AEthelmearc Half-Sword Experiment

*Duration:*
Experiment to begin immediately.
Experiment to last until the official start of Pennsic 39 (Land Grab Day)

*Weapons that can be used: *
Any Sword that is designed primarily to be used with two hands.

*Experiment Identifications:*
Nothing for the weapon. As it is the use of the weapon that is experimental not the weapon itself.
Prior to engaging an opponent in half-sword they experimental combatant must obtain the opponents permission as well as the marshal of the event/practice. He must also be sure the marshal and the opponent has a complete understanding of the terms of the experiment.

*Terms of the experiment:*
When using half-swording, you will be permitted to grab any part of your sword.
Your opponent will also be permitted to grab any portion of your sword.
Grasping or tripping your opponent is not permitted.
While it is being swung, the striking surface of an opponents sword may not be grasped by the hand as a means of impeding a blow. Doing so will result in the loss of the offending arm.
While the hand cannot be targeted, if you intentionally put your hand in the way of a blow, it will be deemed that you have lost that arm.
If you are using a half-sword technique against an opponent using a weapon other than a two handed sword then you may not grasp their blade. They may, however, grasp yours within the guidelines set out above.
Any 'proper aligned blow struck with sufficient force' the will be deemed good. This includes strikes made with the part of the sword between the hands. Thrusts will be treated the same.
Two handed sword may have tail spikes. (This is not experimental this is current policy.)
You may add thrusting tips to the cross-guard of two handed sword as long as the cross guard conforms to the materials of construction approved for striking surfaces. (This is not experimental this is current policy.) By that I mean (Rattan or non-rigid materials) LET ME BE CLEAR: No thrusting tips on metal or Siloflex quillions!!!

*Who may participate:*
As we do not see a safety issue with this experiment we invite all subjects of AEthelmearc who have completed their "Great Weapon" authorization to participate in the experiment.
You must register with Earl Yngvar prior to beginning the experiment so you can be updated on changes within the experiment. 
If you wish to register to participate in this experiment please click here.

*Where is its use NOT allowed:*

• Any event/Practice where the Marshal In Charge says no!
• Any fight where any opponent says no. (remember permission must be obtained from every person you will fight prior to engaging.)
• Any Crown Tournament or Kingdom Championship

*Reporting:*
All who participate in the experiment must report at a minimum the following information:

• Length of weapon used
• Pommel construction with details about any additional tips.
• Were these additional tips used with any degree of effectiveness.
• Any dangerous, injurious, or potentially injurious instances that occurred while participating in the experiment.
• Was the weapon used in group or single combat.
• Any constructive comments and/or opinions of the opponent(s)
• Reporting will be monthly and immediately following any injury or incident resulting from this experiment.  CLICK HERE TO REPORT

If you wish to register to participate in this experiment please click here.