This is a practical guide to smallsword fencing intended for beginners, foilists who wish to try a dueling weapon, and coaches looking for practical exercises for their students. The exercises provided were used in fencing academies centuries ago and are still applicable today. They are easily incorporated into practice sessions. Also included are fight sequences designed to guide the fencer in employing good swordplay when sparring.

This book offers a bit of everything. Fencing expert Michael Stevens outlines for the reader how fencing with a smallsword differs from modern competitive sports fencing, focusing on scoring points and on avoiding injury. He briefly examines the history of the smallsword and has included a section on fencing theory, explaining how to hold the sword and outlining the various thrusts and parries. He provides advice on how to best spar with the smallsword and how to cope with fencers who present different challenges.