SCA Armored Combat was developed in California in the 1960s and arrived in Finland in the early 1990s.
In Finland, the sport is also commonly known as rattan fighting or SCA Fighting. The term “rattan” refers to the material used for the weapons. It allows fighters to use full-contact strikes while keeping the risk of injury lower than it would be with steel swords.
Combat activities in Finland are part of the Finnish Medieval Society (Suomen keskiaikaseura), with the Society for Creative Anachronism serving as the international umbrella organization.
The Finnish Medieval Society also includes other martial activities, such as archery and rapier fencing, as well as many other medieval hobbies and events.
As a fighter, you can take part in these activities as well, or focus only on armored combat. At events, you can participate in tournaments and wars, while regular practices give you the chance to train your skills, have fun, and enjoy a great sport together with other enthusiasts.
How to start?
Come and try it out at practice! You can try the hobby for free, and our more experienced members will be happy to help you get started and guide you with acquiring equipment.
Several of our members have moved to Finland from other countries, and the terminology used in the sport is in English, so it is easy to join even if you do not speak any Finnish. And what better way to learn the language than through a hobby?
Get in touch, and we’ll help you find your nearest practice: marski@aarnimetsa.org
You are SCA fighter and visiting finland? Want to fight and train with us?
Visiting SCA fighters are warmly welcome to join our practices!
If you are visiting Finland from abroad for work, holiday, or an event, you are welcome to come train and fight with us. Get in touch before your visit, and we will gladly help you find your way to the nearest practice.
If you do not have your own gear with you, we may also be able to lend you equipment for the practice.
Please contact our barony’s marshal: marski@aarnimetsa.org