Pflug / Plow
Pflug
One of the four basic guards (Vier Leger) in historical German longsword fencing, resembling the position of holding a plow.
Quick Facts
Definition
Pflug (the Plow) is a guard from historical German fencing in which the fencer holds the sword low beside the hip with the point angled upward toward the opponent's face or chest. The hilt is held near the right or left hip while the blade and crossguard shield the lower body. From this position a thrust (Ort) can be launched along the shortest possible line, making it a highly dangerous defensive-offensive guard. Together with Ochs, Alber, and Vom Tag, Pflug forms the so-called four basic guards (vier Leger) described by master Johannes Liechtenauer in his 14th-century verse teachings. The stance is often used as a transitional position after parrying an opponent's attack, from which the fencer immediately answers with a counter-thrust.
Related Terms
One of the four basic defensive guards (leger) in historical German longsword fencing.
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.