HOW TO GET STARTED
A step-by-step guide to beginning Buhurt
So you want to fight in armor — now what?
This guide walks you through the most common and recommended path into armored combat, from your first practice to your first armor purchase.
STEP 1: DO NOT BUY ARMOR
You do not need armor to start training.
In fact, buying steel armor or weapons too early — even “good deals” — is one of the most common (and expensive) beginner mistakes. Until you’ve trained consistently with a team for a few months, you won’t yet know:
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What role you’ll fight
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What category you’ll compete under
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What gear actually fits your body and fighting style
The one exception is groin protection (required for fighters of all genders.)
Most clubs provide loaner gear or start new fighters in foam training weapons and controlled drills.
STEP 2: FIND A LOCAL PRACTICE
The best way to start is by training with an existing club. Use our Club Locator map to search for your closest club.
If you don’t see a club near you, join the MC USA Facebook group or Discord server and ask if anyone trains in your area. Fighters often practice under gym names or informal groups before becoming official clubs.
Minimum criteria for a real practice is at least 2 people training at least once per week using foam or steel training gear safely.
If it doesn’t meet these basics, keep looking.
STEP 3: I FOUND A LOCAL PRACTICE — NOW WHAT?
Reach out to the club and ask about attending your first practice. Most teams are happy to help new people get started.
Before you go:
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Confirm what to wear (usually athletic clothes)
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Bring your groin protection
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Ask if they provide loaner gear
While you’re there, learn what events the club attends, ask which league(s) they compete under, and understand what memberships are required to compete.
Most competitive leagues charge annual memberships, typically in the $50–$100 range.
Some clubs also charge monthly dues, depending on how they operate.
STEP 4: TRAIN AND BUDGET INTELLIGENTLY
If you enjoy your first practices and want to continue?
Join the Club
Train consistently and officially join the team if required.
Buy Training Gear First
Your first purchase should usually be the same foam training gear your teammates use and recommend.
Start Saving for Armor
A safe, competitive beginner armor kit typically costs $2,000–$2,500. This is normal, and it’s why rushing into purchases is discouraged.
After ~1 month: Start saving
After ~6 months: Begin planning your first armor purchases (often a gambeson or helmet)
⚠️ Do not buy armor without talking to your teammates first. ⚠️
For more detail, see Buying Armor for Beginners
"There is no local practice"
If there is nowhere you would be able to reasonably drive at least once a month, you will have to start your own practice, which can eventually turn into a chapter/club/gym.
Take a look at this guide to get the ball rolling.