Zwerchhau
Zwerchhau
A historical crosswise cut with the longsword that serves as both defense and attack at once.
Quick Facts
Definition
The Zwerchhau (German for "crosswise cut") is one of the five master cuts (Meisterhäue) in the tradition of the German fencing master Johannes Liechtenauer. The cut is delivered horizontally across the body with crossed hands, striking the opponent's head or neck. Its brilliance lies in the fact that the crossguard and the strong part of the blade (Schilt) cover the fencer's head against vertical cuts from above during the motion. It is an ideal technique against a common cut from above (Oberhau) and requires precise body mechanics and dynamism.
Related Terms
The phase of a fencing bout in which the blades touch and the fighters sense each other's pressure.
OchsOchsOne of the four basic defensive guards (leger) in historical German longsword fencing.
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.