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.
If You Have Superhuman Reaction Time, Skip This!
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.
A Famous Viking Age Sword Made for a Left-Hander My friend Alban's favourite sword Hello fellow sword and history enthusiasts, It’s not often that you get to see this exceptionally well-preserved sword outside the British Museum. With its wide fuller inscribed LEUTLRIT and an Anglo-Danish hilt adorned with geometric inlays, it is an outstanding piece. Note the slightly off-centre and tilted montage of the pommel But what I find most intriguing are the subtle asymmetries in the hilt...
The Fencing Bridegroom Swordsmen's distinguished summer fashion Hello sword-and-buckler enthusiasts and fashion victims, My fellow buckler fighter and researcher Cornelius Berthold was married this past weekend. The occasion provided a splendid opportunity for some early-morning fencing before breakfast—and, notably, for swordplay in suits. The latter was suggested by photographer Jonas Radtke, and I’m very much looking forward to seeing the resulting images. There can be only one! In the...
Are We But Brutal Primates? Chimps make war, bonobos make love. What about us? (My illustration) Hello fellow history enthusiasts, I suspect many of you share my feeling that we are living through particularly unusual and turbulent times. While I generally make a conscious effort to maintain a positive outlook and focus on the good, I must admit this has grown increasingly difficult in recent years. Stupidity, ignorance and brutality seem all too prominent among our species at present....