A longsword and buckler resting in sunlit grass

Historical Fencing (HEMA) · Buffalo, NY

Centuries of
systems.
Zero shortcuts.

Swords, footwork, fencing. We train the art and sport of the longsword, rapier, saber, sword and buckler and more.

2 nights a week
18+ all adults welcome
$15 drop-in, first free
Gear provided to start

What is HISTORICAL FENCING?

Competitive Fencing.
Source informed. Modern sweat.

Historical Fencing, also known as Historical European Martial Arts(HEMA) is the study of fencing systems and weapon arts from the historical fencing sources — from the late middle ages through to the modern era. We train hard against resisting partners, use the sources for inspiration, improve ourselves and some of us even compete.

If you've done any one on one sport, it'll feel familiar: warm up, competitive drilling, coached technique work, test yourself against your peers, cool down. If you haven't, we'll meet you where you're at. No experience needed — just show up ready to move.

Read the FAQ
A longsword standing against a broad oak tree

What we train

The weapons

Longsword — detail

Longsword

Two hands, full body, drawn from the German masters — Meyer and the Liechtenauer tradition.

Rapier — detail

Rapier

A surprisingly heavy thrust oriented sword. Precise, patient, then the point! — a game of setup, distance and timing.

Sword & Buckler — detail

Sword & Buckler

A one-handed cut and thrust sword paired with a small shield — common throughout Europe and incredibly fun.

Sabre — detail

Sabre

A single-handed cut oriented sword — fast, flowing, and built on decisive edge work and clean tempo.

& More — detail

& More

Dussack, sidesword, dagger, smallsword and others make occasional appearances

When & where

Train with us

We meet Monday nights at Mang Park, Buffalo, NY. Drop in any session — your first one's on us.

Full schedule & location
  • Monday 6:00 – 8:00 PM
  • Near or at the park shelter at Mang Park, 155 Wilber Rd, Buffalo, NY 14217
  • We're working on adding Friday practices — expect them in the next month or two.

Safety first, always

Hard training. Controlled contact.

We're serious about protection and safety. New students fence only after gearing up and getting walked through it by an instructor. Control isn't optional here.

Get started

Your first class is free.

Bring a water bottle and clothes you can move in. We provide the swords, the masks, and someone to walk you through it.