Barony of Starkhafn

The Forces of Starkhafn

The SCA provides many opportunities for people to explore various medieval and renaissance martial arts forms. Members of the Barony of Starkhafn have many different forms of martial arts that they practice on a regular basis. Among those forms are:

Heavy Weapons Combat

This martial arts form is a recreation of the armored, knightly, hack and stab combat of the Dark and Middle Ages, fought as both single combats and on large scale battlefields. Participants are required to wear an array of armor for their own protection. Swords are constructed of Rattan, a stiff vine with weight and handling characteristics similar to steel. Warrior cultures throughout history have used rattan to recreate swords as it flexes slightly upon impact, allowing for participants to fight at full speed, using full power impacts and full body mechanics while reducing the risk of broken bones and serious injuries.

Rapier Combat

This martial arts form is a recreation of the unarmored sword dueling form which became prevalent in the Renaissance. Common forms include rapier and dagger, rapier and buckler and double rapier. Protective equipment includes a fencing mask, a protective doublet and gloves. Combat is vigorous an fast and to touch only and recreates the flavor of sources such as Shakespeare and Alexander Dumas.

Target Archery

In addition to battlefield archery (which is part of Heavy Weapons Combat) the SCA supports and recognizes target archery. Different types of archery competitions take place throughout the year; in some of these competitions one can bring whatever equipment they wish, in others the requirements for historical equipment are quite stringent. Information about target archery practices can be found here.

Children's Boffers

In the SCA children are given an opportunity to experience a limited form of recreation in which they can learn about sportsmanship and courtesy. This form is called "boffers" and is conducted with safety equipment and light padded batons. Information about Children's Boffers can be found *here.

Starkhafn Levy

School of Fence

The Northern Alliance

The Baroness' Honor Guard

Equestrian Arts

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