Introduction to Durchwechseln with Krumphau

This instructional segment covers the Durchwechseln (changing through) combined with Krumphau (crumpling strike), a longsword technique with limited documentation in modern martial arts resources. The instructors present their interpretation of this classical technique and welcome constructive feedback from the martial arts community.

Krumphau Fundamentals

The Krumphau is executed by striking with the long edge from the strong side with crossed hands, moving across the body. In standard application, the practitioner steps to the side while striking either into the opponent's sword or against their hands. This segment establishes the basic mechanics before introducing the modified approach.

Modified Krumphau Without Step

Rather than taking a deep step to the right during the Krumphau, the instructors demonstrate executing the strike without a step to maintain positional advantage. This modification allows the practitioner to remain closer to their end position while still achieving the defensive block underneath the opponent's sword.

Winding Over with Thrust

After the Krumphau catch, the practitioner winds the opponent's blade over using their sword's strong against the opponent's weak. This creates pressure that traps the opponent's blade in the crossbar, enabling a follow-up thrust to either the face or lower arm.

Defensive Response to Durchwechseln

When defending against the Durchwechseln attack, the defender can use the strong of their blade to redirect the opponent's pressure. The defender can either step laterally to evade the thrust or maintain position if the attack approaches vertically, allowing them to transition directly into a counter-thrust.

Durchwechseln from Ox Guard

The technique can also be initiated from the Ox Guard position, where the practitioner feints a binding action before executing a short Krumphau underneath the opponent's sword. This unexpected change of direction catches the opponent off-guard and sets up a thrust along the long point of the sword.

Continuation After Defensive Parry

If the opponent successfully parries the thrust, the practitioner remains in the long point with freedom to execute any appropriate follow-up attack based on the opponent's defensive response. This adaptability ensures continuous offensive initiative regardless of the defender's reaction.

Positional Advantage and Follow-ups

The primary benefit of this technique is maintaining offensive control through positional depth. Whether the opponent defends by setting the thrust aside or committing to a counter-action, the practitioner retains the ability to respond with appropriate cuts or further attacks.

Longsword Technique: Durchwechseln with Krumphau

Sword Carolina

Krumphau

2 min read·8 key moments·PT5M36S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Durchwechseln with Krumphau
•Krumphau Fundamentals
•Modified Krumphau Without Step
•Winding Over with Thrust

...or Changing Through with the Crooked Cut. Short video recapping our weekly Longsword lesson. Lesson pulled from the historical manuscripts Cod.44.A.8 (von Danzig) and MS Dresd.C.487 (Ringeck). Check out Wiktenauer.com for more info. Let us know what you think.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about krumphau?

This video covers introduction to durchwechseln with krumphau, krumphau fundamentals, modified krumphau without step. It provides detailed instruction from Sword Carolina.

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.