What is Rapier and Cut & Thrust Combat?

Rapier and Cut & Thrust are both similar forms of fighting that replicate the training and techniques of period masters from the late middle ages through the Renaissance.  Masters like Joachim Meyer, Fiore dei Liberi, Gerard Thibault, and Ridolfo Capo Ferro’s teachings live on as we use their techniques within our rules. These systems span several hundred years of shared knowledge and evolution in terms of technique and weapon preferences.

Rapier has slightly lighter armor requirements and tends to favor precision point control whereas Cut & Thrust requires additional safety gear and favors more cut oriented sword types and techniques. Both systems have similar requirements for gear and typically fall to personal preference as where to start, Rapier being the slightly easier form to get into.  

How do I get involved?

The emphasis on period technique should not be a deterrent from getting involved.  Whether you have no experience, modern/classical fencing, or training from other organizations, all are welcome and the community will happily guide you along on your journey.

We hold practices all around Central and Northern California, Alaska and Thailand, every month you can find at least one event to attend. You can start out by attending a practice, in modern attire is just fine, and introduce yourself.  Feel free to reach out to west-rapier@westkingdom.org if you have any questions or are unsure of where the closest group/practice/event is for you. To find practices and other things of interest please take a look at our Google Map : Kingdom of the West

We are active on Facebook and Discord.

What equipment is required?

The most expensive equipment will be the mask/helm and the sword.  Fortunately, for the most part, you can purchase equipment that can be used in both with careful consideration. For practices, we often wear modern clothing and safety gear. Many practices also supply loaner gear so you can get started while you build your own kit.  For events/demos we will wear period clothing and accessories. This often works hand-in-hand with this combat system.

The shared requirements between Rapier and Cut & Thrust are as follows:

• Modern fencing mask (rated at 12k or 350N)
• Puncture proof fabric covering the torso and under the arm
• A Gorget that covers the throat, back of neck and sternum
• Fabric covering the head and neck areas which are left exposed by the mask and gorget
• Gender appropriate groin protection
• Sword/Dagger 
• needs to have a minimum 1” deflection with a 6 ounce weight on the tip held horizontally from the grip.
• made of quality carbon steel and must be produced by a commercial entity and crafted for the purpose of competitive sword fighting.

Due to the nature of Cut & Thrust the following additional equipment is required

• Rigid covering over the back of the head (if not provided by the mask already)
• Elbow protection equal in thickness to a typical mouse pad
• Abrasion resistant (thicker fabric) shirt and leg covering
• Padded gloves
• If fighting against longsword they need to be rigid gloves (gauntlets)
• Sword/Dagger
• needs to have a minimum .5” deflection with a 6 ounce weight on the tip held horizontally from the grip.
• made of quality carbon steel and must be produced by a commercial entity and crafted for the purpose of competitive sword fighting.

Rules changes do happen at various levels, please check with your local marshal and the latest combat handbook for specific requirements.

SCA Society Rapier Combat Handbook

Practices, Tournaments, Experiments and Wars, oh my…

Local practices will likely be your connection point to the SCA.  Many practices involve other activities and combat types.  You will meet people with like interests and be introduced to members and learn about the various aspects of the SCA.  Beyond your local practice, what is there to do?  I am glad you asked…

Rapier/Cut & Thrust Tournaments are often part of a greater event.  They are typically between 10am and 3pm on Saturday and sometimes on Sunday.  Tournaments can be for fun, a prize, or even a champion at various levels in the kingdom. They are a great place to meet others you see and compete against in your local practice, get absorbed in the dream of the SCA, and discover other hobbies and interests as you get to know people.

The West Kingdom participates in various Experimental programs for Rapier and Cut & Thrust.  As of April 2025 we are involved in:

• Rapier Reduced Armor
• Cut & Thrust Reduced Armor
• Non-Metal Weapons
• Archery Combat

For more details, please visit the Experimental pages here:

Rapier Resources