Introduction to Absetzen and Versetzen

Absetzen and Versetzen are closely related defensive techniques found in the Döbringer manuscript. While Versetzen employs a two-part process of cutting and then thrusting, Absetzen consolidates these actions into a single, continuous motion. Both techniques allow the practitioner to defend against incoming attacks while immediately counter-attacking.

Versetzen: Basic Mechanics

Versetzen uses both Oberhaus and Unterhaus cuts to intercept and deflect an opponent's attack with force. Rather than passively blocking, the practitioner cuts into the incoming attack, immediately taking control of the bind and setting up a rapid follow-up thrust. This approach emphasizes active defense through offensive motion.

Döbringer's Simplified Approach

The Döbringer manuscript treats Versetzen more simply than other sources such as von Danzig or Ringeck, focusing on defending against attacks regardless of the opponent's guard rather than addressing specific stances. Döbringer prioritizes the fundamental four cuts—two Oberhaus and two Unterhaus from both sides—as the primary means of defending any opening and setting up counter-attacks.

Absetzen: Unified Motion

Absetzen differs from Versetzen by combining the defensive cut and offensive thrust into one fluid action. The most basic example is responding to a thrust from Plow by thrusting back from Plow while collecting the opponent's blade. This single, continuous motion requires immediate reaction and precise timing to succeed.

Hand Placement and Range Control

The critical principle in executing Absetzen is moving the hands before the feet. By collecting the opponent's sword with the hands first, the practitioner can assess the distance and adjust footwork accordingly. This hand-first approach allows for superior range management and prevents the feet from dictating positioning prematurely.

Absetzen Against Overhead Cuts

When an opponent executes an Oberhaus, the practitioner can respond with an Unterhaus cut that immediately transitions into a thrust. The Unterhaus is preferred because it places the point on line faster, eliminating extra work in the bind. The practitioner must ensure adequate height and a full wind with proper cross-guard protection to prevent the opponent's blade from passing overhead or striking the hands.

Defensive Positioning and Hand Protection

Proper execution of Absetzen requires sufficient height in the cut to ensure the practitioner's head remains protected. A complete wind into Rocken with proper edge orientation and cross-guard positioning prevents the opponent's sword from sliding down the outside and striking the hands. This defensive geometry must be maintained even while executing the immediate thrust.

Practice and Application

Both Absetzen and Versetzen should be practiced with a training partner using appropriate protective equipment. These techniques reward deliberate, repeated practice to develop the timing and spatial awareness necessary for reliable execution. Practitioners should experiment with different scenarios and distances to internalize the range management principles underlying both techniques.

Versetzen and Absetzen: Longsword Lesson 16

Sword Carolina

Absetzen

3 min read·8 key moments·PT5M47S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Absetzen and Versetzen
•Versetzen: Basic Mechanics
•Döbringer's Simplified Approach
•Absetzen: Unified Motion

A pair of techniques this week from MS 3227a, or the Döbringer manuscript. While other masters go into more detail in these techniques, the author of the Döbringer manuscript keeps it very simple, as he often does. Both of these techniques defend against an attack while immediately setting up a counterattack. Versetzen uses a cut to do this, and Absetzen, a thrust. As always these are our interpretations from MS 3227a. We benefit from the respectful opinions of others, as they hopefully do from us. Please feel free to subscribe for regular, quality content related to HEMA. Thanks!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about absetzen?

This video covers introduction to absetzen and versetzen, versetzen: basic mechanics, döbringer's simplified approach. It provides detailed instruction from Sword Carolina.

How long does it take to learn absetzen?

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.