Combat

Armored Combat

Step onto the battlefield and experience the thunderous clash of steel (or, rather, rattan!) in Rattan Combat, also known as Armored Combat or Heavy Combat, in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). This is where the medieval dream of fully armored knights and warriors comes to life!

Rattan Combat is a full-contact martial art where participants wear extensive, historically inspired protective armor and wield blunted weapons crafted from rattan. Rattan, a type of flexible wood similar to bamboo, is chosen for its unique properties: it's durable enough to withstand forceful blows but breaks in a way that minimizes dangerous splintering, making it a safe alternative to live steel for this form of combat.

Fighters engage in unchoreographed combat, from individual tournaments to large-scale melees and even "wars" involving hundreds of combatants. The focus is on delivering impactful, decisive blows to "kill" or "wound" an opponent, as determined by a system of honor among the combatants themselves, overseen by trained safety officers (marshals).

The armor worn by combatants covers all vital areas, including the head, neck, hands, joints (knees, elbows, shoulders), and torso. While some fighters meticulously recreate historical armor, others use a variety of modern materials alongside period-appropriate designs to ensure both safety and historical aesthetic.

Rattan Combat is more than just hitting sticks; it's a physically demanding and mentally engaging activity that requires strength, endurance, tactical thinking, and a deep understanding of medieval combat principles. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the excitement and challenge of medieval warfare in a safe and structured environment.

Whether you envision yourself as a valiant knight, a fierce warrior, or simply want to try a truly unique and active hobby, Rattan Combat in the SCA provides an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure and a deeper connection to the martial heritage of the Middle Ages.

Rapier Fighting

Step into the world of historical dueling with Rapier fighting in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). This dynamic and elegant combat form is a cornerstone of the SCA's martial arts offerings, bringing to life the sophisticated swordplay of the Renaissance.

Rapier fighting in the SCA emphasizes the use of the historical rapier, a civilian sword popular from the late 16th to the mid-17th century. Participants learn and apply the intricate techniques found in historical fencing treatises, focusing on precision, agility, and strategic footwork, rather than relying on heavy armor or blunt force.

Fighters wear protective gear designed to absorb impact while still allowing for the fluid movements characteristic of historical rapier combat. They wield blunted steel rapiers, often combined with off-hand parrying devices such as daggers (main gauche), cloaks, or bucklers, to recreate the authentic fighting styles of the period.

The focus of Rapier fighting is on controlled, accurate "touches" to valid target areas. This requires a deep understanding of historical fencing principles, including distance (measure), timing (tempo), and the intention behind each movement. It's a martial art that demands both physical skill and mental acuity, offering a challenging and rewarding experience.

Whether you're fascinated by the grace of the rapier, eager to learn historical fencing techniques, or simply looking for an engaging and active hobby, Rapier fighting in the SCA provides a unique opportunity to explore the art and science of historical swordplay in a safe and welcoming environment. Join us and experience the thrill of the blade!

Cut and Thrust

For those who dream of the swift, precise duels of the Renaissance, the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) offers Cut and Thrust fighting. This exciting combat form focuses on the rapier and other light weapons, emphasizing speed, agility, and intricate footwork over brute force.

Unlike the heavily armored combat found in other SCA martial arts, Cut and Thrust fighters wear lighter, yet still highly protective, gear. This allows for a more fluid and dynamic style, closely mimicking the historical techniques of fencing masters from the 16th and 17th centuries. Participants utilize blunted steel blades, often paired with off-hand parrying devices such as daggers (main gauche), cloaks, or bucklers, to simulate authentic historical combat.

Cut and Thrust is a highly technical and mentally engaging discipline. Fighters strive for accurate "touches" to specific target areas, demonstrating their mastery of historical fencing principles like measure, tempo, and intention. It's a fantastic way to explore the artistry and strategy of historical European martial arts in a safe and engaging environment.

Whether you're drawn to the elegance of the rapier, the versatility of the dagger, or the challenge of mastering historical techniques, Cut and Thrust in the SCA offers a unique and rewarding experience for both new and experienced martial artists. Come and experience the thrill of the duel!

Rebated Steel

For those seeking to delve even deeper into the historical reality of medieval tournament fighting, the SCA offers Rebated Steel Combat, also known as Armored Steel Combat. This advanced discipline allows participants to wield blunted, but very real, steel weapons in armored, one-on-one combat, providing a unique and authentic experience.

Rebated Steel Combat focuses on recreating the specific techniques and atmosphere of medieval armored tournaments, particularly those involving longswords and arming swords. Unlike the rattan combat form, which uses flexible wooden weapons, this discipline employs steel blades that have been "rebated" – meaning their edges and tips are blunted to a safe standard for striking.

Participants in Rebated Steel Combat wear robust, historically-inspired full armor that meets stringent safety requirements. This armor is designed to protect against the force of steel blows, allowing for full-speed, impactful exchanges that closely mimic historical engagements.

A key difference from other SCA combat forms is that blows in Rebated Steel Combat are typically judged by marshals or a panel of observers, rather than relying solely on the combatants calling their own blows. This approach helps maintain consistency and emphasizes the skill and accuracy of the techniques. While thrusting is generally not permitted for safety reasons, fighters aim for well-placed, powerful cuts to score points and demonstrate their mastery of the weapon.

Rebated Steel Combat is a serious and demanding martial art that requires significant investment in both training and high-quality armor. It appeals to those who are passionate about historical European martial arts and desire the most immersive and authentic armored combat experience the SCA contributes. If you're ready for the challenge of fighting in full steel, this discipline brings the intensity and artistry of medieval tournaments to life.

Youth Fighting

The SCA believes that the love of history and martial arts can begin at any age! Youth Fighting in the SCA offers a safe, engaging, and age-appropriate way for young people to participate in our combat activities, learning discipline, sportsmanship, and historical fighting techniques.

This program is designed for youths typically aged 6 to 17, with specific rules and equipment tailored to different age groups to ensure maximum safety and fun. Just like the adult combat forms, Youth Fighting emphasizes historical authenticity and respectful interaction.

What does Youth Fighting involve?

• Padded Weapons: Young fighters primarily use highly padded, lightweight weapons, often made from foam or other soft materials. These "boffers" allow for full-speed, exciting combat without the risk associated with heavier materials.
• Protective Gear: Participants wear essential protective gear, including head protection (helmets), hand protection (gloves), and other appropriate padding, all designed to meet strict safety standards.
• Age-Appropriate Rules: Combat rules are modified for each age bracket, focusing on skill development, controlled movements, and ensuring a positive experience for all participants.
• Focus on Skills and Fun: Youth Fighting is not just about swinging swords. Participants learn fundamental martial arts principles like footwork, defense, and offense. More importantly, they develop teamwork, perseverance, and excellent sportsmanship.
• Supervised by Marshals: All youth fighting activities are overseen by trained and authorized marshals who ensure safety rules are followed and provide guidance and instruction.

Youth Fighting provides a fantastic opportunity for young enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of knights, warriors, and historical combat. It's a wonderful way to build confidence, get active, and make friends while exploring the martial traditions of the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Come join our younger generation of warriors!