Introduction to the Disengage

The disengage is a fundamental rapier technique used when an opponent controls the blade through contact. This technique allows the fencer to redirect their point away from the opponent's wedge and create an offensive opportunity.

Understanding the Problem

When an opponent creates a wedge and displaces the sword, immediate action is required to prevent being struck. Without a corrective technique, the fencer remains vulnerable to the opponent's attack.

Executing the Disengage Motion

As the opponent takes the tip off-line, the fencer relaxes their grip to allow the blade tip to drop beneath the opponent's blade. This is accomplished through relaxation rather than wrist motion, which would create a slow, inefficient movement.

Completing the Disengage

After the tip clears the opponent's blade beneath the contact point, the fencer squeezes their grip to bring the tip up on the opposite side. This two-phase motion—relax and squeeze—forms the complete disengage.

Basic Exercise: Target Acquisition

The foundational drill involves disengaging, immediately finding the target with the point, and executing a lunge. This exercise establishes the fundamental mechanics of the technique in a controlled setting.

Maintaining Initiative After the Disengage

Pausing after a disengage allows the opponent to reestablish their wedge and regain advantage. The fencer must immediately press forward, creating their own wedge while advancing toward the target.

Intermediate Practice with a Partner

Once basic proficiency is achieved, the fencer should practice against a resisting opponent who actively creates wedges. This develops the ability to disengage consistently under realistic defensive pressure.

Advanced Application: Speed Pressure

The final progression involves striking the target before the opponent can recreate their wedge after the disengage. This advanced timing requirement demands both technical precision and controlled speed development.

Rapier Champion Teaches how to Disengage & Stab!

Blood and Iron HEMA

Disengage

2 min read·8 key moments·PT3M video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to the Disengage
•Understanding the Problem
•Executing the Disengage Motion
•Completing the Disengage

Rapier champion Nicole Smith teaches you how to disengage and then deliver a thrust. Stabby Stabby! Patreon: - https://www.patreon.com/BloodandIronHEMA Music: Pippin the Hunchback by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4219-pippin-the-hunchback License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Related Techniques

Bind Counter-Disengage Coupe

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about disengage?

This video covers introduction to the disengage, understanding the problem, executing the disengage motion. It provides detailed instruction from Blood and Iron HEMA.

How long does it take to learn disengage?

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.