Scottish baskethilted broadsword: claidheamh-leathann in Gaelic
A broadsword which is often paired with dirk or targe, was a terrifying sight on the Scottish Highlands. Carried alone, it was a favorite among pirates in the age of exploration. If sharp only on one side, we call it a backsword (claidheamh-cuil).
“Command your temper and you will do much better, than if you give way to your passion; if you do command it and are engaged with a person who can not, you will have very much the advantage of him.”
– Donald McBane, 1728
Steelbound has developed an entirely unique curriculum for the Scottish baskethilt, based on the 18th century teachings of Roworth, Angelo (both of them), McBane & MacGregor.
“The left shoulder must be thrown back; the body kept as much in a line as possible, to expose no more of it than necessary to your supposed antagonist.”
– Charles Roworth, 1798
Steelbound is the first and thus far only H.E.M.A. organization in the Netherlands to teach broadsword as a primary discipline and thus holds a unique position in the H.E.M.A. community.
“For in practicing the art of defense, it is not only the head, legs and arms that is employed, but the whole organs and faculties of the foul are put in motion at one and the same time;”
– Archibald MacGregor, 1791
Broadsword lessons are held on Monday evenings at the Sportcampus Zuiderpark throughout the academic year. In order to join the lessons, one must have completed an Introduction Course and be enrolled as a Steelbound student. Tuition costs are 28 euros a month, or 45 euros a month if following both broadsword and longsword lessons.
We celebrate our broadsword discipline at Steelbound in the original Gaelic, Stàilinn-ceangailte!