Doppelstab

Doppelstab is a term found in German-language martial arts and historical combat discourse that generally refers to the use of two staffs in close-quarters fighting. The concept can denote either a weapon consisting of two independent staffs wielded together or a fighting method that employs dual staffs simultaneously. The designation emphasizes dual-range control, with emphasis on blocking, striking, and redirecting an opponent’s attacks through coordinated movements.

Etymology and usage contexts: The word Doppelstab literally translates to “double staff.” In practice, sources vary in how they apply it: some describe a paired-weapon approach in which practitioners wield two separate staffs in each hand, while others use the term for training systems that explore two-staff concepts within a single discipline. The term is most commonly encountered in modern reenactment, stage combat, and experimental martial arts discussions rather than as a standardized historical weapon designation.

Variants and techniques: Where two staffs are used, common elements include distributed range reach, mirrored or complementary guards, and rapid transitions between offense and defense. Practitioners may train with lightweight staffs (such as rattan or bamboo) to develop coordination, timing, and footwork suitable for dual-staff scenarios. In some contexts, “double-staff” concepts are explored within broader polearm or staff curricula, alongside single-staff disciplines.

Historical and contemporary context: There is no universally accepted historical weapon called the Doppelstab. Today, the term appears mainly in modern martial arts communities, historical reenactment groups, fantasy literature, and media that examine two-staff fighting concepts. It serves as a umbrella label for dual-staff practice rather than a single codified weapon system.

See also: Staff fighting, dual wielding, polearm, stage combat.