Opening Attacks: Double Middle Strikes
The practitioner begins with two middle strikes from alternating left and right positions against the halberd and counterpart. These strikes serve dual purposes: creating space for the final upper cut while simultaneously intimidating the opponent through powerful blows. Practitioners should be prepared for the possibility of axe blades becoming entangled during execution.
Counterattack from Field Guard
When responding to an opponent's thrust, the fencer deflects the attack to the left while in field guard position. The halberd is then circled around the head while simultaneously moving the front hand to the lower end of the staff. This coordinated movement generates significant momentum for a forceful counterattack.
Defensive Parry Against Strikes
An incoming strike is caught and controlled using the middle section of the halberd staff between both hands. The practitioner must maintain distance awareness and secure hand positioning throughout the parry. From this defensive position, the fencer gains multiple options: winding, thrusting, pushing, or striking depending on tactical circumstances.
Diagonal Strike Defense and Recovery
Against diagonal cuts from below, whether originating from left or right, the fencer executes a cutting deflection from below. This defensive action both protects against the opponent's strike and creates opportunities for stepping or striking. If the opponent avoids the counter blow, the fencer must immediately regain control of the weapon and continue engagement toward the next opening.
Offensive vs. Defensive Philosophy
Halberd technique encompasses two primary strategies: forceful offensive attacks and calculated counterattacks. While combat circumstances often dictate reactive responses regardless of preference, practitioners should develop proficiency in their preferred fighting style. The choice between aggressive and passive approaches reflects individual strength, control, and tactical disposition.
Halberd-Specific Characteristics
The halberd differs fundamentally from the sword, emphasizing strength and body control as primary attributes. While traditional fencing principles—reaction time, technique, and speed—remain important, the halberd's weight requires deliberate assessment of physical capability. Practitioners must honestly evaluate whether they possess sufficient strength and commitment to generate adequate pressure in offensive actions.
Legitimacy of Reactive Fighting
The passive, counter-oriented approach to halberd fighting proves equally valid as aggressive tactics. Using counteradvantage positioning and reactive techniques provides an effective alternative fighting methodology. This approach is extensively documented in pike literature and represents a completely legitimate tactical choice for practitioners of varying physical capabilities.
Learn the Art of Combat - Halberd Fighting Techniques - Part Two
Key Takeaways
- •Opening Attacks: Double Middle Strikes
- •Counterattack from Field Guard
- •Defensive Parry Against Strikes
- •Diagonal Strike Defense and Recovery
Four Halberd plays from Joachim Meyers book about the knightly art of swordsmanship - 1570 A.D. The plays can be found on page 34verso (XXXIIII) and 38verso (XXXVIII) in the last chapter of the original book found here: https://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de/0002/bsb00024580/images/index.html?fip=193.174.98.30&id=00024580&seite=1 PS: Obviously NOT exclusive for formation fighting. Meyers manuscript shows mostly techniques for a duel! But you can use many of the concepts also for formation battles like thrusting or striking in a tighter way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about standard spear thrust?
This video covers opening attacks: double middle strikes, counterattack from field guard, defensive parry against strikes. It provides detailed instruction from Björn Rüther.
How long does it take to learn standard spear thrust?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing standard spear thrust?
The halberd differs fundamentally from the sword, emphasizing strength and body control as primary attributes. While traditional fencing principles—reaction time, technique, and speed—remain important, the halberd's weight requires deliberate assessment of physical capability. Practitioners must honestly evaluate whether they possess sufficient strength and commitment to generate adequate pressure in offensive actions.
