Resources & Knowledge
Essential texts, manuscripts, and equipment guides to deepen your understanding of Historical European Martial Arts
Historical Manuscripts & Treatises
Study the original sources that preserve the fighting arts of medieval and renaissance Europe. These treatises form the foundation of modern HEMA practice.
MS I.33 ("Tower Fechtbuch")
The earliest known European fighting manual, featuring sword and buckler techniques. Essential for understanding the foundations of medieval swordsmanship.
View on Wiktenauer →Flos Duellatorum
Comprehensive fighting system covering longsword, dagger, wrestling, and mounted combat. The "Flower of Battle" remains one of the most complete martial treatises.
View Manuscript →Kunst des Fechtens
The German longsword tradition including works by Sigmund Ringeck, Peter von Danzig, and Joachim Meyer. Core curriculum for German longsword study.
Explore Tradition →De la Philosophie des Armes
Detailed treatise on Spanish rapier fighting with geometric principles. Features the famous "Mysterious Circle" and precise footwork diagrams.
Study the Text →Essential Modern References
Contemporary scholarship and instructional texts that interpret historical sources for modern practitioners.
The Art of Combat: A German Martial Arts Treatise of 1570
Modern translation and interpretation of Meyer's comprehensive fighting manual. Excellent for understanding late period German techniques.
Find on Amazon →The Medieval Longsword
Practical guide to Fiore's longsword system with clear explanations and training exercises. Perfect for beginners and intermediate practitioners.
Author's Website →Rapier: Combat Manual
Comprehensive guide to Italian rapier fencing based on historical sources including Agrippa, Giganti, and Capoferro.
Publisher Website →The Art and History of Personal Combat
Historical overview of European martial arts from ancient times through the renaissance. Excellent context for understanding HEMA's place in history.
Available at Local LibrariesEquipment & Safety Gear
Essential gear recommendations for safe and effective HEMA training. Quality equipment is crucial for proper technique development and injury prevention.
Longsword Training Equipment
Complete gear setup for safe longsword practice and sparring.
Essential Items:
- Fencing mask (350N minimum)
- Padded jacket (800N protection)
- Heavy gloves (Red Dragon, SPES, etc.)
- Leg protection (knee guards + shins)
- Gorget (throat protection)
- Synthetic longsword (Rawlings, Red Dragon)
Recommended Suppliers:
Rapier & Single Sword Gear
Lighter protection suited for rapier and sidesword training.
Essential Items:
- Fencing mask (standard 350N)
- Light padded jacket or gambeson
- Rapier gloves (lighter, more flexible)
- Light leg protection
- Synthetic rapier or training blade
Training Weapons:
- Synthetic rapiers (Rawlings, Cold Steel)
- Steel training rapiers (Castille, Danelli)
- Sidesword trainers
Saber Training Setup
Equipment for military saber and backsword training.
Essential Items:
- Fencing mask with back-of-head protection
- Padded jacket (reinforced arms)
- Heavy gloves with wrist protection
- Leg protection (especially leading leg)
- Training sabers (synthetic or steel)
Historical Patterns:
- 1796 Light Cavalry Saber
- 1822 Infantry Officer's Sword
- Hungarian/Polish Saber styles
Budget-Friendly Starter Kit
Cost-effective options for new practitioners to get started safely.
Minimum Safety Gear (€300-400):
- Basic fencing mask (€80-100)
- Padded jacket or thick gambeson (€100-150)
- Entry-level gloves (€80-120)
- Synthetic training sword (€40-60)
- Basic leg protection (€30-50)
Online Resources & Communities
Wiktenauer
The largest online repository of historical fencing manuals with transcriptions, translations, and interpretations.
Visit Wiktenauer →HEMA Alliance
International organization promoting HEMA with resources, event calendar, and club directory.
HEMA Alliance →YouTube Channels
Recommended channels for video instruction and technique analysis.