Introduction to the Krumphau

Matt Easton of Scholagliatiou introduces the Krumphau, one of the German longsword master blows (Meisterhau), with expert instructor Jeff Tsai from Forte Swordplay. Tsai specializes in Liechtenauer Lineage German swordsmanship and brings extensive experience in historical European martial arts (HEMA) to this technical demonstration.

Etymology and Terminology

The term 'Krumphau' derives from medieval German roots meaning 'crooked cut' or 'bent cut,' though direct translation from historical languages presents inherent challenges. Understanding that Krumphau represents a concept rather than a literal single movement helps practitioners grasp its nuanced application in combat scenarios.

Understanding the Meisterhau System

The Meisterhau (master cuts or master strikes) represent the foundational mechanical and tactical highlights of German longsword methodology. These core techniques enable practitioners to defend efficiently while simultaneously creating offensive opportunities, forming the essential repertoire of the system alongside techniques such as the Schielehau and Zwerthau.

Defensive Efficiency Through Offensive Positioning

The Krumphau's primary advantage lies in its ability to initiate from a defensive posture while immediately transitioning into an offensive position. When executed properly, the technique allows practitioners to pivot quickly from defensive necessity into aggressive action based on tactical circumstances.

The Zwerthau Foundation

The Zwerthau (wrath cut) serves as the initiating attack in this defensive scenario, typically delivered as a diagonal overhead strike from the shoulder with an accompanying step. This fundamental German longsword technique establishes the threat that the Krumphau must address through evasion and counter-positioning.

Defensive Principle: Spring Away

The primary defensive rule when facing an incoming cut is to spring away by stepping offline rather than attempting to block or parry. This evasion principle, documented in historical sources, prevents the defender from remaining in the line of attack while preserving options for immediate counter-action.

The Crooked Cut Mechanics

The Krumphau's defining characteristic emerges from its angular deviation from conventional cutting alignment. While the attacker cuts aligned with their stance (right shoulder, hip, and foot coordinated), the defender cuts from the opposite angle, creating a crossed-plane cut that avoids the direct collision inherent in same-plane opposition.

Avoiding Double-Hit Scenarios

Cutting against an incoming attack along the same plane creates a logical vulnerability: both combatants strike each other simultaneously, resulting in mutual injury. The Krumphau resolves this tactical problem by executing a crooked cut that operates on a different geometric plane than the attacker's initial strike.

SECRET ATTACKS of Medieval German Longsword - Krumphau class with @forteswordplay

scholagladiatoria

Krumphau

2 min read·8 key moments·PT19M28S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Krumphau
•Etymology and Terminology
•Understanding the Meisterhau System
•Defensive Efficiency Through Offensive Positioning

With Jeff Tsay of @forteswordplay looking at one of the Master Strokes from the Liechtenauer tradition of medieval swordsmanship. ▼3 extra EXCLUSIVE videos each month on PATREON, which make this channel possible: https://www.patreon.com/scholagladiatoria ▼Facebook & Twitter updates, info, memes and fun: https://www.facebook.com/historicalfencing/ https://twitter.com/scholagladiato1 ▼Schola Gladiatoria HEMA - sword fighting classes in the UK: https://www.swordfightinglondon.com ▼Matt Easton's website & Pinterest: https://www.matt-easton.co.uk/ https://www.pinterest.co.uk/matt_easton/_saved/ ▼Easton Antique Arms - antique swords for sale: https://www.antique-swords.co.uk #medieval #martialarts #swordsmanship

Related Techniques

Oberhau Unterhau Zornhau Zwerchhau

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about krumphau?

This video covers introduction to the krumphau, etymology and terminology, understanding the meisterhau system. It provides detailed instruction from scholagladiatoria.

How long does it take to learn krumphau?

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.