Introduction to the Zwerchhau
The Zwerchhau, or cross strike, is presented as one of the most effective and fastest strikes in longsword combat. Instructors Aaron Shabir and Josh Lucas demonstrate this versatile technique that functions simultaneously as both an offensive and defensive tool.
Fundamental Mechanics and Guard Position
The Zwerchhau typically originates from a thumb-on-top guard, executing a high horizontal cut across the body aimed at the opponent's head or torso while keeping the hilt elevated for head defense. The sword maintains vertical blade flats with edges to the sides, allowing the practitioner to defend against incoming cuts from above while attacking.
Edge Selection and Multi-Cut Application
Practitioners employ the short edge when attacking from their right toward the opponent's left, and the long edge when attacking from left to right. The technique's key advantage lies in executing multiple consecutive cuts while maintaining sword position in front of the body for continuous defense.
Wrapping and Second-Intent Tactics
If the opponent blocks the initial Zwerchhau, the attacker can wrap around their sword to continue striking, particularly if the defender grips low on the pommel. Stepping back and pivoting allows the blade to rotate around the opponent's sword, creating a second-intent cut that is difficult to defend.
Maintaining Upper Body Coverage
Practitioners must keep their hands elevated and positioned in front of their body throughout all variations of the Zwerchhau, even when targeting lower targets. This hand position ensures continuous defensive coverage and prevents exposing the head while maintaining offensive momentum.
Offensive Follow-ups from the Bind
When the initial Zwerchhau is defended and the swords bind, two primary options emerge depending on blade contact. If gaining the weak of the opponent's blade, the attacker executes a Mutieren with a thrust; if the bind is strong and close, a Duplieren directed at the head maintains contact with the opponent's sword.
Defensive Strategy Against Zwerchhau
A horizontal Zwerchhau to the head is poorly defended with a vertical ox guard, as the swords run parallel and the attacker can slip over or under the defense. Effective counters include meeting the strike with an Oberhau or laying the long edge across the incoming blade at approximately a 90-degree angle.
Counter to Multiple Zwerchhau Combinations
As the opponent initiates a second Zwerchhau, the defender can execute a short counter-cut to the attacker's neck from an extended plow guard position, switching from a long-edge lay to a short-edge cut. This reaction must occur with minimal delay, as the Zwerchhau's speed allows little time for deliberate decision-making.
Alternative Counter Using the Wind
When facing multiple Zwerchhau combinations, the defender can wind across to catch the incoming strike at a high hanging point with proper blade angle, then thrust to lower openings. This counter positions the sword to intercept the cutting arc while setting up an immediate thrust to vulnerable target areas.
Zwerchhau, Basics and Counters: Longsword Lesson 9
Key Takeaways
- •Introduction to the Zwerchhau
- •Fundamental Mechanics and Guard Position
- •Edge Selection and Multi-Cut Application
- •Wrapping and Second-Intent Tactics
The Zwerchhau is perhaps the most highly recommended technique in Liechtenauer's art. We offer here our understanding of the master cut itself and some of the counters to it. It is beyond the scope of this video series to cover every nuance of the Zwerchhau. We will cover some other related material next week, so stay tuned. As always, we try to remain open-minded to other interpretations, and ask you to do the same. Thanks for watching!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this video teach about zwerchhau?
This video covers introduction to the zwerchhau, fundamental mechanics and guard position, edge selection and multi-cut application. It provides detailed instruction from Sword Carolina.
How long does it take to learn zwerchhau?
The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 9-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.
What are the key details for finishing zwerchhau?
As the opponent initiates a second Zwerchhau, the defender can execute a short counter-cut to the attacker's neck from an extended plow guard position, switching from a long-edge lay to a short-edge cut. This reaction must occur with minimal delay, as the Zwerchhau's speed allows little time for deliberate decision-making.
Related videos
Learn the Art of Combat: Longsword Guards - Beginners Guide
Björn Rüther
Zwerchhau, Slices and Throw: Longsword Lesson 10
Sword Carolina
Drills for the Zornhau/Centerline
SuperiorHEMA
Learn the Art of Combat: Longsword Guards - Beginners Guide
Björn Rüther
Longsword Techniques: ZornhauWinden Duplieren Mutieren
Adelaide Sword Academy