Rapier

The rapier is the ultimate gentleman’s weapon of the renaissance. It was the first weapon to be tailored to civilian duels and is one of the most popular weapons in modern HEMA.

Rapier at TAS is done according to a number of different systems. In Hobart, students can learn the rapier systems of Saviolo (1595), Swetnam (1617 or Giganti (1606). Vincentio Saviolo was an Italian who taught and wrote in England and he taught a hybrid Italian/Spanish system with shorter rapiers. It relies on the circular movements common in Spanish rapier fencing.

Joseph Swetnam was an English Master who taught an indigenous system that in many principles is similar to Silver’s sword system. It features a primary guard made with the point not directed at the opponent and is very defensive in nature.

Giganti is one of the three most important Italian masters of the early 17th century and describes a very sophisticated system of fencing that involves controlling the opponent’s blade to allow attacks to be made while covered. Giganti is often said to have invented the lunge and although that’s not true (see video below) he cemented it as the primary means of attack with the rapier.