Attacks of the Spear

This week I want to demonstrate the basic attacks and defences of the spear in the extended position.

Five Types of Spear Attacks

There are five types of attacks you can make with the spear:

1. Firm-Footed

Extend the spear forward while keeping your feet stationary. Let your body follow naturally through the extension.

2. Lunge

The lunge combines the firm-footed motion with a forward step, mirroring rapier technique. Extend the spear as you step forward with your lead foot.

3. Long Strike

During the lunge, push the spear through your lead hand with your base hand until they meet. Your hands should end up extended lower than the spear tip.

4. Passing Strike

Release the lead hand while twisting your shoulders. This allows the base hand to drive the spear forward independently. Complete the attack by passing your back foot forward.

5. Shuttle Strike

Begin with a long strike, allowing the base hand to slide forward over the lead hand. Complete the technique with a body rotation to switch lead sides.

Key Point to Remember

In all these strikes, remember to keep the point high enough to protect your head, especially as you recover back to your guard position. A dropped point leaves you vulnerable to counter-attacks during your recovery.

The spear is one of humanity’s oldest and most effective weapons. These fundamental attacks form the basis for more advanced techniques and combinations that you’ll learn as you progress.