Sword and Board

Overview

Sword and Board is a common expression for using a Sword and a Shield in combination with one another. This fighting style is among the first new combatants learn and is useful in many different situations, especially shield walls. The sword is usually a Class One weapon as they are easier to swing one-handed than a Class Two weapon would be. Shields come in many shapes and sizes, and all have unique advantages and disadvantages when fighting sword and boards.

Advantages:

The largest benefits to Sword and Board are versatility and protection. Most positions on the field can utilize a sword and board combatant as either offense or defense. They make up alot of the lines and can quickly turn the tide of any battle.

Disadvantages:

The Downside to Sword and Board is that the weight of the shield can significantly slow down a combatant. A Flanker who must move quickly from one side of the field to the other will not find the added weight of a tower shield useful. Florentine or the use of a small shield, such as a buckler, can aide flankers.

Variations:

Flail and Shield known as Ball and Wall - A Flail replaces the sword, allowing for a variety of different angle shots.

Mace and Shield - A Mace is useful as they are effective no matter what side hits your opponent; therefore, some people replace the sword with one in order to be more effective on the field.