Crutch

The crutch is a term used to describe a type of counter or counterward in historical swordfighting.

Arming Sword and Buckler

The term is applied to a counter illustrated in Royal Armouries MS I.33.

The Crutch is taken up by standing left foot forward, buckler is held out and just above the eyeline, and the sword is held tucked next to the buckler (in the first position and the blade hanging down and at an angle towards the left side.

Stimulus

It is appropriate to adopt this counter when faced against a fencer in the one of the following ward(s):

• Underarm