Our School

THE Sussex Rapier School (SRS) has two main goals.

Firstly, to pursue and promote the study and practice of the western martial art of the Italian Rapier and accompanying weapons, from its inception to its last appearance and play a part in its renascence as a live martial art. (We do not teach sports fencing).

Secondly, to encourage the study of the teachings of the 16th to 19th Century Italian fencing masters. The SRS applies their principles in practice through training exercises and “free assault” to teach a greater understanding of this art and science of fencing.

Andrew Feest and Duncan Fatz are BFHS Certified Instructors who teach an ever evolving and expanding system to their students. The system we teach is in preparation for the duel as if the weapons were sharp, to touch without being touched.

Regular classes are held each week and occasional weekend workshops are held with SRS and guest instructors. They will cover rapier and many other disciplines of the Western Martial Arts.

“The aim of fencing is the defense of oneself, from whence it derives its name; because to fence does not mean other than defending oneself, for defense and protection, are words with same meaning. For this reason one should recognizes the value and the excellence of this discipline and it should be as beloved as the love of one's own life... ”
Ridolfo Capo Ferro 1610