During the first half of the 19th century the French school of small-sword fencing seemed to have become ubiquitous. However, in the Italian peninsula varied systems and schools of fencing existed where the art of rapier fencing continued to be taught. Within these systems of Italian fencing hand to hand combat techniques for self-defense and street fighting that included close quarter techniques such as disarms, pommel strikes, along with their counters were taught. In this class the students will learn how to enter into the adversary's measure and apply these close quarter combat methods with the lighter rapier of that time period.

Students must come prepared with jackets, masks, groin protectors for men, breast protection for women and gloves for both hands. Acceptable weapons are Italian foils, Italian dueling swords and light cup-hilt rapiers.