The Atajo (shortcut, or bind/gain) is one of the core techniques of Destreza, similar to the gain/find/stringer in Italian rapier. At its most basic is a bind of the opponent's sword, but it could also be a potential bind (a virtual Atajos). It is also your parry against both cuts and thrusts. Defense Actually, let's briefly start with how to defend against the opponent's attacks (thrust or cuts). It is commonly said that there are three ways to defend: With the right angle

Parts 1, 2, 3, and 4 introduced the key concept in rapier, and showed the hierarchy of actions that stem from a stringer on the inside. ...

As I started to write part 5 (the hierarchy of actions for the outside stringer), I realised I could put the entire list of actions in a...

In part 2 I showed that, when fencer B is stringered on the inside line, they counter this by disengaging and attacking to the outside...

In part 2 , you saw that, for the fencer who has gained a stringer on the inside, they are expecting their opponent to disengage. If you...

In part 1 , I explained that Capo Ferro's rapier is largely based upon stringering. In fact, it is based on just two scenarios:...

This series of posts is based on Ridolfo Capo Ferro da Cagli (1610). My aim is to make this practical and to aid in the teaching of...