[Sudetenland]

VEry much a story of the march of civilization. There was a time when knowledge of and ability to use the English long bow meant victory in war. Bow men practiced everyday of their lives and were capable of accurately firing 12 "cloth yard" shafts per minute at a range of 200 yards using the typical 150 lb bow. They developed bone spurs on their shoulders to accommodate the increased muscle mass required for the discipline . . . then came the cross bow which required no particular skill to aim and fire. Knowledge of the making and use of the long bow all but disappeared . . . then came the gun and both disciplines disappeared from the battle field.

Same for knowledge of how to use a long sword, the rapier and "maine gauche" and pretty much all other martial disciplines requiring extensive daily practice.

Unless they make movies about a martial art today or it is translated into a sport and it becomes trendy, it will disappear. Tradition and culture have been replaced largely today by fad and ease.

[jagusafr]

I’m actually searching for a serious cane-centered martial arts discipline. Have reviewed “Cane Fu” from Canemasters (for people more generally impaired than I am)and the British guy’s stuff from the turn of last century (still evaluating), but I think you’re right: any discipline of this sort must be practiced and honed on a daily basis, and “these kids today” don’t have the patience, discipline or farsightedness to become truly competent.

Hope I will.

Colonel, USAFR