Lessons of the Broadsword Masters

This book provides a brief summary of several British sources along with some info on the context of the sources and a synthesized system with some info and lesson plans. A must read for Highland Broadsword or those interested in Scottish-British martial history.

I bought this book after recently joining a broadsword club led by a Cateran Society instructor. Not only does it describe the smattering of lessons we do in class, but it presents the entire highland broadsword system in great detail!The original broadsword masters (ranging from the years 1728-1805) are quoted and referenced at length, which is of great help since their works are otherwise difficult to find. There are numerous exercises and drills based on the original texts and subdivided into distinct levels. The instructions are clear enough that I feel very comfortable using the book in my own practice outside of class. The information here will take you very far indeed, and I'll probably be able to use this book for years of broadsword training.This is my first time doing HEMA and at first I was unsure about starting with broadsword since it's not very "on the radar" (certainly not compared to longsword or even rapier). But I'm very glad I did, because I find the system is rather versatile and is likely very applicable in learning the arming sword, rapier, or any other one-handed weapons. It has also introduced me to singlestick, which is a lot of fun in itself and uses the same system.Bottom line: if you're looking to learn broadsword, this is *the* book to get.

Wonderful book that synthesizes the various broadsword masters to make an introduction into the field for a newcomer. In addition to the overview it provides a wealth of lessons and practice material both for the solo practitioner and to practice with another student. The MacGregor Method and the Seven Words were really interesting as well. Pair this with some of the excellent youtube videos by Jay Maas at Broadsword Manitoba and you should be able to grok enough about singlestick, broadsword, and backsword to not embarrass yourself at a tournament.

The book is very down to earth, practical, and easily understood if you already know the basics of western fencing. Highly recommended for anyone serious about mastering the broadsword.

Very comprehensive compilation of the Broadsword, well illustrated, a must for those interested in the sword. A worthwhile endeavour, fantastic that is available on kindle at a good price. Peter a Sword Nerd

Beat all my expectations

The layout and explanations of the fighting principals and understanding the differences taught by each sword master in chronological order is what you will find in this book. Very well written and researched. Every once in a while a fight book comes along and switches on the light bulb. This title is one of those, certainly.

Amüsant zu lesen! Allerdings nur wenn man sich für die Materie oder Zeit interessiert. Die sportlichen Erklärungen der Zeitgenossen die das Büchlein schrieben sind akzeptabel.Die Zitate der alten Meister und die Geschichten über diese sind Gold für alle deren Herz bei Säbel und Degen Filmen höher schlägt.

Lässt sich gut umsetzen auch bei eher spärlichen Englischkenntnissen

one of the best book to work at home and on the field of HEMA place.I do not have a word more to add, it's golden for to practice and for historians also.

The price is very good for the information that it provides. I've found a lot of techniques that are interesting and fun to practice.

Would buy again but more detailed instructional photos would be an improvement