Introduction & Content Overview

Julien Schütze and Nicole Smith present instructional content addressing patron questions on longsword and rapier techniques. The session covers the high cross shield and various applications of primo with rapier, with instructors alternating between topics.

High Cross Shield: Foundation & Mechanics

The high cross shield is executed by rotating the hands counterclockwise, delivering a diagonal downward cut to the head with hands elevated and crossed. This differs from historical interpretations where the thumb would rest on the blade and the cut would travel more horizontally or ascending.

High Cross Shield: Solo Counter Limitations

As a standalone counter to open-side attacks, the high cross shield proves difficult to execute successfully due to poor positioning. The cross-side version is more effectively launched from high guard or similar positions, though both applications remain challenging and require additional practice.

High Cross Shield: Reactive Timing Advantage

The high cross shield functions most effectively as a reactive counter when the opponent commits to a parrying action. By predicting the opponent's counter-attack, the instructor can drive through the cut to strike the head, creating a successful compound attack.

High Cross Shield: Follow-Up Applications

The high cross shield generates the most consistent results when chained after another technique, such as a thrust. When the opponent deflects a thrust and the instructor raises into the high cross shield, the transition from true edge to false edge creates a faster, more fluid action suitable for continuing a circular attack pattern.

High Cross Shield: Practical Sparring Challenges

The primary limitation of the high cross shield in full-equipment sparring is the difficulty of executing the diagonal downward angle when wearing arm guards and protective jackets. The physical constraints of protective gear, combined with the stress of active combat, complicate the technique's execution.

Primo with Rapier: Position & Mechanics

Primo is established by rotating the hand upward from third position, creating a strong wrist alignment with the blade tip pointing downward and across the body. This position emphasizes control and constraint of the opponent's blade.

Primo: Reactive Use & Pressure Management

Primo with rapier is most effectively employed in response to opponent actions rather than as an opening position. When the opponent attempts to push the instructor's blade offline, rolling and stepping forward maintains point control while neutralizing incoming pressure.

Primo: Defense Against Circular & Cutting Attacks

Primo functions as an effective counter to both lateral blade movements and cutting attacks, particularly leg cuts. A well-timed step forward combined with a rolling motion into primo can interrupt incoming cuts, though the technique requires precise timing to prevent the opponent from displacing the point.

Primo: Advanced Application from Tail Guard

An advanced application involves feinting a cutting action from tail guard before delivering a thrust as the opponent commits. While rarely employed in practice, this technique demonstrates primo's utility as a finishing position in compound attacks.

Complex Longsword / Rapier techniques - Patreon Mailbag: October

Blood and Iron HEMA

Flank Cut

3 min read·10 key moments·PT6M41S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction & Content Overview
•High Cross Shield: Foundation & Mechanics
•High Cross Shield: Solo Counter Limitations
•High Cross Shield: Reactive Timing Advantage

Eric Hardeman: Uses of the Crossed Shiel - 0:20 Cody "The Northern Hussar": Uses of Prime thrust in Rapier - 3:35 Want your question answered on video? Consider checking out our Patreon. We're saving up for new filming equipment, so it's a win/win! ;) - https://www.patreon.com/bloodandironhema Swords used in video: Longswords - Blackhorse Blades Rapiers: Nicole - Custom Castille Rapier, Julian: Del Tin blade with Darkwood Armory hilt.

Related Techniques

Chest Cut Head Cut

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about flank cut?

This video covers introduction & content overview, high cross shield: foundation & mechanics, high cross shield: solo counter limitations. It provides detailed instruction from Blood and Iron HEMA.

How long does it take to learn flank cut?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 10-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.