Kingdom of Atlantia

Rules References

You should fully review both the Society and Kingdom rapier rules.

While reviewing the ruleset as a whole is recommended, please make sure you review sections 3.11.2, 3.11.2.2, 3.11.3.1.5 and 3.11.3.2.3.

Implementation Details

In order to attempt to authorize, the candidate must have been authorized in either Rapier or Armored combat for at least one year.

The authorization process is similar to that of traditional rapier. There will be both a rules quiz and a series of authorization passes.

In addition to the standard safety checks of a traditional rapier authorization, the C&T authorization ensures that candidates can consistently throw full-speed C&T blows safely. Please expect a challenging and thorough authorization.

In order to qualify for the C&T MIT program, you must have been a traditional rapier marshal for at least one year, and be an authorized C&T fighter. You must complete a C&T 101 class, and serve as a C&T MIT for at least 3 events.

You can only practice when a C&T marshal is present to oversee the practice. No C&T is permitted to occur at any SCA event or practice without a C&T marshal present and actively observing the combat.

C&T may occur at any event with authorized C&T fighters and a C&T marshal subject to the permission of the marshals in charge.

RMICs are required to specify in the event report when C&T occurs at the event. The name of the presiding C&T marshal must be provided in the report, along with a brief description of the activities.

Important Differences

The most important difference is the lack of power generation. A number of concepts and techniques will translate from armored to C&T, but those parts of the technique that provide the force to the blow must be reduced to fall inline with the calibration requirements. From a rules perspective, the largest change is that C&T is based upon the traditional rapier ruleset. While the introduction of percussive cuts can dramatically alter the overall fight, the rules governing the fight remain very similar to rapier. It is important that the armored fighter become familiar with both the rules and the expected calibration level during their training.

The most obvious difference is the expected level of impact in C&T is broader than that of traditional rapier. While the thrusts and draw cuts should be of the same calibration as rapier fighting, the percussive cut lands at a somewhat higher level, and fighters should be aware of that. This does not excuse the fighter delivering the blow from exercising the required control, but all participants must acknowledge that they will be struck with a harder blow than they would normally receive in traditional rapier. This also brings up another difference between C&T and rapier. Traditionally in rapier fighting, armor has remained at the minimum level. Many participants in C&T have chosen to wear armor above the minimum requirements. This is entirely acceptable, and fighters should wear whatever makes them comfortable. However, the fighter must take the time to learn to call blows in the additional armor.

C&T Training

There are a few areas that seem to be a common experience among C&T fighters as they train. One, which seems to affect rapier fighters in particular, is that the fight seems compressed in relation to regular rapier fights. As fighters concentrate on the cut, they move closer than they realize to their opponents. When their reflexes call for a thrust, it often comes in very heavy because of the compressed range. Fighters should begin slowly in order to avoid this.

Another common problem is the clearing shot. This comes up often in armored fighting and in rapier fighters who are looking to break engagement. A defensive shot thrown through the area between the fighters is intended to clear the avenue of attack as the fighter increases the range. This must be executed with caution, in part because of the compressed range problem (for rapier fighters) and also because even this shot must be made with control, in case it contacts the opponent (for armored fighters).

Please let DEM-Rapier know if you see anything you think should be modified.

Obviously, you have to find a C&T marshal to practice with, but marshals have put forth a number of additional recommendations as you start. An often cited recommendation is to start with a lighter blade. Avoid immediately starting with a heavy C&T only blade if you can. Instead start with a lighter blade, perhaps even a 30 as you learn the ins, outs and techniques that are specific to C&T.

Reporting and Additional Questions

For events, the RMIC must report any time C&T occurs at the event. Please include the name of the C&T marshal that oversaw the fighting and a brief overview of the activities that include C&T.

If the rules dont answer your questions, there are a number of places you can go. Any C&T marshal can field your question, you can ask on any of the online lists (such as the Atlantian rapiernet or the Atlantian marshals list) or you can email ask either the Deputy Earl Marshal for Rapier Combat or one of his deputies.