natured Dutchman Reimer from Switz.

Practicing close-in seizing.

Learning blade divisions
and sensitivity to pressure.

Björn happily has a go as John C. works the fundamentals of facing a sword & buckler with him.

Step by step, building logically on elements and concepts toward a fuller understanding.

A variety of training later in the day.

Room two gave more
space to those crowded out.

Peter Johnsson shows off one of his fine pieces.

John C. drooling over Peter's exceptional Svante Nilsson Stures sword, "the finest modern replica sword I have ever handled" - John C.

Peter Johnsson describing aspects of real sword construction and design.

A close up of two samples of Peter's fine craftsmanship and artistry. Light, sturdy, well-balanced, and virtually screaming "Use Me!"

A close up of this unique Swedish Schlachterschwerter --long handled, large pommeled, acutely pointed, with a high centerline riser, and s-curved cross. A formidable and functional weapon reflecting the highest of Renaissance longsword design.

Some of the group passing
around Peter's swords for inspection.

Peter showing details of cross-sectional elements relating to blade function.

John C. and Peter trading insights.

Time off their feet after 6 hours training.

"Armateers"


During what was our 7th visit in the last 3 years to a research library for purposes of studying arms and armor or viewing original editions of historic fencing works, we were able to examine several famous texts. Above is Camillo Agrippa's from 1553.

Here an original of Achille Marozzo's work of 1536 --this was the second surviving copy of the book we've been able to view.

An original of Capo Ferro's famous
rapier treatise of 1610.

Studying a first edition of a rare
16th century text on fighting.

 

See also our visit to the Swedish Royal Armories in "Hey Mister, ...is that sword real?"
 
 
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