Welcome to R.E.I. Sabre Fencing

A Non-Profit Historical Sabre Fencing Study Group in Falkirk

R.E.I. Sabre Fencing is a non-profit study group dedicated to the research, reconstruction, and practice of the nineteenth-century military sabre system of the Royal Italian Army.

Our work is based primarily on the fencing manuals of Settimo Del Frate and the wider Radaellian tradition, one of the most influential schools of nineteenth-century Italian sabre fencing.

Through historical research and practical training, we seek to understand not only how this system was used, but also how it was originally taught, the logic behind its movements, and the culture that produced it.

This is not a commercial organisation. Training is free. When expenses occasionally arise, such as venue hire or training materials, they are shared voluntarily among participants.

What We Study

The system we study is known as R.E.I. Sabre Fencing, named after the Regio Esercito Italiano (Royal Italian Army).

Our reconstruction is based upon the fencing system used untill 1884. The foundamental texts are: Settimo Del Frate military sabre manuals, the anonymus 'Sinossi della Scherma di Sciabola', Giordano Rossi and other authors from Radaellian tradition.

The reconstruction aims to preserve both the technical content and the educational structure of the original military system.

What Makes This Method Different?

R.E.I. Sabre Fencing focuses on developing a complete fencer rather than teaching isolated techniques. This method is complete and can be studied by beginners as well as experienced fencers.

Students begin with Military Training and progress to Practical Fencing

Military Training

The Military Course develops:

• posture and balance;
• correct use of the sabre;
• footwork and measure;
• gardes and parries;
• mulinelli;
• thrusts and cuts;
• recorvery and weapon control;
• assault exercises.

The purpose of this phase is to build the correct habits and mechanical efficency. Only after these foundations have been established do students progress to Practical Fencing.

Practical Fencing

The Practical Course applies those fundamentals against an opponent.

Students study:

• tactical assaults;
• feints;
• remises;
• composite parries;
• countertime;
• actions on the blade;
• efforts (sforzi);
• measure and timing;
• tactical decision-making.

Who Can Join?

Anyone with a genuine interest in: historical fencing, martial arts, military history, historical weapons, personal development or traditional systems of instruction.

Previous fencing experience is not required.

Curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn are far more important.