Ochs
Ochs
One of the four basic defensive guards (leger) in historical German longsword fencing.
Quick Facts
Definition
Ochs (the Ox) is a guard in which the fencer holds the longsword raised above the head, beside the temple. The hilt is held high near the head with the arms crossed (or uncrossed, depending on the side), while the blade points slightly downward toward the opponent's face or chest. The guard covers the upper lines of attack and allows an immediate response with a thrust (Ort) straight into the opponent's face should they attempt to close the distance. Crosswise cuts such as the Zwerchhau are also very effectively launched from the Ochs.
Related Terms
A historical crosswise cut with the longsword that serves as both defense and attack at once.
BindBindenThe phase of a fencing bout in which the blades touch and the fighters sense each other's pressure.
Pflug / PlowPflugOne of the four basic guards (Vier Leger) in historical German longsword fencing, resembling the position of holding a plow.
Alber / Fool's GuardAlberOne of the four basic guards of historical German fencing, in which the sword points downward toward the ground.
Vom Tag / From the RoofVom TagOne of the four basic guards of historical German fencing, in which the sword is raised high above the head or shoulder.
Vor / Nach / Indes (Before, After, Instantly)Vor / Nach / IndesA trio of key timing principles in historical German fencing describing initiative, reaction, and simultaneity of action.