We are a small group of trained swordsman based out of Northern California. Our main purpose is to provide both a realistic sword art to practice and a means to put it to use. The group was first officially formed in 1993, and at that time was made up of only ten members, which would gather four times a year in competition.

The group has since grown considerable and now has a school to teach the fighting style of the western circle. In its earliest form, our purpose was simple; To have a place where swordfighters of all styles and disciplines could gather and do battle with one another in true combat. Thus providing a means of opportunity for all these trained swordsman to test their skills on open field battle. This is a chance that most schools and groups either frown upon or limit heavily.

The Western circle also has its own art of swordsmanship, which is made up of 7 levels of training. The levels are difficult and rewarding. They inspire discipline and respect, but their true goal is to create a fierce and honorable trained swordsman. Initially a swordsman trains and spars with solid wood training swords, or 'boken'. Once a swordsman reaches level 4 he is given the right to train for live steel combat, and after he completes said training he is then tested by a council of 3 Kaidens (Teachers). Upon passing they enter a smaller group of the western circle that works with steel as well as wood. These swordsmen then both compete and do choreographed demonstrations for various fairs through out California. They may then also petition for the right to teach.

Currently our school is run through open-air outdoor dojos with the main class in Half Moon Bay, CA area.

Gad Expert swordsman to the Western Circle of Swordfighters