Introduction to Fiore's Dagger Plays

Instructor Stephen Kine presents fundamental dagger techniques from Fiore dei Liberi's 'The Flower of Battle,' a recently acquired 14th-century Italian combat manual. The text demonstrates striking parallels to modern grappling systems, including hip throws similar to judo and full nelson holds documented in catch wrestling.

Primary Defense: Interception and Disarm

When facing a downward stab to the neck, the defender intercepts with the left hand and envelops the opponent's wrist. The defender then uses their forearm as a leverage point to extract the dagger from the attacker's grip, or alternatively rotates their wrist downward to destabilize the opponent before disarming with the right hand.

Counter-Defense: Elevating the Blade Tip

The attacking opponent can defend against the initial disarm by raising the dagger tip above the defender's forearm, eliminating the primary leverage point. This tactical adjustment forces the defender to employ an alternative control method.

Figure-Four Arm Lock Transition

When the initial disarm is thwarted, the defender snakes their arm behind the opponent's elbow and secures a figure-four lock with their own forearm. This grappling position provides sufficient control to take the opponent to the ground.

Final Counter: Pommel Wrench and Reversal

As the opponent attempts to complete the figure-four takedown, the defender grasps their dagger's pommel and wrenches it downward to redirect the blade point toward the opponent's neck. This counter-technique neutralizes the grappling advantage and reasserts control.

Historical Significance and Future Content

This translation of Fiore's work represents an unprecedented quality standard for historical combat documentation. Instructor Kine indicates plans for comprehensive video analysis of the complete manual pending audience demand.

A taste of Fiore

Blood and Iron HEMA

Standard Riposte

2 min read·6 key moments·PT4M7S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Fiore's Dagger Plays
•Primary Defense: Interception and Disarm
•Counter-Defense: Elevating the Blade Tip
•Figure-Four Arm Lock Transition

Hosts Steve Kime and Nicole Smith give you a taste of Fiore's dagger plays and a Fiore book by Colin Hatcher and Tracy Mellow. Want to train with us from anywhere in the world? Check out our online program! - https://www.bloodandiron.ca/online Check out our Patreon if you'd like to support our work :) - https://www.patreon.com/BloodandIronHEMA Happy Guitar Music from Bensound" Neon Dreams (loopable) by chilledmusic Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/6985-neon-dreams-loopable- License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about standard riposte?

This video covers introduction to fiore's dagger plays, primary defense: interception and disarm, counter-defense: elevating the blade tip. It provides detailed instruction from Blood and Iron HEMA.

How long does it take to learn standard riposte?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 6-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.