ABOUT CDS
Crucible Dueling Society is a Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) organization located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. We are dedicated to the reconstruction and practice of historical rapier techniques. We combine scholarly research and hand-on martial arts training, with a particular focus on the Italian fencing traditions of the 16th-17th century.
Our primary sources are the writings of reknowned fencing masters, including Ridalfo Capoferro, Nicoletto Giganti, Salvator Fabris, and Antonio Manciolino. By engaging in experimentation and collaborating with amicable individuals, we explore and apply historical techniques through sparring and occasional competition.
Crucible Dueling Society is adamant about building and preserving a community that is inclusive, welcoming and safe for all people interested in Italian fencing. Please read our Code of Conduct.
OUR INSTRUCTORS
Michael Swaisgood
Mike Swaisgood has been doing HEMA since 2014 and is well versed in Italian rapier, dagger, side sword and small sword. Mike is Crucible Dueling Society's lead instructor.
Michael Kvorjak
Michael Kvorjak has been fencing since 2023 with a focus on Italian rapier, dagger, and small sword. He has read far too many fencing manuals from far too many authors and is Crucible Dueling Society's Historian and co-instructor!
Trish Allison
Trish Allison has been fencing since 2022. She primarily focuses on Italian rapier but also dabbles in dagger and small sword. She is Crucible Dueling Society's Administrator and Intro Instructor.