Description
HEMA DECK is a unique deck of cards inspired by Historical European Martial Arts. Each card presents techniques and stances drawn from historical fencing sources, illustrated in a clear and accessible way. Designed to help beginners and instructors alike, the deck introduces essential fundamentals for four core HEMA disciplines:
• Longsword (Hearts)
• Rapier (Spades)
• Sabre (Diamonds)
• Sword & Buckler (Clubs)
Beyond its educational purpose, the HEMA DECK is also a stylish promotional item for the HEMA community. It makes a perfect prize or gift at tournaments, workshops, or training camps and serves as a great conversation starter when introducing newcomers to the art of historical fencing.
The illustrations are inspired by the fencing treatises of Paulus Hector Mair, incorporating both original historical elements and newly created artwork. This blend pays homage to tradition while reflecting the diversity and spirit of today’s HEMA community.
In the Hearts (Longsword) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as:
Oberhau, Ochs, Pflug, Alber, Vom Tag, Zwerchhau, Krumb, Thrust from Pflug, Winding, Longsword Anatomy, Example of a Type XIX Longsword, Kriegsmesser, Zweihänder Type XIII.
In the Spades (Rapier) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as: Prima, Seconda, Terza, Quarta, Affondo, Finta, Cavazione, Mandritto and Riverso, Passata Sotto, Rapier Parts, Spain Rapier & Dagger, Italy Spain Rapier & Dagger, Swept Hilt Rapier.
In the Diamonds (Sabre) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as:
Basic Stance High and Low, Basic Guard, Lunge & Cut, Swinging Cut, Cut from the Elbow, Thrust, Hand Cut, Dodge, Saber Parts, Cavalry Saber, Polish-Hungarian Saber, Sabre Cut.
In the Clubs (Sword and Buckler) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as:
Custodia: prima, secunda, tertia, quarta, quinta, sexta, septima (high and low), Buckler Takedown, Counterbind, Sword Types, Falchion, Arming Sword, English Backsword.
The HEMA DECK follows the French-suited poker format, measuring 63 × 88 mm, and consists of 55 cards, including 3 jokers, packaged in a dedicated tuck box.
The set includes a 48-page booklet measuring 88 × 115 mm, featuring detailed descriptions of the fencing positions illustrated on the cards.
Everything is housed in a premium two-piece box (95 × 130 mm) with spot-UV varnish,
giving the product a refined and collectible presentation.
HEMA DECK is a project created by Maks, a young HEMA enthusiast and competitive fencer. The deck was made possible thanks to the support of the HEMA community on Kickstarter, as well as the involvement of experienced coaches and active HEMA fighters.
