We’ve been working on the Schielhauw (squinting cut) and have uncovered some refinements that we don’t want to lose.

Which Schielhauw to use?

When being attacked from above or to your upper-left opening, use the Schielhauw that ends in an extended left Ochs. That is to say, with your arms uncrossed.

If the attack is coming at your right side, use the Schielhauw that ends in an extended right Ochs with crossed arms.

Where should I aim?

On either side aim for the shoulder between his blade and head. If you miss left or right then you’ll either hit his head or his arm, a good outcome either way.

This will also make it hard for your opponent to throw a Zwerch to the other side. Nor can he use a Zucken, as he won’t be able to clear your point.

How should I contact my opponent’s blade?

This is somewhat tricky to explain. To start, well call the flat on the side of the back of your right hand the “outside flat”.

With with uncrossed Schielhauw, you’ll turn the sword over by rotating it clockwise. The outside flat, now on the left side, may or may not contact his blade. Then as you snap it down, your short edge will strike his flat or short edge, collapsing it.

Why does it work?

The Schielhauw against a cut from the right puts outward pressure against the right wrist. With the momentum and skeletal structure directed downward, there is nothing to support the wrist and it bends. The arms continue downward, but the blade is no longer properly aligned.

How should I step?

Step outwards, away from his cut. Don’t bother stepping forward, as he’ll close the distance for you. Stepping in doesn’t weaken the parry but it does allow your hand to be struck in the process.

Why are my hands being hit?

Probably because you are stepping forward. If not that, you may not be extending your arms enough. Really push them out there so that you end in a sound hanging guard.

How do I make it look cool?

Have your partner throw a more powerful blow. The harder he swings the more effective this parry will be. When confronted with a true buffalo strike, I’ve seen a 5’ 2” lady unbalance a 6’, 250 lb fencer so that he fell forward and could have been easily pushed to the ground.