Harnischfechten

Harnischfechten, or armored fencing, is a traditional German martial art from the 17th and 18th centuries that combines fencing with armor combat. Practitioners wear protective gear and engage in controlled sparring or duels, emphasizing technique, timing, and strategy to score hits on specific target areas. The practice was historically used for training soldiers and duelists, blending elements of fencing, combat tactics, and simulate battlefield conditions. Today, it is preserved as a historical martial art and sport, focusing on skill development within the context of historical armor and weapons.