Revelations of Rapier

by Robert Childs

There are a number of “how-to” rapier manuals now available; both those written centuries ago and now presented in modern English translation, or those composed by modern maestri of the sword in emulation of those by-gone works. But there has always been the parallel tradition of the martial treatise, a book that seeks to bestow not just “nuts-and-bolts” mechanical advice, but a philosophy of fencing that shows the swordsman not only the how, but why.

It is this category of work that 30+ year fencer and currently top-ranked rapier fencer, Rob Childs. emulates. After explaining the basics of his own, eclectic system of rapier combat, he walks students through a wide variety of topics: how to choose the proper sword for you; how to fence students of different sizes; physical qualities and emotional temperaments; how to adapt your approach to different contexts (casual matches, competitions and medals matches) while maintaining martial reality; the use of sound, body displacement to deceive the opponent, and the most common tells fencers give and how to train them out of yourself – while using them against your opponent. Interwoven with personal anecdotes, you will gain both a look into the mindset and training paradigm of a world-class competitor, the sort of advice athletes for generations have sought from highly-skilled coaches and be entertained at Childs’ own adventures through the evolving world of historical swordsmanship. Although centered on the rapier, this work is really about fencing writ large and will be of value to anyone who has held a blade and heard the words ‘en garde’!

212 pages, Paperback

Published May 1, 2022

About the author

Robert Childs was born in Illinois and is an avid sword fighting enthusiast with bachelors degrees in Japanese Language and Geology and a masters in Military Arts & Science. He specializes in rapier swordplay, actively teaching and competing since 1987 both in the US and abroad. Mostly recently he brought home the silver medal as the North American representative in single rapier combat. His book "Fourth Power" is the sequel to his debut novel "Third Power" in an ongoing series in the sword and sorcery genre. He currently lives in California with his wife, three dogs, and a large collection of sharp pointy objects.

Reviews

[Vince · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book for the modern sword-enthusiast or anyone looking to get into fencing with a rapier. Rob includes terrific insight into not just the technical theory behind his system, but also has great sections on the mental aspect and psychology of good martial fencing as well. His chapter on ‘Thought vs Reflex’, and the scientific breakdown of the extra fractions of seconds that can be wasted, REALLY helped me with getting out of my head during bouts, and has allowed me to take full advantage of the subconscious instinct and reflexes I’ve acquired through rigorous training.

Definitely a 10/10 for the modern day fencer looking to increase their rapier ability.