HEMA · Field Manual

The Gospel of Swordsmanship

A field manual for the solo practitioner. A stick and a dream.

Six years of active practice. The Gospel of Swordsmanship was originally built for my own practice and the training of a student — a synthetic system informed by historical sources, built for people who don't have a club, a partner, or perfect conditions.

What's in the Manual

Length35,000+ words · 253 pages
Weapon Systems6 — Longsword, Messer, Rapier, Rapier & Dagger, Saber, Dagger
Primary SourcesRingeck, Lecküchner, Capo Ferro
FormatPDF + EPUB
EditionFirst Edition, 2026
LanguageEnglish (with German/Italian terminology glossaries)

Core Curriculum

  • Complete longsword curriculum
  • Guards, cuts, Five Master Cuts
  • The bind, winding, techniques from the bind
  • Wrestling at the sword & set plays

Teaching Framework

  • Month-by-month solo curriculum
  • Solo drills — no partner required
  • Partner drills for when you have one
  • Common Errors throughout

Reference Material

  • German, Italian & Saber glossaries
  • Annotated bibliography
  • Complete drill index
  • Equipment guide by stage

Every Technique Includes

  • What it threatens
  • What it invites
  • When to use it
  • When NOT to use it
  • Common errors
  • Standalone solo drill
Volume I of an ongoing series $35

PDF + EPUB · All future updates to Volume I at no additional cost

Get the Manual →

Revised illustrated edition planned — price will increase.

Volume II will expand into spear, polearm, and companion weapons. Patrons and existing buyers get first access.