I am just starting out some sword and buckler courses. It has been emphasised, that the bind lets you sense the opponent's attacks and protect against them. Consequently, I have been advised to "bind early".

Here is what I have no clue about. How is the bind achieved? Do both duelists approach with their swords pointed at each other's heads? Or is it a result concurrent strikes? If so, are those strikes aimed at actual targets (head, neck) or are they "defensive" strikes to claim the center?