This is going to be a long one, so I will get straight to the point. Herewith the Experimental Schlager Rules for Atlantian Rapier:

Schlager will require a separate authorization conducted by designated schlager marshalls (of which there are now two: myself and Lord Giacomo Vicente di Firenze. Others will be added as time/training/ interest allow. Fighters must have been authorized in rapier or armored combat for at least one year before attempting to authorize with schlager. Schlagers may be used in tourney rounds between two schlager-authorized fighters provided they and the Rapier Marshall in Charge agree, but will not be used against epees or foils.

Schlager blades will be commerically manufactured blades designated by the manufacturer as practice schlager blades. The condition of the blade will be the same as for foils and epees, with the exception that a single gradual curve is not required in a schlager. Schlagers may have open guards (i.e. swept hilt style). Blades will be tipped with a rubber blunt, with a layer of rubber on the end of the blade itself, on top of which there shall be a metal disc (preferrably a kingdom coin, but this is a matter of taste). Bird/Rabbit blunts sold for archery are acceptable on an experimental basis. The tip shall remain on the blade when tugged stoutly, and the blade must bounce when dropped tip downward on a hard surface, or the blade shall not pass inspection.

Armor for schlager will consist of standard Atlantian rapier armor plus a rigid (see Society armor standards) gorget that protects the jugular notch and the sternoclavicular joint (ask your chirurgeon if you don't know where these are). As always, individuals may choose to wear more protection if they wish, provided that it does not interfere with blow calling.

Blow calling with schlagers shall remain the same as with foils and epees -- a valid thrust requires only positive force in line with the blade; a valid draw requires positive force and a draw of 1/3 of the blade. The Deputy Society Marshall for Rapier, Don Tivar Moondragon, tells me that the Corporate Rapier Rules will not allow for wrist generated cuts. I will be discussing the issue with Don Tivar, and I hope to persuade him to allow these in the future.

Authorizations for schlager will be conducted according to very rigid standards, as will tournament rounds including schlager combat. This is a very different form for us, one that we are not accustomed to. It is very likely that we will be seeing a mix of fighters coming in from both the armored combat arena and from rapier, and it will take time before common standards are reached, so we all must be patient. Even with that in mind, let it be known that the rapier marshallate has a zero tolerance policy with regard to unsafe conduct with these blades. Any fighter on the field who conducts him/herself in an unsafe manner will be removed from the field immediately; a second instance will result in the suspension of the fighter's schlager authorization for a period of at least three months.

I strongly recommend that those of you who are interested in schlager find someone who has experience with schlager to practice with, and that you practice and study diligently. Lord Giacomo and I will be conducting schlager classes (for fighers and marshalls) throughout the kingdom over the next few months, starting with the University of Atlantia in June. While I do not want to make it seem as if schlagers are dangerous (which they are not) I do want to ensure that this new form makes a smooth and safe entry into our game in this kingdom.

These rules will remain in effect for six months, beginning on June 1, 1996 (subject, of course, to the pleasure of the Crown and the approval of the Earl Marshall). It is very likely that they will be modified during that time period, so watch this space for updates.

Any and all questions regarding schlager and these rules should be directed to me, electronically, telephonically or in writing.

In Service,

Alan