Scottish Broadsword and Great Sword - A Double-Feature Sword Workshop

Why Attend?

Hosted by Ludus Ferocia at the spacious Universal Combat Center in Norfolk, this immersive workshop brings together two respected HEMA instructors for two different disciplines! With over four hours and four unique modules, participants will gain historical insight, practical skills, and competitive applications for broadsword, targe, and montante greatsword.

Most training weapons will be provided, including shields and Montantes available for rotation. Please bring your own HEMA protective gear (mask, gloves, jacket).

Workshop Timeline & Modules

Module 1: Introduction to the Broadsword & Targe

Instructor: Jonathan MacKenzie Gordon
Duration: 1 Hour

• Learn foundational use of broadsword with Highland off-hand weapons (Targe, Dirk, Alehouse Dagger)

• Explore battlefield and dueling applications from Page & McBane

• Understand the historical role of Highland warriors in European warfare

• Gear Needed: Broadsword/saber trainer, fencing mask, light jacket, gloves (1 heavy, 1 light), shield or substitute (targe, buckler, rotella)

Module 2: Ferdinand Broadsword Masterclass

Instructor: Jonathan MacKenzie Gordon
Duration: 1 Hour

• Study advanced techniques from Ferdinand’s 1788 Sword’s-Man manual

• Train in feints, footwork, and angle creation

• Apply lessons to competitive and tactical scenarios

• Gear Needed: Broadsword, saber, or spadroon trainer; mask; gloves

• Recommended: Familiarity with basic broadsword/saber techniques

Module 3: Introduction to the Montante

Instructor: Christian Büttner
Duration: 1 Hour

• Learn Montante posture, guards, and striking mechanics

• Understand the weapon’s function in battlefield and crowd-control situations

• Build coordination for safe handling of large two-handed swords

• Gear Needed: Montante or 5–5.5 ft staff substitute; fencing mask; gloves; light jacket

Module 4: Montante Masterclass – "Where the Reglas Meet the Road"

Instructor: Christian Büttner
Duration: 1 Hour

• Explore historical reglas (rulesets) from Iberian Montante manuals

• Understand how mechanics influence interpretation and sparring

• Practice controlled simulation drills with safe trainers

• Gear Needed: Montante, staff, or longsword; standard HEMA gear; shared gear rotation available

What to Bring:

• HEMA protective gear: mask, jacket, gloves

• Your own sword, targe, or Montante if available - Loaners will be provided.

• Hydration and note-taking materials

• Readiness to train, move, and learn

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTORS

Jonathan MacKenzie Gordon
Senior Instructor, MacKenzie Broadsword • Vice-President, Cateran Society • Officer, Maryland KDF

Jonathan MacKenzie Gordon is a dedicated researcher, instructor, and competitor in Historical European Martial Arts with a passion for the martial traditions of the Scottish Highlands. Known for his clear instruction and deep historical insight, he brings over 15 years of experience to students of Scottish swordsmanship around the world.

• Training in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) since 2008

• Founder of MacKenzie Broadsword, teaching Scottish Martial Arts virtually and in-person

• Former Senior Instructor of the Highland Broadsword Program at Virginia Academy of Fencing (2012–2021)

• Vice-President and Level III Certified Instructor with the Cateran Society; currently pursuing Level IV

• Specializes in Scottish Broadsword and Smallsword systems (Angelo, Page, Sinclair, Mathewson, etc.)

• Has taught at major events: DC HEMA, Autumnfecht, Brass Frog, and An Cruinneachadh (Canada)

• Medalist in multiple competitions: Longpoint, Clash of Claymores, Brass Frog (Gold in Saber: 2014 & 2024)

• Regularly studies and interprets historical fencing treatises with international training experience

Christian Büttner
Senior Instructor and Officer, Maryland KDF

Christian Büttner combines over two decades of dance experience with his passion for Historical European Martial Arts, creating a unique approach to fencing that emphasizes movement theory, adaptability, and pedagogy. His background informs every class he teaches, making his instruction accessible, dynamic, and inclusive.

• Training in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) for 8 years; instructing for 4

• Officer at Maryland KDF for 3 years

• Over 20 years of dance experience, including 4 years teaching at the university level

• Integrates dance movement theory into HEMA instruction, focusing on fluidity and body mechanics

• Teaches longsword fundamentals, military saber, and montante at MKdF

• Advocates for adaptive teaching methods suited for students of all sizes and abilities

• Active competitor in saber, sidesword, and smallsword; medaled in ARFL, King’s Cup, and PAHEMAOpen

• Guest instructor at events and clubs across the Mid-Atlantic region, including IGX, Autumnfecht, and Dance Fight