Tips for writing fight scenes and weapons accurately

When it comes to writing, authenticity is key, even amid fantastical settings or improbable events. This holds true for fight scenes, where readers can quickly detect inaccuracies or inconsistencies. To keep your readers engrossed and to give your story the credibility it deserves, you need to understand the mechanics, emotions, and nuances of combat.

Do your research

You might not be an expert in martial arts or medieval warfare, but thanks to the internet, you have a trove of resources at your fingertips.

• Watch demonstrations on YouTube.
• Read books on the topic.
• Talk to experts or join relevant forums.

Understand your weapons

If a character is wielding a weapon, be sure you know how it operates.

• What's the weight of a broadsword?
• How does the recoil feel on a .45 pistol?
• What kind of damage would an arrow inflict versus a bullet?

Be aware of the environment

Your setting can greatly influence a fight. A fight in a cramped alley has a different dynamic than one in an open field. Consider the terrain, the weather, and any potential obstacles or tools.

Don't forget the human element

Physical combat is as much an emotional endeavour as a physical one. Fear, rage, desperation – these feelings can influence a character's actions as much as their combat training can.

Keep it varied

While focusing on the 'cool' moves is tempting, remember that real fights – especially prolonged ones – have moments of pause, strategy, and even retreat.

6. Know when to be detailed and when to pull back

While providing detail to ground the scene in reality is important, you don't want to overwhelm the reader with every minute movement. Sometimes, less is more, and a broader stroke can be more effective than a play-by-play description.

Reflect on the aftermath

Fights are messy. They result in injuries, psychological trauma, and often, consequences for the story and character development. Don't just end a fight scene and move on; show the repercussions, both immediate and long-term.

Reference other mediums, but be cautious

Movies and TV shows can be great for visualising a fight scene, but remember that they often favour style over realism. Use them as a springboard but cross-reference with more reliable sources.

Further reading:

• How to write a great sword fight – Dive into the world of parries, thrusts, and dramatic duels.
• How to write a great fistfight – Explore the raw emotion and technique behind hand-to-hand combat.
• How to write a great gunfight – Understand the dynamics, tactics, and tension of a firefight.
• How to write a massive battle scene – Grasp the complexities of orchestrating a large-scale combat scenario.

Writing authentic and gripping fight scenes requires a balance of research, an understanding of the human condition, and a good dose of creativity. By considering the above tips and diving deeper into specific types of fight scenes, you can craft sequences that will have your readers on the edge of their seats.