2017-03-08 AHF Longsword

AHF Fencing 08-03-2017

Handwork Lessons: Verfliegen & Zucken, Felhen & Absetzen

Both sets of handworks are designed to allow you to decieve or interrupt your opponent and strike just after their strike. In each case the main movement of the handwork is delivered by the left hand on the pommel. The right hand acts as the pivot.

Verfliegen

Useful when you notice your opponent is keen to parry without striking back. Go to make the strike as usual, but before the blades make contact, quickly pull the blade back and around theirs to strike on the other side.

A: Zornhau, stepping out to the right

D: Attempts Zornhau parry

A: Before blade contact, pulls the blade back, stepping to the left delivers a cut on the other side to a high target zone

Zucken

Identical in form to Verfliegen but instead makes blade contact. At the point the defender goes strong, the attacker can pull the blade round their blade to strike.

A: Zornhau

D: Zornhau parry

A: On feeling D go strong, pulls the blade back, stepping out to the left, strikes a high target zone.

In both Verfliegen and Zucken there is a risk that a fast opponent will strike or follow through their attack during the quick pull back. The nature of these handworks favors catching your opponent off guard. Felhen and Absetzen are more defensive in that they natrually resemble a hanging parry during their transition.

Felhen

Works much like Verfliegn in that it is performed before blade contact. Requires a rotation of the pommel to allow you to pass their sword and strike. Works well against an opponent which is keen to rush in.

A: Zorhau stepping out to the right

D: Attempts Zornhau parry

A: Before blade contact is made, lifts the pommel and drops the point. Starts a rotational movement with the pommel that takes the point down, round and back against the opponent on the other side of the blade. Right hand stays mostly still, with left doing the rotational work. Performed whilst stepping out to the left.

Absetzen

Functionally identical to Felhen, however this time blade contact is made allowing attacker to determine if the defender goes strong or weak.

A: Zorhau

D: Attempts Zornhau parry

A: Makes blade contact to determines if D goes strong. Performs the same rotational movement as Felhen whilst stepping out to the left.