About

Armed free fighting (also: historical fencing, medieval free fencing, etc.) is primarily a martial art that is based on different combat systems (International Codex Belli (ICB), Codex Belli, International Rules, etc.). Depending on the combat system and type of weapon, there are different hit zones. It is trained and fought in single combat as well as in line or group combat. As a rule, the combat partner is eliminated in the event of a rule-compliant hit for the round. Depending on the hit rules, it may also be that several hits have to be set. In the International Codex Belli combat system, there is a fairly broad spectrum of hit zones. Hacks / cuts with appropriate weapons (sword, saber, sword ax, sax, one-handed ax, daneax and scythe) are permitted on the entire upper body, upper arms and thighs. Stitches are allowed on the entire upper body and thighs for both cut and stab weapons (two-handed and one-handed spear). Legs from feet to knees, arms from hands to elbows, neck and head are not considered a hit zone.

Approved weapons:

• Cutting weapons: weapons with steel blades, wielded one or two hands (sword, sword-seax, seax, one-handed axe, long axe / daneaxe, scythe)
• Polearms: two-handed long eapons with steel heads (two-handed spear, sometimes fork) as well as one-handed spears

Non-approved weapons:

• Light metal or latex weapons
• Ranged weapons: bows and crossbows as well as slings

Prohibited weapons:

• sharp weapons, firearms, balancing weapons and chain weapons (clubs, flails), whips, …

techn. Requirements for admission to battle:

In close combat, cutting weapons and polearms with steel blades that have a striking edge of at least 2 mm and whose tips are rounded in such a way that they cannot penetrate chain braids with rings of 8 mm inner diameter are permitted.

additional rules on weapons:

Approved weapons must not have any structural damage or excessive nicks. A weapon check of ALL weapons carried before the battle is mandatory!

Prohibited weapons and sharp or pointy objects may neither be used nor carried on the battlefield.

• The minimum armor protection in close combat consists of padded gloves and, if necessary, head protection.
• Body protection, especially protection of the forearms and joints, is strongly recommended!
• Shields and armor with points or sharp edges are prohibited.

• Fair behavior and safety on the battlefield is paramount! We fight as partners, not as enemies!
• Participation in a battle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not permitted!
• Sharp or pointy objects (knives, food sticks, etc.) are generally not allowed to be carried.
• Use of the body to attack the opponent directly (kicks, punches, etc.) is not permitted.
• Hitting from behind should be indicated by a “clap” on the buttocks – we don’t hit the back (shoulder blades, spine, etc.).
• An accidental head hit leads WITHOUT DISCUSSION! to the out of the person who set the hit.
• Whoever is eliminated indicates this clearly, e.g. by turning the shield or raising his hand, and leaves the battlefield.

• The safety of weapons and equipment is guaranteed by controls. Nevertheless, everyone is responsible for their own equipment!
• The fighter must prove his suitability on the weapon by means of an on-site test.
• First aid equipment must be on site. Every fighter should be a trained first responder.
• Minor fighters require the written consent of their legal guardian.
• The instructions of the judges must be followed.
• The organizer has the house right.
• Every fighter is responsible for ensuring that spectators are not endangered.
• A hit regulation is not part of the battle rules and has to be agreed separately.