Welcome to The Appleton WHFA
We have provided a safe, supportive, and challenging environment for the study of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) in the Appleton area for over a decade. Our team of expert instructors have skills covering the whole breadth of Europe’s martial history.
No previous experience is necessary.
Whether you want to hone skills developed in other martial arts, explore history firsthand or just find an exciting new workout we have something for you!
Weapons
Sword and Buckler
The oldest system in the European tradition dating to the 13th century, focusing on the use of the traditional arming sword and small hand shield. Sword and Buckler is covered during our Wednesday class.
LongSword
The Longsword is the iconic weapon of our history books and movies. Though our training swords are blunt for our safety. the martial skills we learn are the same used in the during the 14th and 15th centuries. The Appleton WHFA primarily teaches German masters such as Liechtenauer or Meyers. However, students are encouraged to explore other traditions. The Longsword is covered in both our Tuesday and Thursday classes.
Messer and Dussack
The Messer and Dussack are a closely aligned family of cut and thrust swords ranging from the 15th to the 16th century. Both are covered during our Monday class.
Ringen
Ringen is the traditional German grappling system dated to the 15th century, practiced both with and without a dagger. Ringen is covered during our Sunday class.
Quarterstaff and Greatsword
Both the Quarterstaff and Greatsword saw heavy use in the 16th century, with their use being similar enough that the Quarterstaff was often used as a training tool for the Greatsword. Our classes are constantly rotating, keep an eye out for new class time announcements.
Sidesword and Rapier
The Sidesword and Rapier represent a family of swords that began development in the early 16th century. The Sidesword is a jack of all trades cut an thrust system that became popular for self-defense and as a military side arm throughout the 16th and 17th centuries. The Rapier is a later iteration focusing heavily on the thrust over the cut, seeing use between the 17th and early 19th century. Rapier is currently covered during our Thursday class.
Sabre
Students will learn and exercise the military traditions and applications of the sabre of 18 and 19th century Western Europe. Class structure will cover a range of topics including instruction on military sabre fundamentals, history and context of its application, drills and games to develop physical wellness and strong fencing practices. Our classes are constantly rotating, keep an eye out for new class time announcements.
Smallsword
Poise. Focus. Resolve. These and more will be developed as students follow a unique curriculum on the use of the 18th century iconic dueling weapon of Western Europe. Our classes are constantly rotating, keep an eye out for new class time announcements.
Ready to Get Started?
Now is the best time to start, we accept all students over the age of 14. Observers are welcome at all class times! Once you decide to participate the first class is free. Loaner equipment is available to all new students.
Training Location
We proudly own and operate the Badger’s Den Sword Academy in downtown Appleton.
Badger’s Den Sword Academy
1130 W Wisconsin Ave.
Appleton WI 54914
Parking is behind the building off of W Kamps Ave.