Fencing With the Smallsword

Reviews / Votes

"This book is a
valuable resource for anyone looking to master the art of swordmanship,
offering a comprehensive guide to both technique and etiquette. It provides
clear, step-by-step instructions on the essential movements and stances,
ensuring that novices can quickly gain confidence in their skills. For anyone
wishing to start navigating the complexities of swordplay with equal finesse,
this book proves to be an indispensable guide."

Predrag Agatonovic. President of FEATHER - School of
Historical Fencing. CEO of FEATHER SMALLSWORDS




'Michael J. Stevens's Fencing with the Smallsword lays
out an elegantly paced curriculum, starting with a concise historical survey of
the 17th-18th-century smallsword and moving through clear, modernized theory
before diving into progressively challenging drills and realistic sparring
advice. The structure makes it equally accessible to complete beginners and to
seasoned HEMA practitioners seeking a historically informed syllabus.

As a Master of Arms I appreciate how
Stevens grounds his drills in period practice-his blade-feel exercise felt
immediately useful on the salle floor. He balances historical context with
hands-on advice so well that both beginners and HEMA vets will find themselves
training from day one. Overall, Fencing with the Smallsword is that rare guide
you'll reach for and actually use every session.





Fencing with the Smallsword is a must-have for any fencing coach or HEMA
enthusiast-a concise, enjoyable, and deeply informed guide that you'll actually
use on the practice strip.'


Toby
Manley, Master of Arms at MAHS
Academy








'Michael has pushed forward the
understanding of the small sword in this excellent book which is useful
for all Olympic Sport Fencers to understand some of the lineage of
historical fencing (which may help their own modern fencing). Also
for actors, stunt people and stage combat practitioners to help understand a
modern take on an ancient weapon'.


Nick
Payne, Sword Fighting International. Former British and Australian number
1 in Men's Foil Fencing, 2012 London
Olympic Referee.