To properly execute a cut, the arms, shoulder, and feet have to combine in one mighty movement not unlike a baseball bat swing. As diGrasse states, the rapier is simply not a cutting weapon, and he and all period writers discussing rapier discourage the use of the edgeblow except in moments of special opportunity. Proper Set-up for Cut, From Jacob Suter Blocks or Wards DiGrasse's section on Wards covers the starting 'on guard' positions. Rapier blocks are somewhat wider or 'bigger' than foil parries, and are exaggerated here. A fast, economical defense should make an attack miss by an inch or two, not a foot.
Swordplay can be dangerous if improperly practiced.
Routines should be practiced only under the qualified supervision of a fencing instructor or by an American Society of Fight Directors instructor. Traverse DemiVolte Volte Danger zones - the range from which the fencer in the lower left can strike. Swordplay can be dangerous if improperly practiced. Routines should be practiced only under the qualified supervision of a fencing instructor or by an American Society of Fight Directors instructor.