Parries
A parry is a choreographed defensive response to an attack line.
In SaberCraft Notation, a parry is written as the target number plus the letter P.
Plain-English version
If an attack is written as 1, the matching parry is written as 1P.
Basic parry notation
A number followed by P is a parry.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
1P |
Parry target 1 |
11P |
Parry target 11 |
3P |
Parry target 3 |
9P |
Parry target 9 |
5P |
Parry target 5 |
7P |
Parry target 7 |
The number tells the reader which target line is being received or answered.
The P tells the reader that the action is a parry, not an attack.
For the full twelve-line parry reference, use the Notation Legend.
Parry versus block
In casual teaching, people may say "block."
In official SaberCraft Standard notation, use parry for the written P response.
| Term | Use |
|---|---|
| Parry | Preferred official notation term |
| Block | Informal teaching word; avoid as the main standard term |
This keeps the notation clear and consistent.
Attack and parry relationship
Beginner notation uses matching attack/parry pairs.
| Attack | Matching parry |
|---|---|
1 |
1P |
11 |
11P |
3 |
3P |
9 |
9P |
5 |
5P |
7 |
7P |
The attack creates the line. The parry answers that line.
Parries in a two-Saberist table
In a SaberCraft Standard table, the parry appears in the step column for the Saberist performing the defensive response.
| Player | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saberist A | 1 | 11 | 3 |
| Saberist B | 1P | 11P | 3P |
Read this vertically:
- Step 1: Saberist A attacks
1; Saberist B parries1P. - Step 2: Saberist A attacks
11; Saberist B parries11P. - Step 3: Saberist A attacks
3; Saberist B parries3P.
Control standard
A SaberCraft Standard parry should be:
- ready
- controlled
- readable
- repeatable
- safe for both Saberists
- matched to the intended attack line
The purpose of the parry is not to win a fight. The purpose is to complete the shared choreographic phrase safely and clearly.
Common beginner mistakes
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Waiting too long to move | Start the parry as part of the shared timing |
| Swatting at the attack | Meet the line with control |
| Overpowering the partner | Reduce force and preserve choreography |
| Parrying the wrong line | Slow down and match the written target |
| Treating the parry like a real fight response | Keep it theatrical, repeatable, and safe |
Parries in CM-A
CM-A uses six matching parries: 1P, 11P, 3P, 9P, 5P, and 7P.
For the full six-step CM-A table, use the CM-A reference page.
Together, these teach the basic defensive response pattern for the six beginner target lines.
Teaching note
When teaching parries, focus on recognition before speed.
A good beginner parry should answer three questions clearly:
- Which attack line is being received?
- Does the parry match the written notation?
- Can both Saberists repeat the exchange safely?
If the answer is no, slow down and rebuild the step.
Parry diagrams
 Parry 1 |
 Parry 11 |
 Parry 3 |
 Parry 9 |
 Parry 5 |
 Parry 7 |