The fourth method I will add is the sound. Perfect edge alignment has a special whistle to it that once you learn to produce and recognize, you will always be able to tell if you cut is aligned along the edge.

I've seen arguments against edge alignment in swordfighting, it goes something like this: ''You don't really need perfect edge alignment as long as the cutting edge hits the opponent'' which is absolutely wrong especially when your opponent is clothed or armored. Not to mention perfect edge alignment literally accelerates your blade (basic aerodynamics) so you're getting speed benefit as well. Delivering a killing blow or even just a disabling blow is not easy especially during swordfights, so I would argue edge alignment is perhaps one of the most important thing in swordfighting. What's the point of hitting your opponent when it can't kill or stop them? You could be the greatest swordsman of all time but if your cuts doesn't kill or injure then you're about as good as dead.

@wildyracing1

4 жыл бұрын

I fully agree! Japanese are still regarded as best swordsmen not only because their swords cut better, but because they were obsessed with edge alignment, hence the super impressive cuts on flesh they did. To decapitate you absolutely need perfect edge alignment. If someone disagrees, then he is using the sword as a blunt force tool. And there are better weapons for this job - axes, maces.

@Chris-yg5vh

4 жыл бұрын

@APassersby not necessarily. I've been a bladesmith for nearly 15 years. Katanas typically have a convex edge vs European which have a concave edge. The concave edge literally splits the matter apart like a plow. The meatbag behind the sword obviously can mess that up however edge geometry when it comes to the tool itself makes a whole world of difference. PS I hate katanas, they are overrated and overhyped.

@gwynbleidd1917

3 жыл бұрын

I'd even argue that you can't be the "greatest swordsman of all time" if you don't have great edge alignment when delivering an attack lol

@stephenkime5946

3 жыл бұрын

@@wildyracing1 This is a tricky argument to be fair. Japanese swordsman have the benefit of performing an art that has had its lineage maintained through the years. The teaching styles being maintained as generations progressed where as Euro-centric combat styles simply disappeared in favor of more advanced technology. The comparison between longsword and katana is a long and very over done argument. In my opinion its like comparing a hammer to a screw-driver. They both drive pieced of metal into wood but differently. There is evidence that in early medieval periods swords would not have as keen an edge and blunt force trauma was most definitely a factor in combat because the invention of plate harness did not occur until later and most commonly chain-mail was the armor of choice. that being said. Even the Japanese armor would protect against a strike by a Katana. The Adage that Japanese swords cut better is rather untrue. The cutting potential of a Katana relies on using as much of the edge as possible when cutting so a cut that lands on the strong of the blade and is pushed and drawn across the cutting medium will allow for a more powerful cut. Whereas the longsword is more of a Hewing or cleaving implement relying on rotation and edge alignment for cutting power. The Cross section of the sword is also very important to the potential cutting power of a blade. But the design is very dependent on the quality of the steel at the time as well. There are Lots of factors that make the Katana better in some conditions and much worse in others. They are both very well made tools to be used in very specific and different ways. You cannot cut with a katana in the same way as you cut with a long-sword. And vice versa. Sorry about the info-dump. I actually love debates like this if you're interested in continuing this line please feel free to message me directly. Cheers

It's probably worth noting that using the pommel to align the edge with one's grip is only suitable with certain styles of pommel. For example, most scent stopper style pommels will not be useful in orienting the sword's edge.

@gwynbleidd1917

3 жыл бұрын

Or that holding the sword in that way actually promotes poor edge alignment anyways and creates a fulcrum, which is shitty power generation compared to holding the sword with your hands basically touching and having the grip rest in the proper spot in the palm etcetera

Cutting practice tomorrow morning - will be focussing on edge alignment! Nice location for the video! :)

Great info.

Very nice info.

Another way to think your using your thump like an arrow to point to your blade is going.

Medieval's Blade👀👍

I have an interest for learning swordsmanship as well as, if not mainly, how to fight using staffs. Where should I go? Also, if the large stereotypical scythe weapons exist, or I were to make one, how would one fight with it?

@stephenkime5946

3 жыл бұрын

Scythes used for grain harvesting can still slice flesh quite readily. there are sections in the manuscript we use that focus on staff as-well however we don't have a particularly safe simulator in order to spar with.

I wonder how does peagon taste like

Where are you located? I want to learn this form of martial arts

@stephenkime5946

3 жыл бұрын

We are located in north vancouver Island. feel free to email us for information