Detecting collision without getHitTest()

I suddenly got inspiration to create a new game out of nowhere after playing “Castle Crashing the Beard”, an extremely entertaining game. The game basically has the player taking control of the character and fighting enemies one at a time, like a boss rush of sorts. Not the most original idea, but it appeals to me because I already have the basic movement engine down from a previous failed project. The character will wield a melee weapon, which is where I feel uncomfortable. The only way I know how to detect collision is getHitTest(), which I don’t really like, and was wondering if there was any other way to detect collision.

Thanks in advance.