Finding the best swordsmanship manual suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Reviews
1. Saber Exercise 1914 Training Manual in Swordsmanship
Description
Written by George S. Patton, Jr. the year after the War Department approved his radical redesign of the cavalry saber, "Saber Exercise 1914 Training Manual in Swordsmanship," was published by the U.S. Army as the standard of instruction in swordsmanship for its officers. Patton's redesign necessitated a fundamental change in mounted and dismounted saber techniquesall of which is explained in this manual. This manual comes complete with many detailed drawings depicting the various teaching points. Patton also wrote "Diary of the Instructor in Swordsmanship" the following year as an accompanying text providing more detailed explanations. The Diary contains rare photographs of a very young Patton modeling his various recommended tactics and techniques.2. The Art Of Japanese Swordsmanship A Manual Of Eishin-Ryu Iaido The Art Of Japanese Swordsmanship
3. The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship: A Manual of Eishin-Ryu Iaido
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Used Book in Good ConditionDescription
The original purpose of iaido was to slay an opponent with one stroke of the sword upon unsheathing; today it is practiced as a martial art, one that improves concentration, develops strength and coordination, and cultivates awareness of an ancient culture and its traditions. This manual of Eishin-Ryu (or "Pure Faith") iaido teaches the most widely practiced sword style, and is illustrated with step-by-step drawings to help students, from beginners to advanced, hone their forms and techniques. Introductory chapters explain the history and evolution of the art, the Japanese sword and related equipment, and the etiquette and code of the samurai, while an extensive glossary and bibliography are provided for further reference.4. The Art of Chinese Swordsmanship: A Manual of Taiji Jian
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Used Book in Good ConditionDescription
Most Westerners are familiar with Taiji Quan (often spelled T'ai Chi Ch'uan), the graceful, dancelike exercise movements practiced by the Chinese to promote health and longevity. However, many do not realize that Taiji is also a martial art, and that it includes practice with weapons, including the ancient sword called jian. As with Taiji Quan, the practice ofTaiji Jian is based on Chinese yin-yang, five-elements, and Daoist philosophical concepts, and combines meditation, martial, and healing arts.The Art of Chinese Swordsmanship is the first complete English-language introduction to Taiji Jian. It describes the history of jian swordsmanship, its fundamental principles, and its essential form of thirty-two postures, including a thorough discussion of both internal and external components. Written by a master who has practiced the sword form for twenty-five years, it will allow interested Westerners to study and practice this rewarding path to physical and mental well-being.
5. Naked Blade: A Manual of Samurai Swordsmanship
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Used Book in Good ConditionDescription
Book by Obata, Toshishiro6. Highland Broadsword: Five Manuals of Scottish Regimental Swordsmanship
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Anti-Pugilism by Captain G. SinclairFencing Familiarized by Thomas Mathewson
Lectures on the Art of Defence by Archibald MacGregor
On the Use of the Broadsword by Henry Angelo
The Art of Defence on Foot with Broadsword and Saber by John Taylor
Description
The basket-hilted Scottish broadsword or Claymore has long been a symbol for Scottish independence and the fierce regard in which Scots warriors are still held. While the rest of Europe emphasized the use of smaller, lighter swords or curved cavalry models, the Scottish weapon retained its medieval flavor. Veteren swordsmen and accomplished authors Paul Wagner and Mark Rector present five key treatises that offer a wealth of advice for fighting with both the basket-hilted broadsword and the single stick -- an ash or rattan stick mounted in a wicker or leather basket-hilt, used both for training and as a weapon in its own right. Included are complete transcriptions of:Anti-Pugilism by Sinclair, illustrated with copper plate engravings; MacGregor's Lectures on the Art of Defence; The Art of Defence on Foot with Broadsword and Saber by Taylor; Fencing Familiarized by Mathewson; and Henry Angelo's On the Use of the Broadsword, rendered in full color.These texts contain useful exercises for historical swordsmen of any background. In addition, Paul Wagner provides a full introduction.7. Highland Broadsword: Lessons, Drills, and Practices
Description
The lessons in Highland Broadsword are designed to help you learn the fundamentals of broadsword fighting, with an emphasis on developing practical skills, not on exploring the esoteric details of broadsword fencing theory.In the first part of the book, Christopher Thompsonwho is the author of Highland Knife Fighting and Highland Martial Culture , and runs the Cateran Society Broadsword Academy in Portland, Maineinstructs you in the essentials of Highland swordsmanship, including stances, grips, footwork, and blade actions. After you've mastered these skills, you can test what you've learned with the free fencing and bouting exercises found in part two before moving on to the disarm maneuvers and advanced fighting techniques in part three.
Highland Broadsword can be used as a self-study guide by groups or by individuals with a training partner. While designed for the broadsword, the techniques in this manual also work with the backsword and singlestick. This is a must-read for anyone interested in the historical use of Highland weapons or in the Western martial arts in general.