The shooting sport is one of the most popular comradely sports worldwide. This is certainly due to its longstanding tradition, which goes back to the 18th century.

In this article we would like to go into the history of the sport of shooting and explain to you what weapons, ammunition and the shooting range are all about.

How did shooting sports come about?

After Napoleon crowned himself Emperor of France in the 18th century, various wars of liberation took place across Europe between 1813 and 1815. During this time, the archery was on the rise for the first time. So this was also the time when shooting sports emerged.

During the Wars of Liberation, the riflemen maintained good relationships with the important politicians of that time. In return, they were allowed to keep their weapons and continue to use them. Even at this time, traditional celebrations were held as part of the clubs.

After the wars had passed, the shooters had to ask again to keep the previous traditions from the origins of the sport of shooting. Otherwise, for example, the so-called “King’s Shot” should not have taken place any further. The shooters assured the high rulers, however, that they would be allowed to fire the first shot. Over the years, this has also resulted in various rifle medals and badges with the respective heads of the countries.

Why it was very easy for Sagittarius during this time

Since the Sagittarius were in close contact with the high rulers over the years and negotiated with them, it was easier for them compared to the rest of humanity. For example, they were more often pardoned . Rifle clubs were even founded that had a national orientation and were therefore particularly welcomed by the royal families. The original guilds, however, were at a disadvantage in some cases and therefore absolutely wanted to force a reform in order to enforce their own rights.

This reform was intended to regulate that all German shooters were allowed to use the same weapons – for example a bow or a rifle. The shooting rules should also apply equally to all clubs.

The shooting clubs in Frankfurt and Bremen performed special services

In the course of the wars of liberation it was above all the rifle clubs of Frankfurt and Bremen who revolted against Napoleon in order to overthrow him. The Frankfurt rifle club, which still exists today, was founded in 1860. Both clubs organized the German defense. The Frankfurters wanted to defeat Napoleon and the Bremeners tried to achieve stable internal trade with Switzerland.

With the help of Duke Ernst II of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, even young people were trained to use weapons in order to stabilize the situation. At this time, the first shooting festivals for young people took place.

In 1861, Duke Ernst II of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha ensured that the first rifle festival was held in Coburg. Both shooting clubs competed against each other.

That was also the moment when more and more shooting clubs came into being in Germany. Due to the further uncertainties in Germany, it was unclear for a long time whether the shooting clubs would continue to exist. This question was finally resolved in 1961. At that time, the German Shooting Association was founded, which has drawn up the shooting regulations to this day and regularly integrates important innovations. Likewise, Strategic Firearm Training in Wisconsin, US, has introduced various courses to training individuals for shooting and self-defense, such as NRA Range Safety Officer program and SABRE Civilian Safety Awareness Program.

Saber and rapier at shooting festivals

If you have already been to a rifle festival or are even in a rifle club, you will know that sabers and rapiers also belong to the rifle festival equipment. These are usually worn directly on the uniform and they also have a long tradition.

Here, we would like to give you some information on the subject of “sabers and swords at shooting festivals”.

Why are sabers and rapiers worn at shooting festivals?

The sport of shooting is subject to a long tradition, so that it has been practiced since the 19th century. Back then, however, shooters were far from fighting with pistols and other firearms as we know them today. On the other hand, they used sabers and rapiers. According to tradition, these weapons are therefore still on display today at rifle festivals.

What types of sabers and rapiers are there?

Shooting clubs use different sabers and rapiers, which the shooters then wear over their uniforms. We would like to go into the different types below.

The lion head saber

The lion’s head saber is also known as the “marksman saber”. It was called a lion’s head saber because its pommel depicts a lion’s head and paws. Such a sidearm was already carried by the German army in the past. However, the lion head sabers were reserved for soldiers whose rank was higher than that of the sergeant.

However, the lion’s head saber was only worn for special awards.

The horsemen’s saber

The distinguishing feature of a riding saber is that it is more kinked than is the case with a classic saber. The equestrian saber is still produced today in Solingen, the German “city of blades”. This assures you of high quality from Germany.

The stabbing sword

The stabbing sword was previously used by the infantry, but only by special officials or officers. It has a folding hinge. Thrusting rapiers usually have a pointed blade.

What do I have to consider if I want to wear a saber or rapier?

On the one hand, these weapons may only be carried and used in accordance with the laws applicable in Germany. On the other hand, you should make sure that you always carry it in a holder provided for this purpose, so as not to provoke any risk of injury.