THE NEEDS OF STAGE COMBAT

Often we are asked, "Are Armart's swords good for stage combat?" That entirely depends on how they are going to be used, and what everyone else in your troupe is using.

The term "stage combat" is often a confusing term because it does not fully describe whether the future sword owner will be part of a professional theatrical fighting troupe, or an SCA recreationist, or simply an inspired backyard tree destroyer! Each application is different and would use the sword differently.

Therefore we must first define what the owner of the sword belongs to, and what tools are already being used, and how the Armart sword will be used.

Use of Swords in Stage Combat (Professional Theatrical Fighting)

Stage Combat - or Professional Theatrical Fighting - is a choreographed fight sequence for the purpose of entertainment. This kind of stage combat does not necessarily embody proper historical use of the weapon (i.e. avoidance of static edge blocks or edge-on-edge fighting which would normally destroy a historical knightly sword's edge) because the focus is dramatic value and not so much a delivery of precise period fighting style.

With this application, we may recommend either a Flat Edge or a Blunt Edge for safety reasons. However, note that even flat edges can sear, and blunt edges can even cut and pierce. Be careful. Always practice slowly.

Certain rapiers in the Armart line can be requested with lighter stage blades (more slender) or regular rapier blades (good for martial arts).

We generally recommend using swords of equivalent manufacture for all parties because doing so allows you to lengthen the life of your investment. Different makers use different materials and edge thicknesses. A blunt Armart sword may be slightly heavier than an aluminum prop, but the blunt edge could damage the softer aluminum prop blade. Aluminum does not last as long as steel, so if other troupe members are using aluminum weapons, you may opt for a more rounded edge to minimize damage against an aluminum weapon.

Use of Swords in Recreational Mock Fighting

Some use swords to just do or perform "make-believe" fighting. This is not necessarily stage combat in the sense of a choreographed pre-rehearsed fight sequence. People naturally want to pretend to be Highlander, Conan or their favorite knight or hero.

Will an Armart sword do well against other brands? This all depends on what others are using. Remember that a sword must obey the laws of physics. There are many people who use historically inaccurate Sword-Like Objects (SLOs) that are heavier and thick-edged. Now on the historical battlefield, such a weapon would get you killed and tire you easily, and would not lend to proper technique. But for the recreationist who does not know how to do deflections with the flat of his blade but is forced to intercept his "opponent's" blade with the edge of his sword, the SLO would survive in the long run.

The swords by Armart are not SLOs but are historically accurate reproductions for those who are more discriminating in their needs of authenticity. For recreational fighting, we would recommend a Flat Edge. However, against a crowbar-like SLO, a 2mm edge might not stand against a 7-9 mm edge. However, the SLO would be much heavier than the Armart sword.

Just because a prop is heavier or thicker, it does not mean it's a better sword. A stage combat prop is simply that: a prop. It is not a real sword. There is a place for props, but if your need is to use a blunted real sword in mock combat, may we suggest having your friends use similar swords by Armart, with flat edges, to maximize safety and your recreational pleasure.

Additional Reading: What Swords Can and Cannot Do - Myths and Misconceptions about swords, and the do's and don'ts of sword usage.