The Armour Archive

Working on a greatsword this weekend and I need some help on how to construct the thrusting tip. Any suggestions?

I use a raquet ball.

http://rhinohide.cx/tousando/img/polear ... ng-tip.jpg

Neet-o!
I assume the raquet ball has the proper give?

Yes. We have been using them for years in the Outlands. I believe I first learned the technique from Sir Haroun, long-time Marshal for the Barony of Dragonsspine.

You can make a more permanent sleeve for the ball by using two 1.5" straps of leather, crossing them in an X, and sewing the intersection together.

Ron Broberg wrote:I use a raquet ball.

http://rhinohide.cx/tousando/img/polear ... ng-tip.jpg

Would it be a good idea to carve a bit of a concave socket in the tip of the rattan, just to help keep the ball centred?

I doubt that carving the tip would help much once the ball is taped into place. If it is taped well, the shearing force of a two-handed strike using a 4+ foot pole is what eventually destroys the tip by tearing the leather. Most often, the tips will work loose from their tape just enough that the ball is no longer safely held against the tip - this is what Marshals and the owner of the weapon need to watch for. Complete failure is when the ball pops loose of its harness during combat.

I often glue a piece of foam on the tip of the rattan before setting the ball on it, just for a little extra saftey.

http://www.mandrakearmory.com/Merchant2 ... y_Code=TPS

check with your local marshallette to make sure it is legal.

The Mandrake tip, without question.

cool, I want one!!

Have you tried the rubber tow ball cover? or have you gone passed that now?

Wulfgar

D. Sebastian wrote:Neet-o!

I concur! How simple. The only flaw I could even guess at is that the rounded face might not 'stick' to some targets, like steel cuisses. Regardless, I'm going to try it

~Wil