Combat styles
We use two combat systems as our primary means of combat. We use these systems while training & taking parts of various events and shows. Both systems follow specific sets of rules to maintain competitive flair & ensure the safety of all participants. These two systems are honour-based, point-scoring rounds. There are target zones that successful hit will give a 'wound'. Depending on the number of wounds allowed - you either carry on or die by taking a knee, stepping off or laying down depending on a game played.
Eastern+ Rules
Each participant is allowed 1 wound, target whole upper-body (excluding hands) & Shorts areas (excluding knees). Horizontal hits to the head, face and neck are forbidden. Spears are not allowed to hit above the nipple-height. All hits have to be clean, with appropriate force.
Huscarl Rules
Each participant is allowed 2 wounds, target the whole body excluding the face & neck. Spears are not allowed to hit above the nipple-height. Shots to the feet are heavily discouraged due to overall unavailability to appropriate feet protection. All hits have to be clean, with appropriate force.
Training
Our training sessions currently take place across 3 sites:
Walsall, Telford and Doncaster. (See the Contact Us page)
We strive to develop and maintain good relationships within local communities. This enables us to make full use of local community centers for training.
Each location has a leader who ensures the sessions have spare gear for newcomers.
We practice 1v1 combat, combat in a shield wall, discuss and practice our latest combat strategies while having a laugh and helping each other become better warriors. These sessions are great for general fitness and mental health. They are also a safe space to share as much, or as little about yourself as you wish.
We often post videos from our training sessions on our Instagram,TikTok and Youtube so be sure to follow us on those platforms
What a training session looks like courtesy of our Doncaster based Dreyri Hrafn group
Real Weapons
The weapons used are real metal weapons that are blunted. Although they will not cut you, they leave big bruises if a hit is taken in an unprotected part of the body.
There are an several weapon types used in combat [See the Armouries Weapons page]. All weapons are based on archaeological evidence from the viking age and are replicated for historical accuracy.
Protection
Modern protection is used such as Riot Gear and Motocross protection. All modern protection is covered with authentic clothing at events.
All helmets should be 2mm thick with a padded cap inside to prevent concussion. Generally the head is the most protected area, meaning it is the safest place to get hit!
Eastern combat in action...
