About us
Welcome to Crossroads Swords, a passionate and dedicated community of individuals devoted to the study of historical fencing. Our mission is to explore the wisdom preserved in treatises penned by weapons masters of the past and combine it with a thorough understanding of the historical context. By applying these ancient techniques to modern scenarios, we strive to embody the grace, cunning, and speed displayed in historical combat.
We extend an open invitation to anyone with an interest in historical fencing to join us on this path of discovery. Together, we aim to attain mastery of our art, as well as of ourselves. We warmly invite you to be a part of our community and share in the pursuit of this worthwhile endeavor.
Upcoming events
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Thursday Longsword Interpretation Class!
The H.A.L.L., 1331 Green Forest Ct, Suite 22, Winter Garden, FL, USThursdays, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Open Floor: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Instructors: Devon Klausner, Will Oaksmith & Chase ThompsonThis class focuses on studying historical fencing manuals directly and interpreting their systems as complete martial arts. Rather than emphasizing general sparring performance alone, we explore why techniques were written, how they function within the original system, and how they connect together conceptually.
Classes involve reading from translations and source material, then applying those lessons through drills, partnered exercises, and technical exploration. Systems will rotate over time, beginning with Fiore-era Italian material such as Phillipo di Vadi’s De Arte Gladiatoria Dimicandi.
Open Floor immediately follows class and provides dedicated training and sparring time.
Recommended Gear:
Comfortable athletic clothing and shoes, athletic groin protection, and any fencing gear you may already own.How to Join:
Your first two class days are free. Before attending, please review all of our policies, then create a PushPress account and sign up for at least the free trial membership through HEMAA using the links on our website:
https://crossroadsswords.com/join-us1 attendee
Thursday Applied Longsword Class!
The H.A.L.L., 1331 Green Forest Ct, Suite 22, Winter Garden, FL, USThursdays, 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Open Floor available before and after class
Instructors: John Knoch & Will OaksmithApplied Medieval Longsword focuses on translating historical longsword techniques into practical application. Drawing from both German and Italian sources, the class emphasizes timing, pressure, sparring integration, tactical decision-making, and contextual use of techniques.
This class is beginner friendly while also offering experienced students opportunities to refine execution and application through structured drills and live practice.
Open Floor training and sparring opportunities are available before and after class.
Recommended Gear:
Comfortable athletic clothing and shoes, athletic groin protection, and any fencing gear you may already own.How to Join:
Your first two class days are free. Before attending, please review all of our policies, then create a PushPress account and sign up for at least the free trial membership through HEMAA using the links on our website:
https://crossroadsswords.com/join-us1 attendee
Saturday Sabre Class!
The H.A.L.L., 1331 Green Forest Ct, Suite 22, Winter Garden, FL, USSaturdays, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Open Floor: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Instructor: Nathan PumphreyThis recurring sabre class explores the use and evolution of the one-handed military sabre across multiple historical traditions. Material may include Hutton-style military sabre, Polish sabre systems, and modern Olympic sabre concepts for context and comparison.
Students will develop cutting mechanics, footwork, tactical concepts, and an understanding of how different sabre traditions approach combat and movement. The class is beginner friendly and open to all experience levels.
Open Floor follows class and provides dedicated training and sparring time.
Recommended Gear:
Comfortable athletic clothing and shoes, athletic groin protection, and any fencing gear you may already own.
Loaner equipment is available, and students are welcome to bring their own sabres.How to Join:
Your first two class days are free. Before attending, please review all of our policies, then create a PushPress account and sign up for at least the free trial membership through HEMAA using the links on our website:
https://crossroadsswords.com/join-us2 attendees
Saturday Sword and Shield Class!
The H.A.L.L., 1331 Green Forest Ct, Suite 22, Winter Garden, FL, USSaturdays, 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Open Floor available before and after class
Instructor: Eric LoweThis class focuses on historical sword and shield systems from Italian sources such as Achille Marozzo and Antonio Manciolino, with additional reference to other 16th-century authors where appropriate.
Students will work with both bucklers (small center-gripped shields) and rotellas (larger arm-strapped shields), developing a broader understanding of late medieval and Renaissance sword-and-shield combat. The class is beginner friendly and suitable for students interested in any form of one-handed swordsmanship.
Open Floor training and sparring opportunities are available before and after class.
Recommended Gear:
Comfortable athletic clothing and shoes, athletic groin protection, and any fencing gear you may already own.
Loaner equipment is available, and any one-handed sword simulator is welcome.How to Join:
Your first two class days are free. Before attending, please review all of our policies, then create a PushPress account and sign up for at least the free trial membership through HEMAA using the links on our website:
https://crossroadsswords.com/join-us1 attendee
Past events
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