North Armoury Academy
Historical Fencing in the German Longsword Tradition
Join our two-month longsword course exploring the German Kunst des Fechtens (KDF) tradition — the historical martial art of the longsword as practiced by 15th-century fencing masters like Johannes Liechtenauer.
Classes run once per week for two hours in Vaughan, Ontario. This course is perfect for absolute beginners looking to take their first step into HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts), as well as more experienced fencers looking to sharpen their technique and deepen their understanding of German longsword.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable athletic clothing and clean indoor shoes
- Water bottle
- If you already own fencing gear (mask, gloves, jacket, or longsword), please bring it to class
- We provide a limited number of loaner swords and starter gear for beginners, and can advise any gear purchase questions
As part of registration, you'll complete a short intake form to let us know what gear you already have, and your level of skill/experience — this helps us ensure there’s enough equipment available for everyone in class.
Pricing:
Foundations Course - $220 / 8 Classes
Drop-in class $40 (space permitting)
Drop-ins are intended for fencers with prior HEMA experience and their own gear.
New students should join at the start of a course cycle. If you're brand new to longsword, please register for the full Foundations Course. Beginners may only drop in for the first class of a new cycle.
Not sure if a drop-in is right for you? Contact us with any questions — we're happy to help!
Please note: This course is for participants aged 18+.
Meet the instructor:
Mitchell Edward is a passionate longsword fencer with a focus on the foundational principles of the German Lichtenauer tradition. A self-described "Lichtenauer Fundamentalist," Mitchell began his fencing journey in 2019 and quickly immersed himself in the Ontario HEMA scene — training with clubs across Niagara, Grimsby, Hamilton, and Toronto.
The core of his training comes from three years at the Southern Ontario Historical Fencing Association (SOHFA), where he progressed through both the introductory and advanced programs, eventually assisting with coaching and supporting newcomers. Mitchell’s strength lies in his commitment to the modular mechanics and core concepts of the Lichtenauer system, which he brings into every lesson with clarity and care.
Outside of fencing, Mitchell is a trained illustrator and blacksmith, creating intricate steel sculptures of flowers, birds, insects, and more. He views both swordsmanship and metalwork as disciplined, expressive crafts — and strives to bring a sense of artistry, structure, and community into everything he teaches.