Continuity in European Combat Arts?

Hello fellow sword enthusiasts, researchers, and fighters,

How did people actually fight in close combat 3,000 years ago—and how much of that knowledge survived into the age of the fechtbücher?

Recently, a viewer asked why I do not demonstrate the use of Bronze Age swords with what he called a “hammer grip” — essentially gripping the weapon like a gymnast holding a horizontal bar.

The question touches on several important issues: how early swords were handled, how we interpret limited sources, and how modern assumptions can shape our understanding of historical combat.

As these topics come up regularly, I thought it might be useful to address them in a more structured way and to bring together the relevant sources and resources in one place.

In my dedicated post, I outline striking similarities between Bronze Age sword-fighting and later European traditions, suggesting a continuity of fundamental principles.

The Birth of the Northern Sword

As part of developing an extensive study of Bronze Age combat with Harald Meller, I created a digital reconstruction of an early Bronze Age Sögel sword. This type represents the earliest swords developed north of the Alps around 1600 BC, influenced by imports from the Carpathian Basin.

The reconstruction builds on photographs of Ørjan Engedal’s excellent replica of the Echten find. Guided by my geometrical analysis, I explored how such a sword might have appeared with a horn grip and an additional pommel cap similar to those known from the Nebra swords.

Patrons can download my full-size illustration, as well as the sword’s geometric layout.

Video Series on Early Sword-Fighting

In December 2025, a six-part video series on Bronze Age sword design and early fighting practices was recorded at the State Museum of Prehistory in Halle. Harald Meller and I discuss a wide range of topics, handling original artefacts ranging from prehistoric Stabdolche (dagger axes) to a late medieval longsword.

The first edited versions look very promising, and I look forward to sharing the final episodes with you. Stay tuned to be the first to know when they are released.

Stay sharp! 🗡️
Roland

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