Swordcapturing

Swordcapturing refers to techniques used to seize or control an opponent's sword during combat or training. The aim is to neutralize the threat by redirecting the blade, trapping it against the opponent’s blade or body, or by seizing the weapon’s hilt or blade to disarm the opponent. Sword capture is a central concept in many historical sword traditions, especially historical European martial arts (HEMA), where practitioners study binds, wraps, and disarms to gain control after a contested cut or thrust.

Common methods include inside and outside binds, where the attacker’s blade is intercepted and held against the adversary’s blade; and variations that employ a partial grip or “half-sword” positions to extend control. Many systems emphasize proper footwork, balance, and off-hand positioning to prevent counter-capture. The goal of capture techniques is often to create an opening for a finishing move or to force the opponent’s blade offline.

Contexts and sources: blade capture appears across several traditions, with notable documentation in historical European manuals such as Fiore dei Liberi and Johannes Liechtenauer lineage, which describe how to control a blade through binds, reinforcements, and disarms. In some Asian sword arts, grappling and blade-handling practices also appear, though terminology and methods vary by school.

Safety and practice: in modern training, swordcapturing drills are conducted with protective gear, blunt or wooden swords, and controlled environments to minimize injury. Proper instruction and progressive drilling are essential due to the risk inherent in close-quarters blade work.