The Armour Archive

Greetings everyone.
Some time ago I browsed over a discussion here about SILOFLEX. It's been a long time I think. So I appologise if this is a boreing question. What exactly is Siloflex? I've heard that it's a solid plastic rod used to replace ones sword. I've also heard that it's a plastic sprinkler pipe/like tubing that one might replace the "skin" of thier rattan sword with. It's not currently allowed here in Atenveldt so there is a whole bunch of different information floating around. I'd like to settle the arguments. Can anyone help? Also, where can it be obtained most easily?

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Lord Iamys MacMurray
"Rome did not create a great empire by having meetings...
they did it by killing all those who opposed them." ...unknown

The way most kingdoms have it set up, you need to use hollow siloflex (which is used as piping I beleive) with a 1-inch rattan core. It tends to make the rattan last much longer but many people dont like it because it can add significantly to the weight and can make shots land differently. It makes the sword have a different "feel" when it hits you and a lot of your shots may get called light because of it.

( rubbing his own thigh) I HATE siloflex...stings like a $@#*

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR><font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Nicolai von Magdeburg:
( rubbing his own thigh) I HATE siloflex...stings like a $@#*</font><HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Block that shot.

Hmmmm... I've never had a problem with shots from siloflex hitting light. Usually pretty solid. Feels a little different, but you quickly get used to it. Don't care for it myself, but I don't object to it either.

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Anybody else want to negotiate?

The reasoning behind siloflex is that you can use smaller diameter rattan. The siloflex is the brand name of a plastic pipe. It can be purchased from many retail hardware store locations.

It is exactly 1.25" outside diameter with a 1" inside diameter. This makes it perfect for those people who want a small light stick to fight with. It also makes those small light sticks last longer than you would expect from a light small stick.

It does change the 'snap' of the stick when it hit slightly, but no other major problems.

Brandr hinn Rusli

I like siloflex for a few different reasons. The first is that lasts longer. Second, is that the swords/daggers look better. They’re not all nobbled and covered in ugly tape.

I don’t like them because of the effort you have to put into make one. I can make a single handed sword in about an hour. It take longer to get the siloflex over the rattan core and even longer to get the handle cut out once it’s on. And it’s heavier than a rattan sword of the same size.

The biggest issue you’ll have is that if you used shaved rattan, the swords will break. You need to use rattan with the skin on it. The shaved rattan works fine for a dagger. I’ve had mine now for over two years and I’ve only had to replace the thrusting tip.


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Baron Arland the Bastard
http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/rivetedmaille

Siloflex: One machine, a thousand exercises.

They're just now allowing Siloflex on an experimental basis in Meridies, although I haven't seen it in use yet.

Just what we need more plastic on the field.

Like I posted before the swords do look better than a rattan one. I’ve also never seen a siloflex/rattan sword mush out and stick someone with a long rattan splinter. So I’m all for it. Plastic or not I like the look better some huge knobby rattan club with chunks taped down.

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Baron Arland the Bastard
http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/rivetedmaille

Being heavier though is a bad thing. From what I understand, our rattan swords are already heavier than what most real swords were in period. If siloflex adds even more weight...If we strive to make our armor more period, shouldn't we also strive to make the weapons we use more period...Granted we can't use any of our weapons to their full potential...no hitting with the hilt, no using spears like quarterstaffs...Some people are just determined to keep all their bones intact aren't they?

As I said they are heavier than a sword made from 1.25in rattan. That is not to say they are heavier than some of the swords I see all time that are 1.50 and thicker. So it really depends on whose sword you’re referring to.

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Baron Arland the Bastard
http://clubs.yahoo.com/clubs/rivetedmaille

I just wanted to say thanks for all of the info. It really helped in my other discussion.

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Lord Iamys MacMurray
"Rome did not create a great empire by having meetings...
they did it by killing all those who opposed them." ...unknown

I have never seen a Siloflex weapon. But The idea interests me.
Does anyone have a picture of one?

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR><font face="Verdana, Arial" size="2">Originally posted by Murdock:
Just what we need more plastic on the field.</font><HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

If your against the use of siloflex swords in Meridies, or if your for them, write the Kingdom Earl Marshal with your opinion, pro or con. Remember that they are being used on a TRIAL basis, they are not, a permanent fixture...yet.

IF you dont write him he wont know, and for the most part, silence is acceptance. dont just complain about it,
document your opinions/reasons your for or against it.

and if you dont send a letter stating that your for or against them, then dont complain if the experiment results go against your opinions

Ulrich

I am currently against them, but before I send in my letter, I am going to make one and try it, as to make a better informed decision.



[This message has been edited by Ulrich (edited 05-07-2001).]