HEMA Gear buying guide for Tasmanian Academy of Swordsmanship members
Here's the Tasmania focused guide on what kit to buy, in what order. Remember to ask during class before making a purchase - we have all gone through it before! Take a look at the T.A.S equipment standards for more info.
Level 1 - Your first lesson:
- A pair of Rigger Gloves from Bunnings. Leather gardening gloves are also acceptable.
- Optional but recommended A cricket box.
- A thick jacket or jumper that isn't too precious.
- A drink bottle. It's thirsty work.
We will loan you a fencing mask and a sword (or sword like object).
Avoid big welding gloves like these as they are too chunky to properly fit into a basket hilt.
Level 2 - Your first HEMA gear purchase:
- A cricket box is now required.
- A Fencing Mask with removable inlay | alternate option. Remember to select the appropriate size (measure twice buy once!)
- A synthetic basket hilt - Stephen usually has these for sale during class. You can get one yourself from https://www.adelaideswordacademy.com/black-armoury-oz.html
1 x Guard-Basket (Rawlings)
1 x Blade-Short (Rawlings)
1 x Grip-Short (Rawlings)
1 x Pommel-Ball (Rawlings)
Level 3 - You're enjoying T.A.S classes and want to start bouting with the seniors.
You've saved up about $750 AUD and are ready to commit to a full kit.
Recommended vendor: https://www.supfen.com
This kit is very good value - it's around $1200 to buy these pieces individually (as of 4/2026)
- Purchase the Full HEMA Kit.
- Optional: request the adjustments outlined in this post.
Reminder: Measure twice! Measure 3 times actually! Getting your measurements wrong will result in sad feelings and a distinct lack of bouting.
Superior Fencing are based in Pakistan. They make good equipment that is affordable, but it is common for delivery to take over 6 months, and for communication to be lacking.
- A Steel Gorget (check the sizing before ordering. The Sup Fen kit does come with a gorget, but it doesn't fit well without some modification.).
Alternative vendor: https://www.adelaideswordacademy.com/black-armoury-oz.html
- Leather/Fabric mask overlay SUP FENCE
- Combat Knickers - 350N SUP FENCE
- Padded Fencing Gloves SUP FENCE
- Full Knee and Shin guards SUP FENCE
- Beginner Jacket - 350N DOHEMA
- A Steel Gorget.
Keep in mind these are all "in stock" items and so won't be made to measure. You will need to carefully check the measurements before ordering. You can contact Adelaide Sword Academy directly on Facebook.
Also note that they don't have the arm guards from the sup fen kit so you will need to choose an alternative - here's one option
Level 4 - You have your kit, and your bouts are safe, fun, and competent. You've spoken to your Provost and they agree - you're ready to fence with a Steel Sword.
Recommended vendor: https://armourclass.co.uk
- Email them directly at iain@armourclass.co.uk.
- Specifically ask for the "Stoccata Blade", and say that you're from the Tasmanian Academy of Swordsmanship.
- The Dragoon (Order code SC14) hilt is the cheapest option and many in our class use it (including me!).
- Speak to your Provost about how to determine your "perfect length" and ask for your blade to be that long.
Be patient. Iain's work is very high quality, but it takes on average over 6 months from ordering to receiving your sword.
Alternate vendor: Tim Harris If you choose to purchase from Tim Harris instead, the wait time is a bit shorter (usually) but the cost is a bit higher.
- Message Tim on Facebook.
- State that you are from the Tasmanian Academy of Swordsmanship and need a sword for HEMA bouting.
- Ask for a Basket Hilt Broadsword and state your preferred blade length.
Tim is usually happy to make modifications / customisations for an additional fee.
Other shops in Australia that I haven't personally used: https://historicalfencing.com.au/shop/