Fencing Draft:Change Log and Notes

Version 5.4 (will become version 6 when approved)

1.3.4 in General information

Was

Guest fencers must meet the Kingdom’s standards for protective gear and weapons set out in these rules.

Now

Guest fencers must meet Lochac’s standards for protective gear and weapons set out in these rules.

Functional change

None

Reason

Clarification as to whether host kingdom or Lochac's standards.

For notes section

Not required

1.4.1.2.b in in Application of the rules - General

Was

All fencers and marshals should make sure they keep up with these announcements.

Now

All fencers and marshals must make sure they keep up with these announcements.

Functional change

This is a requirement. It's not just recommended, and not optional.

Reason

"Should" implies there are valid reasons for not keeping up with these announcments. It's not optional.

For notes section

Not required

1.5.4 in Youth activities

Was

... ensure that the minor's parent or legal guardian has:

• ...
• and has signed a statement explicitly acknowledging this.

Now

...ensure that the minor's parent or legal guardian has:

• ...
• and has signed a statement explicitly acknowledging this by completing the relevant minor participation form.

Functional change

None, clarification only

Reason

Links to relevant paperwork that we use for this purpose.

For notes section

None required

1.6.1 Key changes to the rules

• Removed as duplication of information held elsewhere in the document, and no longer current for this round of changes.
• See this change log for the full list of changes.

Rules for fencers

When you are allowed to fence

2.1.1

Was

You must be authorised in fencing to participate in any combat event.

Now

You must be authorised in fencing to participate in any combat event. You need to be able to prove that you are authorised by presenting a current authorisation card or valid temporary paperwork.

Functional change

None. Reminder that you need to prove that you are authorised.

Reason

Reminder that you need to prove that you are authorised to participate.

For notes section

June 2023 - A reminder that you need to prove that you are authorised to participate by presenting a current authorisation card, or your temporary paperwork until your card arrives.

2.1.2 in When you are allowed to fence

Was

To be authorised, you have to pass a verbal and practical test to show that you...

Now

To be authorised, you have to pass a verbal and practical combat test to show that you...

Functional change

Addition of the word "combat" to highlight that the practical component must include combat

Reason

The handbook currently has two phrases meaning the same component of the authorising process. This combines them.

For notes section

June 2023 - The practical component of authorisations must include combat.

2.1.5 in When you are allowed to fence

Additional text

If you are not legally fit to drive, you are not fit to fight.

Functional change

None

Reason

Mirroring language in armoured handbook, doubling down on importance of proper judgement when fighting.

For notes section

None required

2.1.6

Was

If you suffer an injury involving bleeding, you must leave the field immediately. You must have the wound cleaned and dressed before you return to the field. Any weapons, equipment or clothing that have visible blood on them must be cleaned, or not used further.

Now

If you have an injury involving free flowing blood, you must leave the field immediately and may not return until the flow of blood has stopped. Clean affected weapons and equipment before use. Clean affected weapons and equipment before use.

Functional change

Wait until bleeding has stopped before returning to the field. Dressing the wound not specifically required, though may be practical to prevent further irritation.

Reason

Matches wording in Armoured Combat rules 4.2.7. Dressing the wound may not be required once bleeding has stopped, and clothing may be permanently stained with blood even after laundering. We don't require this in our other activities.

2.1.7 in When you are allowed to fence

Insert new rule, and renumber subsequent rules

If there is an incident where you think you may have been concussed, you must leave the field immediately, and may not return to combat activities of any type until cleared to do so by a healthcare professional. The signs and symptoms of suspected concussion can be found in Concussion in Sport Group's Concussion Recognition Tool 5.

Functional change

Mirroring the requirements for withdrawing if bleeding, and aligning with the injury management procedures. You must leave the field if you suspect you have been concussed.

Reason

We want to highlight the risk of concussion, and help our people learn to recognise it in themselves and other participants.

For notes section

June 2023 - We have added this rule to help you know what to do if you think you might have been concussed, and how to recognise it. Even minor head injuries can have long-term consequences if not treated with due care.

2.4.1.2 in Types of Fencing - General

Insert new rule and renumber subsequent rules

Different types of fencing combat cannot face each other in the same bout. For example, Cut and Thrust may not face Standard fencing.

Functional change

Prevents opponents from using different rules in the same bout.

Reason

Bouts must operate under a single ruleset; this change prevents a clash. Was not clear previously.

For notes section

June 2023 - Clarified that the different fencing types may not be used in the same bout - eg one opponent may not use Cut and Thrust rules while the other uses Standard Fencing rules.

2.6.2 Striking your opponent

• What was 2.6.2.1 Killing from behind has been renumbered to 2.6.3 to avoid a numbering clash with 2.6.2 Striking your opponent's sub rules.
• What was 2.6.2.2 Killing a gunner has been renumbered to 2.6.4 to avoid a numbering clash with 2.6.2 Striking your opponent's sub rules.
• Subsequent rules have been renumbered, and links to these sections updated.

2.6.2.4 Striking your opponent

Was

You and your opponent need to agree to allow the use of tip cuts before the bout

Now

Removed

Subsequent rules renumbered

Functional change

Opponents no longer need to agree to the use of tip cuts beforre they can be used.

Reason

Tip cuts are an accepted part of fencing combat in Lochac.

For notes section

June 2023 - Tip cuts are an accepted part of fencing combat in Lochac, so the previous requirement to agree to use them has been removed.

Was 2.6.2.1, now 2.6.3 Killing from behind

Insert new rules

2.6.3.3 - You must use "killing from behind" when you are behind the line of your opponent's shoulders. Marshals may further restrict this angle at their discretion.

2.6.3.4 - If “killing from behind” is not allowed in the scenario, you may not strike your opponent while behind the line of your opponent's shoulders.

Functional change

Clarification added for when killing from behind may be used, and allows marshals to add additional restrictions

Reason

Adds clarity around when killing from behind can be used. Marshals will be able to add additional restrictions (such as "outside of 120 degrees of the front arc"), but this is very difficult to clearly legislate.

For notes section

June 2023 - Clarification added for when killing from behind may be used, and allows marshals to add additional restrictions

Was 2.6.5.8, now 2.6.7.8 in Defensive objects

Was

You can briefly hold your opponent's blade to control it, but both of you must agree to use grasping during the bout. Grasping should be for no more than a couple of seconds, so that you do not start wrestling for the blade.

Now

If both you and your opponent agree to use blade grasping during a bout, you can briefly hold your opponent's blade to control it. Grasping should be for no more than a couple of seconds, so that you do not start wrestling for the blade. Blade grasping includes, but is not limited to, taking hold of an opponent's blade with your hand, or circling a blade with fingers, such as index and thumb in an "OK" sign as shown in figure 1.

Figure 1. Circling a blade with finger and thumb is an example of blade grasping.

Functional change

Examples of blade grasping included.

Reason

Some fencers have been known to circle a blade with an index and thumb, claiming this is not grasping the blade. This is unacceptable and unchivalric "rules lawyering" to take advantage of an unclear rule.

For notes section

June 2023 - Examples of blade grasping have been included, as this was previously unclear.

2.6.7.9 in Defensive objects

Insert new rule

When grasping, parrying, or otherwise controlling your opponent's weapon or body (such as by parrying the wrist), fighters must ensure they do so in a safe manner. It is the obligation of the fighter grasping, parrying, or taking control of an opponent's weapon to ensure they avoid wrenching, twisting or pressing a joint beyond natural limits.

Functional change

Reminds fighters that these actions hold risk of hurting their opponent, so must be carried out carefully.

Reason

Accidental overextension of opponent's joints has been observed repeatedly, especially when taking control of a spear where the fighter is unable to drop the object. This emphasises the importance of control and that, should there be an incident, the burden is on the fighter who performed the action to justify their action.

For notes section

June 2023 - Following a number of incidents of accidental overextension of an opponent's joints, rule 2.6.7.9 has been added as a reminder to take care.

2.7.3 in Taking blows

Was

The only time this changes is if organisers hold a tournament where they define areas of the body that are protected as if you were wearing real armour.

Now

The only time these rules change is if organisers hold a tournament or other event with different victory conditions (for example, saying "only blows to the head count").

Functional change

Allows for alternate scenario rules for combat.

Reason

Aligns closer to Society standard while also providing more flexibility for alternate rulesets for Marshals.

For notes section

June 2023 - Marshals may use scenarios that allow for different victory conditions, eg. restricting target areas or counted blows.

2.7.7.e-g in Taking blows

Insert new rules

(e) It is courteous to turn a kneeling or seated combatant so that they are not facing into the sun.

(f) When one combatant is kneeling or seated and the other is standing, it is forbidden for the standing combatant to circle, turn or "corkscrew" the kneeling combatant more than 90 degrees in either direction from the starting position.

(g) It is forbidden for a standing combatant to over bear or press (with body, weapon or other object) a kneeling or seated combatant to the point that the kneeling or seated combatant cannot straighten their upper body perpendicular to the ground. This rule is meant to allow the kneeling or seated combatant to straighten if they desire and is not intended to keep the standing combatant from leaning forward to stay in range if the kneeling or seated combatant leans back.

Functional change

Addition of rules to maintain the comfort of a legged fighter.

Reason

This language is taken verbatim from the Lochac Armoured Combat Handbook, and then adding "or seated". It works to ensure a more controlled bout without unnecessarily discomforting the legged fighter.

For notes section

June 2023 - Addition of rules to maintain the comfort of a legged fighter. These rules are similar to those found in armoured combat.

2.8.1.2 in Wearing protective equipment - General requirements

Was

You must wear full face protection for weapons drills using a spear.

Now

You must wear full face protection for weapons drills against an opponent using a spear.

Functional change

You must wear full face protection if you are drilling against an opponent who has a spear, rather than if you are using one yourself

Reason

Facing the spear is the risky part, not using it.

For notes section

June 2023 - You must wear full face protection when your opponent has a spear during drills.

2.8.3.1-2 in Wearing protective equipment - Neck

Was

2.8.1 - You must wear a gorget (collar) made from rigid material to protect your entire neck and throat. This should be backed by resilient padding or penetration-resistant material.

Now

You must wear a gorget (collar) made from rigid material to protect your entire neck and throat. This should be backed by resilient padding or penetration-resistant material. Figure 2 shows the area which must be protected.

2.8.2 has been removed and replaced by:

Neck protection with a gap of less than 9mm (for example, where the ends of two plates meet) meets this standard, so long as the gap is not within the front or rear 90 degree arc.

Functional change

Clarifies areas that must be covered by rigid material, and what sized gaps may be allowed.

Reason

Updates rules to remain practical and more in line with Society requirements, without reducing safety from existing practice.

The deleted section of this rule has not been enforced since a variation was introduced at least prior to 2008, as the understanding of "cervical verterbrae" differs from what is strictly written. As currently written, gorgets must protect the entire cervical column to the base of the skull, which no known gorgets do so (though gorget combined with rigid back of head protection often does so). This revised rule is equivalent to what fencers in Lochac are currently doing already, and what is accepted international practice. This issue has been raised with SRM on two occasions with no response; I expect because it would require a rapid change, such as what we are proposing here. There is no loss in safety by having a small gap, and Lochac rules are already stricter than Society level rules. Fencing blunts will not be able to penetrate this gap; this clarifies expectations around incidental gaps.

For notes section

June 2023 - Image added to clarify what parts of the neck must be protected by rigid material, and what sized gaps may be allowed.

3.8.3.4 in Other Marshal responsibilities - Kingdom Fencing Marshal

Was

You can also use your discretion to authorise a fencing marshal in any category that you believe is required to benefit the Kingdom and the Society. This might include appointing experienced fencers or marshals in a category in order to promote that type of fencing within a group.

Now

You can also use your discretion to authorise a Fencing Marshal or Authorising Fencing Marshal without undertaking the normal processes, should you believe it is required to benefit the Kingdom and the Society. This might include appointing experienced fighters as marshals in order to promote that type of fencing within a group. This should only be done when the normal process cannot be appiled, and does not overrule any other requirements. For example, Authorising Fencing Marshals must still be authorised in a form of combat to authorise fencers in that form.

Functional change

Clarifies the role of the Kingdom Fencing Marshal and removes the ability to authorise a fencer without any practical or verbal test.

Reason

Normal procedures should be followed as closely as possible. We don't wish to see any fighter being authorised for combat by fiat without a proper physical test of their competence on the field.

For notes section

June 2023 - Combat authorisations must include a practical combat test. There may be extreme circustances where the normal procedures for authorising an authorising fencing marshal may not be able to be followed, just as an inability to access other authorising fencing marshals to conduct the test. The Kingdom Fencing Marshal will endeavour to replicate the normal process as closely as possible given the circumstances.

4.7.2.5 in Rules for managing incidents - further action

Was

The test might be:

• a verbal test to confirm that the person understands the rule in question
• a combat test, where the fencer fights under the supervision of the impartial marshal to confirm that the issue has been resolved.

Now

The test might be:

• a verbal test to confirm that the person understands the rule in question
• a practical combat test, where the fencer fights under the supervision of the impartial marshal to confirm that the issue has been resolved.

Functional change

None - applying consistent terminology

Reason

The handbook currently has two phrases meaning the same component of the authorising process. This combines them.

For notes section

No notes required.

5.1.2 in Rules for equipment - Protective material

Was

...Example of rigid material that may comply with the standard are:

• 0.8mm stainless steel or 1mm mild steel
• 1.6mm aluminium, copper or brass
• One layer of hardened heavy leather (225g/8oz; 4mm).

Now

...Examples of rigid material that may comply with the standard are:

• 0.8mm stainless steel or 1mm mild steel
• 1.6mm aluminium, copper or brass
• One layer of hardened heavy leather (225g/8oz; 3.2mm).

Functional change

Heavy leather may be lighter than previously listed

Reason

The handbook currently has two conflicting definitions of heavy leather. This standardises and aligns with Society rules at 3.2mm

For notes section

June 2023 - The handbook previously had two contradicting definitions of 8oz heavy leather. We have settled on 3.2mm for 8oz leather to be consistent with Society rules.

5.2.4 in Rules for equipment - Swords and daggers

Insert new rule

Bladed weapons must not have more than one blade

Functional change

Adds requirement that bladed weapons may only have one blade.

Reason

To align with 6.2.4 of Society level rules.

For notes section

June 2023 - Added requirement for blade weapons to only have one blade as per Society rules.

5.3 Blades

Was

Sword and dagger blades used in Lochac can be made of steel or fibreglass.

Now

Sword and dagger blades used in Lochac can be made of steel or fibreglass. The use of fiberglass blades is listed in Society's Exceptions to Allowed Blades rules

Functional change

None

Reason

The use of fibreglass blades is not currently listed in Society Fencing rules, so linking to the document that currently provides for us to continue to use them.

For notes section

June 2023 - Approval has been sought from the Society Rapier Marshal and US Board of Directors for a variance to use fibreglass blades in Lochac on an ongoing basis. At present, approval only exists in an appendix to the previous Society Fencing rules, and is not referenced elsewhere, but still published on the Society website. This variance will allow Lochac to continue to use fibreglass blades should that document be removed.

5.4.2.b in Rules for equipment - Tips

Was

The blunt must have a minimum size of 9mm on any surface that strikes the opponent.

Now

The blunt must have a minimum size of 10mm on any surface that strikes the opponent.

Functional change

Increase in required blunt size by 1mm

Reason

In line with other blunt definitions in the handbook

For notes section

June 2023 - Blunt size has been increased to 10mm from 9mm to make it consistent throughout the handbook.

5.6 Spears

Was

5.6.1 General

You can use two kinds of spears for fencing combat in Lochac. These are:

• rubber-headed spears
• steel-headed spears.

Now

5.6 Spears

5.6.1 - You can use rubber-headed spears for fencing combat in Lochac. You cannot use steel-headed spears.

Subsequent rules from what was 5.6.2 become subrules of 5.6 (5.6.2-7, and what was 5.6.3 Steel-headed spears is removed entirely.

Functional change

Steel-headed spears are no longer permitted in Lochac or the rest of Society.

Reason

Steel spears are not permitted for fencing combat after 31 December 2021, at the direction of the Society Marshal.

For notes section

June 2023 - Steel spears were no longer not permitted for fencing combat after 31 December 2021, at the direction of the Society Marshal.

5.7.2.10 in Rules for equipment - Rubber band guns

Insert new rule

Rubber tubing used to make ammunition must have a minimum diameter of 6 mm while at rest.

Functional change

Rubber tubing used to make rubber band gun ammunition now has a minimum tube diameter

Reason

To align with 6.4.3 of Society level rules (though Society rules state "in flight", which is not measurable).

For notes section

June 2023 - Added rule about diameter of rubber tubing used for rubber band ammunition to align with Society Fencing rules.

5.8.2.4 in Rules for equipment - Defensive objects

Was

Not in rules

Now

Non-standard defensive equipment includes, but is not limited to:

• bucklers with a spike or projection more than two inches perpendicular to the main plane of the buckler or the central boss, whichever is applicable. The central boss does not count as a spike or projection.
• bucklers with additions which could reasonably be expected to trap or catch a blade (such as rings or hooks);
• axes;
• Talhoffer "judicial duelling shields" and Talhoffer bucklers;and
• bucklers made out of uncommon materials, such as vegetables, children's toys, etc.

Fencers should use common sense when applying this definition and be conservative when considering if a defensive item is non-standard, especially when a less-experienced fighter is concerned if an object would be safe to fence against.

Functional change

More items may now clearly be defined as non-standard.

Reason

Current language around non-standard defensive equipment is unclear, is limited in scope, and is open to interpretations. A change is needed to assist in clarity while also protecting fencers from potentially advanced tools. A blanket approval for these items would allow barely-authorised fencers to use a tool which could be safe in the hands of an expert, but not a newer fencer. This is a mid point compromise between banning for safety, and blanket approval.

"Non-standard" defensive items require the marshal and opponent to agree to their use.

For notes section

June 2023 - Previous language around non-standard defensive equipment was open to interpretations. A change was needed to assist in clarity while also protecting fencers from potentially advanced tools. A blanket approval for these items would have allowed barely-authorised fencers to use a tool which could be safe in the hands of an expert, but not a newer fencer. The wording used is a mid-point compromise between banning for safety, and blanket approval.

6.2.3.1.a in Inspecting equipment - Inspecting spears

Was

For rubber-headed spears, check that the tip is flexible, and returns substantially to its original shape within 3 seconds.

Now

Check that the rubber tip is flexible, and returns substantially to its original shape within 3 seconds.

Functional change

None

Reason

Only rubber-headed spears may be used.

For notes section

June 2023 - Process updated to remove reference to steel-headed spears.

6.2.3.1.b

Was

For metal-headed spears, follow the inspection methods for a bladed weapon.

Now

Removed

Reason

Metal-headed spears are no longer permitted

6.2.3.1.b (replacement)

Insert new rule

A marshal should not use significant force to make a spear head bend; you should not need more pressure than can be comfortably applied by the wrist. If in doubt and where possible, a second marshal should be used to judge the flexibility of the spear head.

Functional change

Sets a more objective measure of flexibility

Reason

Most objects can be subject to significant tensile strength and many can return to their original shape within 3 seconds. As written, and as evidenced by some newer spear head designs, a marshal can apply a significant tensile load to a spear head (up to and including significant pressure from a hip whole body movement) to make a spear head "pass". This is unacceptable and unsafe. This is a stop-gap solution until a broader Society flex-test can be developed (underway).

For notes section

June 2023 - Spear head flex testing - Most objects can be subject to significant tensile strength and many can return to their original shape within 3 seconds. As previously written, a marshal could apply a significant tensile load to a spear head (up to and including significant pressure from a hip whole body movement) to make a spear head "pass". This was unacceptable and unsafe. The current wording is is a stop-gap solution until a broader Society flex-test can be developed.

6.2.3.2.a

Was

Check that the haft is made of appropriate material (rattan for rubber-headed spears; wood or rattan for metal-headed spears).

Now

Check that the haft is made of rattan.

Reason

Metal-headed spears are no longer permitted

6.2.3.2.b

Was

Check that the rattan haft is the appropriate diameter (between 28.5 mm and 35 mm).

Now

Check that the haft is between 28.5 mm and 35 mm in diameter.

Reason

Rattan is the only material allowed for spears.

6.2.3.2.c

Was

Check that the spear is the appropriate length (no longer than 275 cm for rubber-headed spears, or 244 cm for metal-headed spears).

Now

Check that the spear is no longer than 275 cm.

Reason

Metal-headed spears are no longer permitted

7 Safety tests

• Addition of heading General to prevent numbering collision with following section
• Following rules renumbered

7.1 in Safety tests

Insert new rule

Tests to penetration-resistant material must be made on the object itself, not a swatch of identical material, unless such a swatch undergoes the same stresses as the garment by being sewn onto the inside of a garment, as the swatch will not otherwise have undergone the same stresses over time.

Functional change

Clarification to ensure that a swatch of material cannot be kept in a closet and brought out to punch test; the protective garment itself must be subject to the test.

Reason

Swatch of fabric will otherwise not be subjected to the same wear and tear as the garment itself.

For notes section

June 2023 - Clarification added to ensure that a swatch of material cannot be kept in a closet and brought out to punch test; the protective garment itself must be subject to the test, as the swatch of fabric will otherwise not be subjected to the same wear and tear as the garment itself.

Was 7.1.2, now 7.2.2 Exemptions

• Additional rule added so numbering applied

Was

These materials only need to be tested at the marshal's discretion.

Now

These materials only need to be tested at the marshal's discretion if newly purchased. Ballistic nylon and commercial fencing clothing rated to at least 550 Newtons must be tested every two years, as they can degrade with use.

8 Authorisation procedures

• Practical test or combat test updated to practical combat test throughout for consistency

9.2.5 Changes to the rules

Insert new rule

Where a proposed rule is less restrictive than Society level rules, a variation must be must be sought from the Society Fencing Marshal and SCA Inc Board of Directors.

Functional change

None - documenting existing requirements

Reason

Not documented previously

For notes section

Not required

9.4.3 Experimenting with the rules

Was

The Kingdom Fencing Marshal can approve an experimental program, subject to the agreement of the Kingdom Earl Marshal and the Society Marshal.

Now

As experiments may create liability issues, the Kingdom Fencing Marshal can only approve an experimental program with the agreement of:

• the Kingdom Earl Marshal; and
• the Society Fencing Marshal; and
• the Committee of SCA New Zealand Inc and Board of SCA Ltd Australia, and their insurers.

Functional change

Clarifies who needs to be involved in the experimental process and why

Reason

Board and Committee hold liability for our activities, and our insurers need full disclosure of our activities. This was not previously articulated in the rules.

For notes section

June 2023 - Experiments may create liaibility issues, which rest with our Boarrd and Committee, so they need to consent to accept that risk. Our insurance company may not cover us for any activity that we have not provided full disclosure of, so they also need to approve any experiements in the same way that actual rule changes are approved.

Glossary - Resilient padding

Was

Material that compresses under pressure from a thumb but returns to its shape within 3 seconds of the pressure being removed

Now

Any material or combination of materials - equivalent to 6mm of closed cell foam - that absorbs some of the force of a thrust or blow.

Functional change

Glossary updated to use definition within rules

Reason

Conflicting definition

For notes section

June 2023 - Glossary definition for resilient padding updated to reflect wording used in rules.