Military Sabre - Bolognese Sidesword

Service Description

In addition to our thriving longsword program, here at Bridge City Blades we have developed a program for students interested in exploring single-handed sword options, based entirely on historic sources. Within our program you will learn the fundamentals of both saber and sidesword, exploring both the similarities and differences of each. If you harken to the roguish charm of swashbuckling pirates, saber-wielding dragoon cavalry, or nimble musketeers, then single-handed steel is for you! British Military Saber uses dynamic movement while primarily utilizing swift cuts in the attack, although thrusts are not uncommon. The base of our saber curriculum is Henry Charles Angelo’s Infantry Sword Exercise - 1845. The Angelo fencing dynasty originated in Italy before moving to England in the 1750’s, bringing the philosophy of the Italian fight to English soil where it attracted various high-status clients, including the Prince of Wales (future King George III) and the Duke of York. The Angelo system remained the standard for the British Military until 1892 when a new, thrust-focused blade was introduced and required a new manual. The Sidesword (spada sola or single sword) is elegant yet lethal and forms the basis of the Bolognese fencing tradition. Bridging the gap between the cruciform arming sword and the graceful, swept-hilt rapier, the sidesword excels in both cut and thrust while emphasizing the rotation of the body. Our Bolognese Sidesword program is based in Giovanni dall’Agocchie’s The Art of Defense: on Fencing, the Joust, and Battle Formation but incorporates all manner of influences from the Bolognese tradition, including (but not limited to) Manciolino, Marozzo, and Viggiani.