MASHS

Today, there is an on-going and ever expanding study of European based armed and unarmed martial arts. This study is the foundation of what is commonly referred to as Western Martial Arts (WMA), and encompasses a wide range of activities. One significant branch of Western Martial Arts, and the one that MASHS is dedicated to, is Historical European Swordsmanship (HES).

From as early as the 13th century, masters of the arts documented their methods in pictures and text. Fortunately, this legacy is still available to us, the modern practitioners. The earnest study of these manuscripts and treatises then provides us the Knowledge base for HES. And it is from this Knowledge that we develop an understanding of theory, techniques and tactics associated with swordsmanship.

Skill at arms though, comes from Practice. For the modern practitioner this takes form in repetitive drills, and actual bouting, all in a safe, controlled, and competent manner. We bout as if it were a real encounter, as if with sharpened weapons. So our Practice emphasizes good technique and tactics.

What We Are: MASHS then is a group of dedicated enthusiasts and practitioners who come together to study, analyze, and practice Historical European Swordsmanship and Western Martial Arts. Our focus is on Medieval weapons, Renaissance sword arts, and later period dueling swords. We use real techniques based on historical manuals and treatises. We also develop practical tactical experience through drilling and safe bouting using historically accurate replica weapons and simulators. We are part of a growing movement dedicated to Western Martial Arts and generally follow the precepts and training methodologies common to many other groups. While we enjoy great relationships with our colleagues, we are in fact an independent martial study society.

What We Are Not: Many of our members come to the study of swordsmanship from a variety of backgrounds. All are welcome. We are not, however, a sport fencing salle, live action role-playing group, part of the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) or any other re-enactment group, nor are we a stage combat organization.

When and Where We Meet: We offer training twice a week as follows:
Sundays from 2:00 to 5:00, at The Annapolis Recreation Center, Annapolis, Maryland
Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30, North County Recreation Center, Brooklyn Park, Maryland

For directions to each of our sites, look under Practice Locations

Fees: There are no membership fees for joining MASHS, just your dedication and enthusiasm. However, a minimal floor fee is asked of each participant in attendance each time we meet to defray the cost of the use of our training sites.

Study Structure: We are all students of the sword. There are no "masters" at MASHS, so instruction will come from those more experienced in a particular weapon system. Currently, our areas of study include the medieval German style Longsword, early 17th Century Italian Rapier and associated weapons, 18th Century French Smallsword, and 19th Century Italian Dueling Saber.

Organizational Structure: This is informal. Larry Tom, Founder of MASHS, serves as its Administrator.

Safety First, in weapons, equipment, and bouting rules of engagement.

Good Esprit de Corps. At MASHS we train in an atmosphere of comradeship, not competition. Since we are all students of the sword, we leave our egos at the door.