HEMA DECK is a unique deck of cards inspired by Historical European Martial Arts. Each card presents techniques and stances drawn from historical fencing sources, illustrated in a clear and accessible way. Designed to help beginners and instructors alike, the deck introduces essential fundamentals for four core HEMA disciplines: Longsword (Hearts), Rapier (Spades), Sabre (Diamonds), Sword & Buckler (Clubs). Beyond its educational purpose, the HEMA DECK is also a stylish promotional item for the HEMA community. It makes a perfect prize or gift at tournaments, workshops, or training camps and serves as a great conversation starter when introducing newcomers to the art of historical fencing. The illustrations are inspired by the fencing treatises of Paulus Hector Mair, incorporating both original historical elements and newly created artwork. This blend pays homage to tradition while reflecting the diversity and spirit of today’s HEMA community.
From a young age, I have been fascinated by the history of weaponry and ancient martial arts. I spent my childhood exploring illustrated encyclopedias, visiting museums, and crafting wooden sword replicas with my dad. When I turned 16, I started training in fencing, and later I discovered HEMA – Historical European Martial Arts.
Michał Starzewski, Wojciech Zabłocki, and Józef Żytny books became a source of inspiration for me. I sought out original treatises from the 15th and 16th centuries, and the website wiktenauer.com turned out to be a treasure trove of knowledge. Through it, I became familiar with the works of masters such as Paulus Hector Mair, Johannes Liechtenauer, Ridolfo Capo Ferro da Cagli, Salvator Fabris, Joachim Meyer, and Ewart Oakeshott.
It was then that the idea for creating HEMA DECK – an educational deck of playing cards that combines a passion for history and martial arts – was born. I want young HEMA enthusiasts and anyone interested to draw inspiration and knowledge from these cards. While it’s impossible to convey all the knowledge on just 56 cards, they can serve as an excellent introduction and inspiration for further training.
HEMA DECK is a project created by Maks, a young HEMA enthusiast and competitive fencer. The deck was made possible thanks to the support of the HEMA community on Kickstarter, as well as the involvement of experienced coaches and active HEMA fighters.
HEMA DECK was successfully funded on Kickstarter thanks to the incredible support of the global HEMA community. This project would not have been possible without the trust, feedback, and enthusiasm of historical fencing practitioners, coaches, and enthusiasts from around the world. Their support helped turn HEMA DECK from an idea into a high-quality educational and training tool dedicated to Historical European Martial Arts.
The HEMA DECK follows the French-suited poker format, measuring 63 × 88 mm, and consists of 55 cards, including 3 jokers, packaged in a dedicated tuck box. The set includes a 48-page booklet measuring 88 × 115 mm, featuring detailed descriptions of the fencing positions illustrated on the cards. Everything is housed in a premium two-piece box (95 × 130 mm) with spot-UV varnish, giving the product a refined and collectible presentation
In the Hearts (Longsword) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as: Oberhau, Ochs, Pflug, Alber, Vom Tag, Zwerchhau, Krumb, Thrust from Pflug, Winding, Longsword Anatomy, Example of a Type XIX Longsword, Kriegsmesser, Zweihänder Type XIII.
In the Spades (Rapier) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as: Prima, Seconda, Terza, Quarta, Affondo, Finta, Cavazione, Mandritto and Riverso, Passata Sotto, Rapier Parts, Spain Rapier & Dagger, Italy Spain Rapier & Dagger, Swept Hilt Rapier.
In the Diamonds (Sabre) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as: Basic Stance High and Low, Basic Guard, Lunge & Cut, Swinging Cut, Cut from the Elbow, Thrust, Hand Cut, Dodge, Saber Parts, Cavalry Saber, Polish-Hungarian Saber, Sabre Cut.
In the Clubs (Sword and Buckler) suit, you’ll find cards with positions and techniques such as: Custodia: prima, secunda, tertia, quarta, quinta, sexta, septima (high and low), Buckler Takedown, Counterbind, Sword Types, Falchion, Arming Sword, English Backsword.
A booklet describing the fencing positions and techniques illustrated on the cards will be included in the HEMA DECK box.
HEMA, or Historical European Martial Arts, is a dynamic sport that combines a passion for history, martial arts, and competition. Practicing HEMA allows you to explore and apply ancient combat techniques that were used by European warriors throughout the centuries.
If you are interested in purchasing larger quantities or collaborating, please contact us.
We want to extend our deepest gratitude to every single patron who has supported us and believed in HEMA Deck from the start. You’re not just backers – you’re the heartbeat of this project, turning our dream of celebrating HEMA’s rich traditions into reality. Your trust fuels our passion, and we’re beyond excited to bring this deck to life with you by our side. Thank you for being part of this journey!
Stark Creations Maks Starkowski, Poland 64-300 Jastrzębsko Stare 28C