Sword and buckler, be it Bolognese or earlier, is very dynamic way of fighting, and not because the buckler can protect just your hands (that's a poor use of it), but because, if used correctly, it can actually actively protect a whole side of your body. If I'm wrong about any of this lmk also thank you for answering :)
If anything, the sentiment seems to be that sword and buckler is actually a pretty bad weapon choice and that longswords or rapiers are 'better'. However, I don't really see it ever talked about as a good weapon. If I could pick my 'weapon style' (idk what it'd be called) I'd pick arming sword and shield as my main style. When I think of 'Swordsman' The image of a man with an arming sword and a shield pops into my head (I imagine that's the same for most people). I ask this because my favorite sword is the arming sword. How effective is the sword and buckler as a weapon choice compared to other weapons?
I've decided I need to change that so part of my new years resolution is to buy some equipment and join a HEMA group. I've been super into HEMA for the past 2 years but sadly, I've never gotten around to buying equipment or joining a club to train/practice/spar.
