Introduction to Septime Parry

The septime parry, also known as parry five, is an essential defensive technique in fencing that offers unique advantages for fencers of varying heights. This instructional guide explores both the tactical applications and proper execution of this often-overlooked parry.

Understanding Fencing Lines and Positions

Fencing divides the target area into four primary zones: high line, low line, inside, and outside. Inside position refers to movement toward the center line of the body, while outside refers to movement away from it. These spatial distinctions form the foundation for understanding parry mechanics.

Tactical Advantage for Short Fencers

The septime parry proves particularly valuable for shorter fencers facing taller opponents. By lifting the opponent's blade upward and over the head, the shorter fencer gains superior positioning and can dictate target selection for the riposte. This technique transforms the height disadvantage into a tactical advantage through blade control.

Unpredictability and Blade Finding

Unlike predictable parries four and six, the septime parry's upward motion creates defensive unpredictability that increases the likelihood of intercepting the opponent's blade. This element of surprise provides the defender with superior opportunities to establish contact before the attacker can adjust their point.

Tall Fencer Applications

Taller fencers benefit from the septime parry when defending against shorter opponents attacking from distance. By catching the attack at an unexpected angle, the tall fencer can create space and launch their own offensive response before their opponent can close distance for close-range engagement.

Execution Mechanics

The septime parry begins from extension distance with the point dropping beneath the incoming attack. The defender then lifts the opponent's blade upward and over their head using a controlled rotational motion. After clearing the threat, the hand drops and the point extends toward the target for the riposte.

Advancement Drill

Short fencers should practice the septime parry with advancing footwork to simulate closing distance during an attack. This drill combines blade mechanics with progressive forward movement, requiring the fencer to maintain proper parry execution while covering ground toward the opponent.

Defensive Lunge Integration

Taller fencers should practice the septime parry with a stepping-back and lunging sequence to replicate real competitive situations. This advanced drill develops the ability to create distance, execute the parry, and immediately counterattack with a powerful lunge.

Strategic Implementation

The septime parry should not become a primary defensive technique but rather a valuable supplementary tool within a fencer's tactical repertoire. When deployed selectively and strategically, it provides surprise value and effective blade control against opponents expecting conventional parries.

Parry 5: Why and How

Cyrano's Place

Septime Parry

2 min read·9 key moments·PT7M7S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Septime Parry
•Understanding Fencing Lines and Positions
•Tactical Advantage for Short Fencers
•Unpredictability and Blade Finding

Explanation and demonstration of the Parry 5, an exoteric parry that is great for shorter fencers. And, how taller fencers can utilize the parry. Along with the mechanic of how to execute. This was a special request from James Clark. Want us to explain something? Leave us a comment! Please subscribe, like and share. Be part of Cyrano's Place by becoming a Patron thru Patreon. For as little as $2 a month, you can support these educational fencing videos: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=32131403 Want some basic footwork warm-up try our Lunge or Advance and Retreat basic workouts: Lunge - https://youtu.be/DnUPFjLCQtQ Advance and Retreat: https://youtu.be/t_bs1ILCmHw Need a Target? Here's an easy to make target for your home: https://youtu.be/yBcXN40l0yQ

Related Techniques

Octave Parry Quarte Parry Sixte Parry

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about septime parry?

This video covers introduction to septime parry, understanding fencing lines and positions, tactical advantage for short fencers. It provides detailed instruction from Cyrano's Place.

How long does it take to learn septime parry?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.

Step-by-Step Breakdown9 steps