HEMA MANUAL BOOK a comprehensive guide to the modern practice of HEMA. From historical treatises to the tournament floor — all in one book. HEMA MANUAL is designed for anyone involved in Historical European Martial Arts — from beginners building solid foundations, to experienced practitioners seeking structure, context, and a broader perspective on modern HEMA. It brings together historical sources, protective equipment principles, weapon categories, and the realities of contemporary training and competition.
The goal of HEMA MANUAL is not to teach fencing, but to serve as an orientation guide — a compendium of modern HEMA culture. It is intended to help readers understand the foundations of HEMA, its equipment, its community, and the practical realities of training. HEMA MANUAL was created to support and promote Historical European Martial Arts as a living culture. One grounded in study, movement, and responsibility — not confined to competition, reenactment, or hobbyist labels. It is a living culture that connects practitioners and communities around the world.
Entering the world of HEMA, most people encounter the same experience sooner or later: an overwhelming number of questions, unfamiliar terms, and seemingly contradictory information. What exactly is HEMA? Why do different schools train differently? How should historical sources be approached? What truly matters at the beginning — and what only becomes important later? If you meet experienced and supportive people, they can help guide you through this maze. But sometimes, you have to navigate it on your own — piecing together knowledge from books, online sources, training sessions, and conversations into something coherent.
The inspiration for HEMA MANUAL came directly from my own early experiences. At the time, there was no single place that calmly and clearly explained what HEMA is, how its equipment and organisational structures work, and why context plays such a crucial role. The information existed — in historical treatises, online resources, and discussions with more experienced practitioners — but it was scattered and often difficult to connect into a larger picture.
The second impulse behind this book was the success of the HEMA DECK project, which was successfully funded on Kickstarter thanks to the support of the HEMA community. That project demonstrated a genuine interest in thoughtful, well-designed educational tools within the HEMA world.
HEMA MANUAL grows directly out of that experience and represents its natural continuation. It is an attempt to gather knowledge, experience, and perspective into an orientation guide — a book meant to help readers navigate the world of HEMA more consciously, regardless of where they are on their personal journey.
HEMA MANUAL will be produced in a B5 format (170 × 240 mm), allowing for clear layouts and detailed illustrations. The book will contain over 150 pages and will be printed in a durable, thread-sewn hardcover binding, designed for regular reference and long-term use. The interior will be printed in full color on 115 g paper, ensuring clarity and visual consistency throughout the book. The cover will feature an anti-scratch laminate with selective spot varnish, enhancing both durability and tactile quality. A red ribbon bookmark and red headband will be included as part of the binding. The book will include over 100 illustrations, combining historical material with original graphics created specifically for this project.
An introduction to Historical European Martial Arts as a contemporary historical practice. This chapter explains what HEMA is — and what it is not — outlining the differences between HEMA, historical reenactment, and sport fencing, as well as the role of safety and historical sources in modern practice.
A concise overview of the development of European bladed weapons, with dedicated sections on the sword, rapier, and sabre. This chapter provides historical and cultural context for the weapon systems used in modern HEMA.
An in-depth look at historical fencing treatises as the foundation of HEMA. The chapter discusses major traditions, historical masters, regional and chronological differences, and the methodological challenges of interpreting sources — from the battlefield to the fencing hall.
A practical discussion of training tools used in HEMA, including non-steel and steel weapon simulators. This chapter focuses on responsibility, context, and appropriate tool selection across different weapon disciplines.
A comprehensive guide to modern HEMA protective equipment. Topics include protection architecture, Newton ratings and safety standards, masks, jackets, gloves, groin and joint protection — explaining how modern safety systems actually work.
A realistic and experience-based approach to building HEMA equipment over time. This chapter addresses common beginner mistakes, club equipment, staged purchasing strategies, and how to read equipment specifications and descriptions critically.
An overview of the social and organisational structure of HEMA. Covers where to look for knowledge, how to find a club, how competitions function, and what tournaments mean for modern HEMA practitioners.
Descriptions of fundamental fencing stances from four core HEMA disciplines: longsword, sabre, rapier, and sword & buckler. These sections are supported by illustrations drawn from historical treatises and artwork inspired by their visual language.
If you believe that HEMA deserves structured, thoughtful resources, consider supporting this project on Kickstarter.
Your support will help bring HEMA MANUAL to print and contribute to the development of high-quality educational materials for the community.
Every pledge helps turn this project into a finished book.
Stark Creations Maks Starkowski, Poland 64-300 Jastrzębsko Stare 28C