Introduction to Master Cuts

Master Cuts—also known as hidden strikes, secret strikes, or five strikes—are five fundamental techniques in German longsword fighting: the Zornhau, Krumphau, Zwerchhau, Schildhau, and Schielhau. Documented by Lichtenauer, Meyer, and other German fencing masters, these techniques were specifically designed for unarmored combat. Their primary objective is to simultaneously attack and defend while breaking an opponent's guard and seizing the initiative.

Zornhau: Tactical Application of the Oberhau

The Zornhau is the simplest master cut and applies the basic descending Oberhau tactically. The practitioner begins with the sword held over the right shoulder or directly overhead, then cuts at the opponent's head while stepping forward and offline to the right as the opponent commits to their own cut. The blade displaces the incoming strike while connecting with the head, or if distance permits, the point lines up with the face to deliver a follow-up thrust called the Zornort.

Structure and Geometry in the Zornhau

Proper structure in the Zornhau requires leading with the sword's tip rather than the hands, which would compromise the technique's effectiveness. Correct geometry is equally critical: stepping only forward brings the practitioner into the opponent's line of attack, while stepping offline to the right creates sufficient distance to land the strike safely. Attacking the opponent's body—not the sword—maintains the initiative necessary to control the engagement.

Zwerchhau: Interrupting Descending Cuts

The Zwerchhau is most effective for breaking or interrupting descending cuts and requires a grip change from the standard handshake grip to a thumb grip. The practitioner initiates rotation while sliding the thumb up the handle, using both hands to power the sword as it travels out and across the body. Stepping offline to the right side of the body ensures the blade cuts through the opponent's head rather than merely at it, interrupting their strike at the optimal moment.

Krumphau: Against Thrusts and Forward Guards

The Krumphau, or crooked strike, effectively counters thrusts and point-forward guards. Beginning from above the right shoulder or head, the practitioner switches from handshake to thumb grip while stepping forward with the lead leg opposite the sword. The true edge of the blade strikes across the opponent's sword and binds or traps their hands, allowing for follow-up techniques such as a thrust or false-edge cut.

Schildhau: The Squinting Strike

The Schildhau, or squinting strike, begins with the sword on the shoulder or overhead and involves a grip change to thumb grip as the opponent attacks. The practitioner turns the false edge of the sword to intercept the incoming blade while simultaneously striking at the head. By stepping offline and positioning the hands higher than in a standard descending cut, the practitioner intercepts the opponent's sword on the strong of the blade.

Schielhau: Quick Strike to the Head

The Schielhau is a rapid snap directed at the top of the opponent's head and can be used to come over the opponent's sword or force them to raise their guard in preparation for an underneath strike. This technique's versatility makes it a valuable option in various combat scenarios. It maintains the principle of simultaneous attack and defense inherent to all master strikes.

Integration and Application of Master Strikes

Master Cuts are fundamental to German longsword fighting and are documented by all major German fencing masters due to their ability to simultaneously attack and defend. While various interpretations exist across different lineages and traditions, mastering these five techniques significantly improves a practitioner's overall swordsmanship and tactical options. Understanding and practicing these strikes provides essential tools for controlling tempo and initiative in armed combat.

All 5 German Longsword "Hidden" Master Cuts

Blood and Iron HEMA

Head Cut

3 min read·8 key moments·PT5M3S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Master Cuts
•Zornhau: Tactical Application of the Oberhau
•Structure and Geometry in the Zornhau
•Zwerchhau: Interrupting Descending Cuts

The master cuts, (sometimes referred to as the "hidden" cuts) can be found in every German longsword source, and even some of the German Messer sources. Cold Funk by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3522-cold-funk License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Related Techniques

Chest Cut Flank Cut

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about head cut?

This video covers introduction to master cuts, zornhau: tactical application of the oberhau, structure and geometry in the zornhau. It provides detailed instruction from Blood and Iron HEMA.

How long does it take to learn head cut?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.