Hand Grips Used for Different Swords and Combat Styles
Donnchadh Baillie
Various hand grips are used to optimize control, leverage, and striking capabilities. Here are some of the common sword hand grips used in different fencing styles and with various types of swords.
Italian/Forward Grip (also known as Prima Mano):
Description: This grip involves holding the sword with the index finger over the cross guard and the thumb wrapped around the grip, while the remaining fingers remain relaxed around the grip. The Thumb can also be placed along the edge of the blade when delivering cuts.
Usage: Commonly used in Italian fencing styles like the Italian school of rapier fencing. It offers a good balance between control and flexibility.
Backsword Grip:
Description: When using a sword without a cross guard, this grip is similar to the Italian grip with the thumb resting along the back of the grip rather than wrapped around. Alternatively the thumb can be placed along on the écusson (quillion block) or the flat of the blade.
Usage: Historically used with Backswords, Side swords, Dussack and Sabers, it can also be used with Single handed broad swords, Basket hilted
broad swords, Schiavona, Katzbalger or other single handed weapons. It allows for powerful cuts and offers a good balance between speed and control.
French Grip:
Description: The French grip is held with all fingers wrapped around the grip, with the thumb placed on the flat of the blade or the guard.
The thumb extends along the grip towards the guard resting on the écusson (quillion block).
The forefinger rests just opposite the thumb so that thumb and forefinger are sort of pinching the guard.
The three remaining fingers grasp the grip and help keep the pommel, while in guard, against the wrist.
The fingers do not go through the Arms of the Hilt/annulets.
Usage: Widely used in classical French fencing styles, this grip offers excellent point control when using a small for its versatility. This grip can also be used with a dagger.
Two-Handed Grip:
Description: This grip involves holding the sword with both hands on the grip, providing increased power and control. The hands take a handshake grip as far apart on the grip as possible for extra leverage. An option is to place the thumb of the hand near the hilt on the quillion block or blade which allows for different techniques.
Usage: Commonly used with longswords and other two-handed swords in styles like German or Italian longsword fencing. The two-handed grip allows for strong cuts and defensive techniques.
Hammer Grip:
Description: When using this grip, the handle is held with all fingers and thumb wrapped around the grip.
Usage: This grip is most often used with daggers, Single handed broad sword, Basket hilted broad sword, Schiavona, Katzbalger, Dussack, Sabre or similar.
Reverse Grip (also known as Icepick Grip):
Description: This grip is primarily used when wielding a dagger. The weapon is held with the blade pointing downwards and the thumb wrapped around the grip or guard.
Usage: Used in predominantly in German systems however is also common in Italian and other systems. It shortens the distance to strike, allowing for quick and deceptive strikes. This grip is also effective when striking around or over a shield and enables effective arm locks when grappling.
These are just a few examples of the many hand grips and styles used in swordsmanship and fencing. Each grip has its advantages and is suited to different types of swords and combat situations. Additionally, many fencers may combine elements from various grips and styles to create a personalized and effective fencing technique.
Such as, contrary to popular belief, the forward hand on a two hander using Italian grip or the Italian grip used with dagger.
