The Swordman-s Companion- A Manual for Training With the Medieval Longsword Description:

The Swordman's Companion: A Manual for Training With the Medieval Longsword review:
5 stars (Excellent) - As a long-time researcher and historical fencer, I can say that this is simply the best non-monographical book on the longsword out there. Guy Windsor is a first-rate teacher, and this comes across plainly in his writing and in the organization of this book.



The book provides enough historical material to demonstrate where the original concepts and techniques can be found, then expands into clearly-defined lessons from a teacher with considerable experience. Many of the common mistakes are identified and advice is given on how to avoid them or correct them. Actions are explained in terms of martial soundness and correct body-mechanics. Illustrations are numerous, clear and relevant.



Furthermore, Guy's writing style is dynamic and interesting, making the Companion a good read as well as a useful training tool.



A high-quality, informative and well-written book that I heartily recommend to all serious students of the late-Medieval sword-arts.
5 stars (A great book for those who want to learn real swordsmanship) - I just got my copy of this book, and I am suitably impressed. This book is mainly based on the Italian masters, notably Fiore di Liberi's work. And as such, the terms given here for the guards and cuts are in italian. Initially described in english as well, but italian after that. Now, this may be confusing for those who are beginners or non-italian speakers. More on this in a minute.



I like the fact that this book contains plenty of one and two person exercises to work through, illustrated with actual photos that are clear and easy to follow. This book also includes warm ups that should be done before practice begins, and some great exercises on body mechanics. You may wonder what being able to keep your balance on one foot has to do with swordsmanship, especially doing this with your eyes closed (Harder than it sounds!). Nothing, and yet, everything. Proper balance, footwork, and body mechanics are essential to good technique, and to avoiding injury. Many training books forget this. This one makes you think about it.



For those needing ideas for a training regimen, there are several sample class/training session outlines provided that can be borrowed or modified to suit the practicioner's needs. There's also some interesting stuff here that some of the other swordsmanship books don't get into, such as offensive use of the sword's pommel and handguard at close range, and some basic throws and grapples.



Now, about that italian language thing- It can be a bit confusing to be reading through the training exercises, and not knowing the italian terminology offhand. And constantly flipping back to the section where it's explained can be awkward. What I've found helps for those who are new to this form of swordsmanship, is to write a little cheat sheet with the italian names for the various guards and cuts, and their english translations, and keep this with the book. When you're reading the instructions, it's easier to refer to your little sheet of notes than to lose the flow of the exercise by flipping back and forth. And this little trick will help you to learn the historical italian terminology too. It's only been a few days, and it's working for me. As with anything, your milage may vary.



Overall, I highly reccomend this book to anyone looking to learn medieval swordsmanship, or to seperate real medieval fighting from hollywood fantasy.
5 stars (A True Manual) - Guy Windsor's book on Italian Longsword (a light two handed sword) is the perfect starting place for anyone wanting to study this weapon. Guy's understanding of basic body mechanics is extraordinary and these are rightfully emphasised. Based firmly in historical Italian sources, Swordsman's Companion contains a sequence of drills, logically ordered and clearly illustrated and explained.



The best way to learn the Italian Longsword is to train with an expert teacher, like Bob Charron or Guy himself. Failing that, Guy's book is a great place to start your studies.



With the recent release of Christian Tobler's excellent "Fighting with the German Longsword", both major systems of medieval longsword play are the subject of well researched, excellently written books. It's a great time to be studying medieval swordsmanship.



Stephen Hand

Author of Medieval Sword and Shield:

The Combat System of Royal Armouries MS. I.33