Fencing to First Blood... Why Though?

Back in 2020 I reacted to a video of nutjobs fighting with sharp swords. This is not that reckless, but definitely something I highly advise AGAINST every trying. It's a sparring match with semi-sharp replicas of 16th century fencing swords (Federschwert) with no protection except light gloves and modern Mensur style goggles with nose guard. Their goal is to produce a bleeding scalp cut, as was common in duels and recreational fencing in the 16th century. Obviously most HEMA practitioners would not approve of this practice, and it's extremely unsafe. I try to be fair in my reaction, without holding back on concerns and criticism. Recklessness aside, the skill displayed here is impressive. The videos I'm commenting on (by ‪@nikm2106‬): Blossfechten 2026: A longsword fight to the first bleeding wound    • Blossfechten Fechtschule 2026: A longsword...   HEMA historical fencing longsword exchanges exchanges    • HEMA historical fencing longsword exchange...   16th Century German style longsword no gear fencing to first blood AUG 2021 (DON'T TRY AT HOME)    • 16th Century German style longsword no gea...   Pictures: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi... https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi... https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi... https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Fi... https://wiktenauer.com/wiki/Paulus_He... https://wiktenauer.com/wiki/Joachim_M... https://wiktenauer.com/wiki/Fiore_de%... Article about Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): https://neurosciencenews.com/blood-br... ** Support the channel ** Help fund future videos, get bonus content and access to an exclusive Discord server:   / skallagrim      / @skallagrim   Merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/skallswag/ If you want to join Bonfire to start selling your own merch: https://www.bonfire.com/welcome/07bb1... Other ways to support the channel by shopping through affiliate links: Kult of Athena, my favorite online store for reproductions of historical arms and armor, fantasy swords, etc: https://www.kultofathena.com/?koa=259 Where to get HEMA gear and practice swords: http://www.woodenswords.com/?Click=1799 GamerSupps powdered energy drinks and other stuff (I particularly like the SUS snack bars): https://gamersupps.gg/Skall I highly recommend the balms and oils from Beard Sorcery: https://beardsorcery.com/?ref=0UEFtHW... ** Other social media ** https://bsky.app/profile/skallagrim.b...   / skallagrimyt     / skallagrim_yt   #skallagrim #hema #swordfighting #commentary #reaction