I am Roland Warzecha, a professional illustrator – and a swordsman. Hence the name ‘Dimicator’ which is a Latin term meaning sword fighter. I present to you cutting-edge research into historical martial arts, and Viking & high medieval sword & shield fighting in particular. I am co-operating with museums, fellow martial artists and scholars worldwide. Renowned expert for historical arms, Dr Alfred Geibig, says: “The careful reconstruction of historical swordsmanship, impressively demonstrated by Mr. Warzecha, is a valuable supplement to archaeological insights, and clearly proves the efficiency of European swords and the sophistication of the associated historical fighting arts.” To get regular up-dates on the archaeology and history of sword & shield and how they were used, sign up for my newsletter! I would be delighted if you would join my quest.
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Master Timing, Dominate the FightDear Fellow Sword Fighters, If you’re like me—a mere mortal—mastering timing is key to success in sword-fighting. But most medieval treatises don’t address it. A coherent theory of timing (tempo) doesn’t emerge until the Renaissance. However, the rules of tempo always apply, whether we recognise them or not. Our new online course, Counterbound!, offers a concise, practical introduction to timing/tempo, helping you regain control in critical moments. In just 30+ minutes, we show how to handle a common fencing dilemma, with insights that apply to all sword traditions—not just sword-and-buckler. Learn to dominate blade binds by understanding tempo—not just leverage or blade position. For only $50, you’ll get lifelong access and a coupon for 50% off our foundational I.33 course. Better still, owning Course 1 secures you the best value when Course 2 launches next year. Cyber Monday deals don’t get better. Act now—don’t let time slip away!
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Dimicator
I am Roland Warzecha, a professional illustrator – and a swordsman. Hence the name ‘Dimicator’ which is a Latin term meaning sword fighter. I present to you cutting-edge research into historical martial arts, and Viking & high medieval sword & shield fighting in particular. I am co-operating with museums, fellow martial artists and scholars worldwide. Renowned expert for historical arms, Dr Alfred Geibig, says: “The careful reconstruction of historical swordsmanship, impressively demonstrated by Mr. Warzecha, is a valuable supplement to archaeological insights, and clearly proves the efficiency of European swords and the sophistication of the associated historical fighting arts.” To get regular up-dates on the archaeology and history of sword & shield and how they were used, sign up for my newsletter! I would be delighted if you would join my quest.
When Will the Book Be Released? Making a full-size drawing of the remains of an VLBERHT blade Dear fellow researchers and martial arts enthusiasts, At the Berlin Buckler Bouts in November 2024, some of my Czech friends asked me the question I hear often: When will the long-awaited first book finally be released? I wish I had a definitive answer—alas, I don’t. The book, with the working title Sword at Hand, is indeed in progress. It will explore how culture on one hand and combat requirements...
When the Going Gets Rough … Last exit infight: I've managed to seize Emil's Dane-Axe but... “Never wrestle a wrestler!” That’s what Emil said to me after he sent me flying through the air during a practice fight at Ribe VikingeCenter this autumn—or should I say fall? Of course, he was right. Grappling should be part of any swordfighter’s repertoire. Alas, despite Cornelius’ best efforts at Dimicator Schola to improve my poor wrestling skills, I am definitely more adept at keeping my opponent...
Do Left-Handers Form a Consistent Minority Throughout History? The pommel of this type XVI sword displays a clockwise offset, optimal for left-handed use. And if so, why? These intriguing questions lie at the heart of a new research project currently being initiated by Dr. Tim Simon, a philosopher and neurobiologist from the University of Trient. The study will specifically, though not exclusively, explore the relevance of left-handedness in antagonistic and duelling contexts, where it is...