Fabric covered gribs for rattan swords

Gethin · Post by **Gethin** » Tue Apr 10, 2001 12:18 am

Sorry that should be "Grip"
I was looking at the pictures of T-Bob's scabbards, and noticed that he had covered the grip of his sword with leather.
How would this be done and what is the life span for it? I can guess at the process, but I am not sure.
Thanks in advance.

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All the best,
Rhys
"Art calls for complete mastery of techniques, developed by reflection within the soul"
Sifu Jun Fan Lee

[This message has been edited by Gethin (edited 04-10-2001).]

LR of E · Post by **LR of E** » Tue Apr 10, 2001 8:38 am

I use soft deerskin suede that a friend gave me years ago. The cheap easy way is to use spray adhesive on the handle and then work the leather around it cutting off the excess when dry. It works wonderful, I love it. If you are grip sensitive as I am you'll need to remove more of the rattan as the grip material adds bulk. I'm not sure of the period way but I remember hearing of glue and tacks/nails being used.

Gaston · Post by **Gaston** » Tue Apr 10, 2001 11:33 am

All my rattan swords have leather covered grips. I cut the rattan down to size and shape, coat it with glue, and spiral 1" leather strips around it securing both ends with a brass or copper tack. On longer grips I'll add a tack or two in the middle somewhere.

They last better than expected, and really help me hang onto the sword.

Scott · Post by **Scott** » Tue Apr 10, 2001 4:40 pm

Rhys,

I have suede grips on most of my non-broadswords. The single handed weapons which do not have basket hilts on them all have a leather grip (daggers, axes, maces) and the great sword & bastard swords also have leather grips. The pollarms do not, since you want to be able to slide your grip around.

I shape the grip and use contact cement to adhere the suede. Come by Mission if you want to check them out.

- Scott

Armourkris · Post by **Armourkris** » Fri Apr 13, 2001 9:04 pm

i dont know how this matches up to ratan, but the hilt on my sword has pine shims, i have it wrapped in cotton usning a
japanese-ish patern, it works really well. i pretty much swear by it, i'd imagin if i tacked it into place it'd work on anything

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What, drawn, and talk of peace! I hate the word, As I hate hell, all Montagues, and thee: