Berlin Messer Weekend BMW
Berlin Messer Weekend 2025 – A Weekend Dedicated to the Long Messer

The Berlin Messer Weekend 2025 (BMW 2025) was the first major event in Berlin dedicated exclusively to the Long Messer. In the European HEMA scene (Historical European Martial Arts), this weapon holds a special historical significance — and over the past five years, the international community of HEMA fencers has grown noticeably. With the Berlin Messer Weekend, a clear message was sent: the Long Messer deserves its own specialized event.
Focus on the Messer
The goal of the weekend was to bring together enough Messer fencers from this still relatively small niche to make an event possible that focused exclusively on this weapon type. All parts of the program — from the tournament to the workshops — were held in English to ensure the best possible experience for international participants.

The Tournament
Saturday was all about the full-contact Messer tournament. It was held in two pool rounds followed by skill divisions. This format guaranteed each participant a total of eight bouts and ensured that both experienced fighters and newcomers were challenged appropriately — without being overwhelmed.
Winners of the gold, silver, and bronze medals also received attractive prizes sponsored by our partners.

Die Workshops
Sunday was dedicated entirely to workshops. Four internationally renowned instructors explored different core aspects of Messer fencing:
- Oskar ter Mors (Wapenkunst Academie Rijswijk)
- Ulrik Neumann (Die Freifechter)
- Maximilian “Ohmi” Ohmacht (INDES)
- Falko Fritz (Hammaborg)
The topics ranged from technical details and tactics to didactic approaches for effective Messer training.

Open Sparring and Exchange
Alongside the tournament and workshops, the Berlin Messer Weekend offered plenty of space for open floor sparring, informal exchange, and spontaneous bouts. This highlighted the event’s social and community-building character — a key aspect of the international HEMA scene.
Organization and Online Presence
The event was organized by Twerchhau. For more insights and impressions, check out their Instagram channel @twerchhau and the YouTube channel Bjarne HEMA, where videos from the event have been uploaded.






