“Huscarl” or “Huskarl” style combat was developed to be the most historical target system. Since it’s impossible to safely recreate combat styles that include well documented historical techniques (such as thrusts to the face) with only historical clothing and body armor, Huscarl uses modern protection. While this style is the most historically accurate in terms of target zones, it cannot be done as a reenactment show since modern HEMA masks are worn.

This style is characterized by combatants using modern head, face and neck protection and target zones that allow for the most realistic style of fighting. It also has a lower level of strike intensity than Eastern style due to the absence of heavier body armor. This style focuses more on technique than spectacle. In addition, non-lethal percussive force can be used such as kicks, shield pressing, and strikes with the but end of pole weapons.

“Huscarl” is the Scandinavian form of the term House-Karl, a warrior of the Anglo-Saxon and Viking ages. These paid warriors, often bodyguards to nobles, were elite soldiers and could afford the most complete forms of body armor. Since this system utilizes the most comprehensive modern gear, it has received this nickname. This style has spread globally, and many chapters of various groups around the world practice it. Therefore, we are able to visit groups abroad and fight under the same regulations.

In the graphic below, one can compare the target zones across all three fighting systems we practice, both for cutting edge weapons and thrusting weapons.