The Swordman's Companion: A Manual for Training With the Medieval Longsword

Rating:
Summary: bridge the gap of understanding; German to Italian
Review: bridge the gap

Great supplemental information and a well structured book
Practical advice and clear and understandable photographs.
I primarily study and work with in the realm of the German Fechtbuch manuscripts, so in truth transferring the terminology was a bit bothersome, but not a detrimental problem. The book is great; I learned a good bit from it and enjoyed the style it was written in.
And you can not beat it's cost with a stick, or a waster for that matter.


Rating:
Summary: A True Manual
Review: Guy Windsor's book on Italian Longsword (a light two handed sword) is the perfect starting place for anyone wanting to study this weapon. Guy's understanding of basic body mechanics is extraordinary and these are rightfully emphasised. Based firmly in historical Italian sources, Swordsman's Companion contains a sequence of drills, logically ordered and clearly illustrated and explained.

The best way to learn the Italian Longsword is to train with an expert teacher, like Bob Charron or Guy himself. Failing that, Guy's book is a great place to start your studies.

With the recent release of Christian Tobler's excellent "Fighting with the German Longsword", both major systems of medieval longsword play are the subject of well researched, excellently written books. It's a great time to be studying medieval swordsmanship.

Stephen Hand
Author of Medieval Sword and Shield:
The Combat System of Royal Armouries MS. I.33

Rating:
Summary: The best introduction to the longsword available.
Review: I am not primarily a longsword practitioner (the Italian rapier is my focus), so this book won't get as much use from me as it will from a serious student of the longsword. However, I feel that as an introduction and training guide to the longsword, that this is by far the best book out there. Mr. Windsor obviously put a lot of time and energy into this book, and it shows. The photographs are first rate, and the drawings are very clear and informative. The writing is very good--an enjoyable and informative read, even for someone who is just curious about the general use of the longsword. Along with terminology, techniques and drills, this book also covers what equipment you'll need and how to practice safely. An excellent effort at a low price.

If you're interested in western swordsmanship, buy this book!


Rating:
Summary: Great Guide -a must have for the self taught
Review: This book is one of my best purchases toward swordsmanship.It takes you step-by-step through everything(it even has training plans).It has many wonder drills to help you master all of the basics.My training was greatly assisted by this book and following it I have made serious improvment.I highly doubt you would regret this purchase.In fact, I think you will treasure this book,I know I do.