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[NRDL]

A general thread for swords and all sword-fighting related shenanigans.  As an admirer of the longsword, I'd love to learn how to actually use it, so any actual advice regarding its study would be appreciated.  What would be a good first step to actually learning historical longsword fencing?

[GiglameshDespair]

Learn by doing. Obtain one and then go conquer French lands for England.

[My Name is Immaterial]

SCA.org is your best shot to get "historical" training, but it's pretty bastardized. I would check out HEMA if you're interested in a more athletic approach.

[Loud Whispers]

Use the pointy end, then abandon swordsmanship for the glory of the pike

[Egan_BW]

Use the pointy end, then abandon swordsmanship for the glory of the pike

Or embrace the overpoweredness of the Longbow (or the long sling.)

[BFEL]

Use the pointy end, then abandon swordsmanship for the glory of the pike

Or embrace the overpoweredness of the Longbow (or the long sling.)

Combine these virtues, CONSTRUCT YOUR BALLISTA TODAY!

[Yoink]

I would say buying one would be a logical first step.
Maybe check out any medieval reenactment groups near you? Whether their methods are historically accurate or not, I'm sure it would still be fun if you appreciate the weapons. I hope one day I manage to conquer my anxiety over such a thing and manage to join one myself...

[SirQuiamus]

in b4 glorious nippon steel

[Teneb]

in b4 glorious nippon steel

Glorious Iberia steel. Folded over 1000 times. Can cut through anything. Filthy franks go home. All praise the glory of the halberd, the greatest melee weapon.

[Arx]

SCA.org is your best shot to get "historical" training, but it's pretty bastardized. I would check out HEMA if you're interested in a more athletic approach.

Armoured Combat League will also probably be good for longsword fighting.

[Grimlocke]

The HEMA club finder may be of interest: http://www.communitywalk.com/user/view/81443

Most clubs do longsword as its pretty popular, and most offer trial classes and such.

You can of course always do footwork and basic technique drills at home with a stick or whatnot (anything with a handle and a bit of weight), just be sure not bash it into anything valuable And keep in mind that solo practice is not very efficient, and will not get you very far without proper instruction.

[Furtuka]

Yay PTW. I was very interested when the Chicago swordplay guild gave a demonstration at my local public library a few years back, but sadly my hometown was too far away from chicago to make it worth joining their classes.

[Gamerboy4life]

in b4 glorious nippon steel

[Swordstar]

Sords.

So yeah, if you want historical fencing, there do exist historical fencing clubs/lessons, you should look into it. Buying a sword is probably not the best way if you actually want to learn the old school way of doing things. If you just want to have fun with a sword, then sure go ahead and buy one.

(Just remember, stick them with the pointy end)

[redwallzyl]

Sords.

So yeah, if you want historical fencing, there do exist historical fencing clubs/lessons, you should look into it. Buying a sword is probably not the best way if you actually want to learn the old school way of doing things. If you just want to have fun with a sword, then sure go ahead and buy one.

(Just remember, stick them with the pointy end)

alternatively you can bash them with the pummel.