Sword Grips, Spear & Shield And Course


Escape, Adapt, Overcome

Dear fellow sword enthusiasts, researchers, and history fans,

First of all, Cornelius and I would like to express our gratitude to all the practitioners of historical sword-fighting who have enrolled in our latest online course, Counterbound!. Your positive reception and feedback have been incredibly encouraging, and we are excited to continue our work on the upcoming I.33 course, which will focus on Cover Against Secunda and Tertia Custodia.

Our course Counterbound! offers a concise and practical introduction to timing and tempo, helping you regain control in critical moments. For just $50, you’ll gain lifelong access and receive a coupon for 50% off our foundational I.33 course. Even better, owning Course 1 secures you the best value when Course 2 launches next year.

Start while there's still time!


One-Handed Spear and Viking Round Shield

At the recent Ribe Bouts held at the marvellous Ribe VikingeCenter, my fellow researcher and instructor Mikkel Mønsted delivered a two-part class on fighting with a one-handed spear in combination with a large, centre-gripped round shield. Portions of the workshop were video-recorded, and Mikkel has generously made the footage available for you.


Original Sword Grip Covers

A surprising number of surviving historical swords retain their original grip covers, showcasing a fascinating variety of handle wrappings—a detail also supported by contemporary depictions. Naturally, the majority of these surviving grips are found on swords preserved and maintained in armouries and collections. It is comparatively rare to find such components on archaeological specimens, as the organic materials of a sword are typically the first to decay.

On my Patreon, I am currently sharing photos of surviving late medieval and Renaissance sword grips. Some of these images are available for expert discussions but cannot be shared on public platforms or social media (much to my regret).

You’re always welcome to join my community of patrons. If you’d like to gift a membership to a sword enthusiast dear to you, you can do so as well. Give your friends and family access to Dimicator on Patreon! Memberships can be gifted for up to one year.


So, that's it for today. Take care, and keep your blade well-honed.

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Yours,

Roland


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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.

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