Cunnan - User contributions [en]

Combat

2006-01-22T17:40:59Z

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The following articles relate primarily to [[SCA]] combat.

There are two primary divisions in fighting: [[single combat]] and [[team combat]]

== Topics ==
=== [[Weapons]] ===
*[[Hand-held weapons]]
**[[Sword]]
**[[Mace]]
**[[Axe]]
**[[Polearm]]
**[[Bow]]
**[[Crossbow]]
*[[Siege weapons]]
*[[Throwing weapons]]
**[[Chakram]]
**[[Dart]]
**[[Throwing Axe]]s
**[[Rocks]]
**[[Javelin]]
*[[Fencing]]
**[[Rapier]]
**[[Dagger]]
**[[Fencing Foil]]
**[[Epee]]
**[[Schlager]]

=== Tactics ===
*[[Hand to hand combat tactics|Hand to Hand Combat Tactics]] - [[Heavy Fighting]] / Armoured Combat
*[[Archery]] - [[Light combat]]
*[[Art of defence]] - [[Rapier]]
*[[Formations]]
*[[Unit Commands]]

=== [[Tournament]]s ===
*[[Running a Tournament]]
*[[Tournament style]]s
*[[Tournament Ranking]]

=== [[Laws|Rules and Regulations]] ===
*[[Authorisation]]
*[[Legal target areas]]
*[[Rules of the list]]
*[[Conventions of Combat]]
*[[Marshal's handbook]]
*[[Minimum armour]]
*[[Assumed armour]]
*[[Armour]] [[inspection]]

[[Category:Combat]]

Arrow

2006-01-22T17:37:59Z

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Arrow

2006-01-22T17:36:43Z

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Maille

2006-01-22T17:30:13Z

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'''Maille''' is the [[period]]-correct [[French]] term for what has commonly been called ''' ''"chainmail"'' ''' since [[Victorian]] times and now modernly in [[roleplaying|D&D]]. ''' '' 'Mail' '' ''' is the [[English]] term. Maille is made of many interlocking [[metal]] rings, and one of the most common forms of [[armour]] was the maille [[hauberk]].

== Manufacture ==

In [[Europe]], the 1-to-4 pattern was completely dominant. In [[East Asia]] (primarily [[Japan]]), mail was also common, but here several more patterns were utilized and an entire nomenclature developed around them. In the [[Middle East]] and [[India]], yet other patterns were developed (but 1-to-4 being the most common) and often combined with metal plates linked in with the rings.

Historically, the rings composing mail [[armour]] would be riveted or welded shut, to reduce the chance of the rings splitting open when subjected to a thrusting attack or a hit by an [[arrow]]. Also structural integrity of the garment could be held without a heavier gauge of wire, when compared to butted mail.

In modern [[re-enactment]] and [[live-action roleplaying]] games, split sprung [[steel]] washers are sometimes used. Usually a two pairs of pliers are used to bend the washers open and closed whilst "knitting" the chainmail. The resulting mail is usually heavier than traditional wire-wound mail, which is also used by reenacment groups.

Members of the [[New Varangian Guard]] and other Australian reenactment groups sometimes make their maille from spring steel rings. By using spring steel, you can use a finer gauge of wire and still retain strength. However, for truly tough and light maille, you cannot go past riveted maille. Another option, if you have the money, is always titanium - strong, light and if you ask some nicely they might anodize it for you.

In the [[SCA]], you will find people whose skill at making historically accurate mail varies right across the spectrum; from amateur to true artisan.

[[category:armour]]

Talk:Rapier

2006-01-22T17:26:57Z

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I feel that the comment that the rapier became useful on the battlefield in the early 17th C is a bit of a stretch. The ECW did not see their use in battle (the basket hilted sword and hanger were used instead). Any evidence to support the statement?

Rapier

2006-01-22T17:24:01Z

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[[category:weapons]]
A '''rapier''' is a slender, sharply pointed, two-edged [[sword]] with a blade at least 90 [[centimetre]]s in length, often sporting an elaborate [[hilt]] and hand-guard. The SCA uses [[reproduction rapier]]s in "heavy rapier" fencing.

The rapier developed in the second half of the [[16th century]] as a modification of what is now known as the "cut-and-thrust" style [[sword]]. It was slimmer and nimbler than the thrusting [[broadsword]], a feature that enabled it to grow longer, and increased the usefulness of thrusting attacks thanks to its reach.

The rapier became popular in [[Europe]] in the 16th century primarily as a weapon for civilian use. In parallel to the rapier, other weapons were developed for use in war in response to the increasing protection offered by fully articulated plate [[armour]]. These included the [[estoc]] and many speciality [[polearm]]s-- such as the later versions of [[halberd]].

As [[steel-plate]] [[armour]] became obsolete or shrunk in size due to the increasing use of [[firearm]]s in the late 16th century and the beginning of the [[17th century]], the rapier, in various modified forms, gained usefulness on the battlefield. During the [[17th century]] the cup hilt was added to the rapier giving the hand increased protection again thrusts.

The rapier is capable of both slashing and thrusting attacks, but the style of fighting popular during its advent and heyday favoured the thrusting attacks we popularly associate with "[[fencing]]".

The rapier's slimmer cousin, the smallsword or the [[Fencing Foil|foil]], is the sword most often associated with the [[duel]]s of [[honour]] depicted in [[literature]] and movies, such as ''[[The Three Musketeers]]''.

For a more detailed explanation of the primary use of the rapier-- Dueling-- see [[European dueling sword]].

For a thorough and somewhat technical discusion of the rapier see:
* Characteristics of the Rapier by Chris Evans - http://swordforum.com/articles/ams/char-rapier.php

===SCA Rapier===
In the [[SCA]], the term 'rapier' is commonly used instead of '[[fencing]]'. In those kingdoms that utilize both epees and rapiers they are respectively called "light" and "heavy" rapier. In [[Lochac]], 'rapier' also refers to the in-house [[fibreglass rapier|fibreglass]] blades.

Basket hilt

2006-01-22T17:20:49Z

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A '''basket hilt''' is a type of hand protection for [[sword]]s and [[mace]]s in [[combat]]. They are rigid and often made welded bars, or a complete steel covering. Coincidentally, they look somewhat like a [[basket]]. The pros for basket hilts is that they give your sword weight at the bottom, and are very effective in protecting your hand from injury. The disadvantages of using a basket hilt is that they can be confining, weigh your sword down, and some find it restricts wrist movement.

Other types of hand protection which can be used are [[ice hockey gloves]] (aka 'gumby'), [[gauntlet]]s or [[clam shells]]. A [[quillion]] can be used instead of a basket hilt so long as any of the above ''hand'' protections mentioned above are used.

Consult your local [[kingdom]] [[marshal's handbook]] for more information.

Historically basket hilts were introduced during the [[16th century]] as plate gauntlet use declined. They were only used on swords.

Basket hilt

2006-01-22T17:20:16Z

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SCA sword

2006-01-22T17:16:10Z

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[[SCA]] [[fighting]] is not choreographed. What makes this possible is our [[armour standards]] and [[weapon]]ry. The SCA sword is essentially a [[club]]: it's a stick of [[rattan]] wrapped in [[fibre tape]] and [[duct tape]], given a [[blade]] side (defined with [[electrical tape]]), with a [[basket hilt]].

Most reenactment groups in Australia also fight in unchoreographed combats except in specific situations such as a display where sometimes a desired result is needed as part of a show.

After getting your stick of rattan, cut it down to a nice size. A "standard length" for a sword is a length that enables you to swing it loosely back and forth by your side and the tip just touches the ground - but, of course, you can make it to whatever you feel comfortable with. Wrap your rattan in fibre tape, then a good few layers of duct tape. Decide which side feels comfy and which side would make a good blade side (there are various arguments about which way the blade should go, but in the end, it's '''UP TO YOU'''). Attach the [[basket hilt]]. You may also like to add a [[thrusting tip]].

There is your new SCA sword!

All other SCA weapons are basically a variant on this.

''external link: http://www.io.com/~caladin/sword.htm''
[[category:weapons]]

Weapons

2006-01-22T17:11:45Z

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===Weapons in the SCA===
Most '''weapons''' used in the [[SCA]] are made out of [[rattan]]. Weapons are constructed according to guidelines laid out in the [[combat handbook]]. Nothing can be done to the rattan that changes its flexibility.

SCA "[[SCA sword|Swords]]" are usually shaved down on the sides and out of the back [[blade]]s with a plane or spokeshave, then covered with [[tape]]. Once taped, they cannot be less than 31.8 mm (1¼ inches) in diameter. Swords may be fitted with a [[thrusting tip]], which is required to have at least 12.7 mm (½ inch) of [[progressive give]], and may not double over. A [[basket hilt]], [[quillion]]s or the equivalent is required.

[[Thusting tip]]s are usually contructed from [[closed cell foam]] with a [[leather]] collar around the area where the [[rattan]] and the thrusting tip are joined to prevent doubling over.

[[Axe]]s are considered a [[mass weapon]] and thus cannot weigh more that 4 pounds. The head can be constructed out of several materials, the most common being [[closed cell foam]] (like a camp mat) and must have [[progressive give]] over the whole head.

[[Mace]]s often have a foam head with rattan splints attached to the outside, this is then taped over and is usually attached to a handle(haft) that is relatively short and is also considered a [[mass weapon]].

Two handed weapons such as the [[glaive]], [[halberd]] and [[great sword]] are all [[mass weapon]]s and have many different methods of construction.

It is a good idea to shape the handle of your weapon so that you can tell if you are hitting with the "[[blade]]" or the "flat" of your weapon.

==Hand weapons==
*[[sword]]
*[[SCA sword]]
*[[spear]]
*[[mace]]
*[[hammer]]
**[[maul]]
*[[flamberge]]
*[[great sword]]
*[[polearm]]s
**[[pike]]
**[[glaive]]
**[[halberd]]
*[[dagger]]
**[[dirk]]

==Missile weapons==
*[[axe|throwing axe]]
*[[bow]]
*[[crossbow]]
*[[javelin]]
*[[longbow]]
*[[rocks]]

==[[siege weapons|Siege Weapons]]==
*[[trebuchet]]
*[[catapult]]
*[[battering ram]]

Talk:Crossbow

2006-01-22T17:10:02Z

144.137.119.138:

I don't think that the statement aboput crossbow accuracy is accurate (no pun intended), and crossbowmen were higher paid so they must have been on some use. Using a crossbow for a modern person isn't quite as easy as it looks particuarly when pulling the string back to be caught. Perhaps this is what the auther is referring to?

Crossbow

2006-01-22T17:08:07Z

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A '''crossbow''' is a special type of [[bow]]. The flexible limb (lath or bow) is attached to a central stock. The lath is also referred to as the prod in the [[US]]. The string is drawn back by manual or mechanical means and is held in position by a catch such as a rotating nut or peg. The [[weapon]] can then be loaded with a crossbow [[bolt]] or quarrel, which is basically a stick or metal rod, perhaps with [[feather]]s, parchment or leather to stabilise the quarrel in flight. The heads were frequently much larger than arrowheads and consisted primarily of bodkins style points. To fire, the user just aims the stock in the direction of the target, and pulls the lever which releases the string.

It is a very powerful weapon but its lack of accuracy makes it really only effective over a short distance.

A larger weapon that works like a crossbow is a [[ballista]].

==Crossbows in the SCA==

In the [[SCA]], any crossbows that are used in [[combat]] must be restricted according to the specifications set out in the [[Society]] and [[Kingdom]] [[combat handbook]]s.

[[Archer]]s may also find that they are required by state, territory, province or federal [[law|laws]] to hold a license for their crossbow. This is particularly important to check when going to any event outside your normal [[groups|group]], e.g. interstate or international.

[[category:weapons]]

Crossbow

2006-01-22T17:06:21Z

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A '''crossbow''' is a special type of [[bow]]. The flexible limb (lath or bow) is attached to a central stock. The lath is also referred to as the prod in the [[US]]. The string is drawn back by manual or mechanical means and is held in position by a catch or lever. The [[weapon]] can then be loaded with a crossbow [[bolt]] or quarrel, which is basically a stick or metal rod, perhaps with [[feather]]s, parchment or leather to stabilise the quarrel in flight. The heads were frequently much larger than arrowheads and consisted primarily of bodkins style points. To fire, the user just aims the stock in the direction of the target, and releases the string.

It is a very powerful weapon but its lack of accuracy makes it really only effective over a short distance.

A larger weapon that works like a crossbow is a [[ballista]].

==Crossbows in the SCA==

In the [[SCA]], any crossbows that are used in [[combat]] must be restricted according to the specifications set out in the [[Society]] and [[Kingdom]] [[combat handbook]]s.

[[Archer]]s may also find that they are required by state, territory, province or federal [[law|laws]] to hold a license for their crossbow. This is particularly important to check when going to any event outside your normal [[groups|group]], e.g. interstate or international.

[[category:weapons]]

Glaive

2006-01-22T17:03:25Z

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The '''glaive''' is a [[medieval]] [[Europe]]an [[polearm]] with a long [[knife]]like blade. The blade curved back and was sharpened on the outside; it was a slashing and chopping [[weapon]]. Glaives were used to protect [[archer]]s, [[crossbow]]men, and [[firearm|gunner]]s.

In Japan, a glaive-like weapon called the naginata was at one stage the primary weapon of the samurai. It was later replaced by the yari (spear).
[[category:weapons]]

Weapons

2006-01-22T17:01:02Z

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===Weapons in the SCA===
Most '''weapons''' used in the [[SCA]] are made out of [[rattan]]. Weapons are constructed according to guidelines laid out in the [[combat handbook]]. Nothing can be done to the rattan that changes its flexibility.

SCA "[[SCA sword|Swords]]" are usually shaved down on the sides and out of the back [[blade]]s with a plane or spokeshave, then covered with [[tape]]. Once taped, they cannot be less than 31.8 mm (1¼ inches) in diameter. Swords may be fitted with a [[thrusting tip]], which is required to have at least 12.7 mm (½ inch) of [[progressive give]], and may not double over. A [[basket hilt]], [[quillion]]s or the equivalent is required.

[[Thusting tip]]s are usually contructed from [[closed cell foam]] with a [[leather]] collar around the area where the [[rattan]] and the thrusting tip are joined to prevent doubling over.

[[Axe]]s are considered a [[mass weapon]] and thus cannot weigh more that 4 pounds. The head can be constructed out of several materials, the most common being [[closed cell foam]] (like a camp mat) and must have [[progressive give]] over the whole head.

[[Mace]]s often have a foam head with rattan splints attached to the outside, this is then taped over and is usually attached to a handle(haft) that is relatively short and is also considered a [[mass weapon]].

Two handed weapons such as the [[glaive]], [[halberd]] and [[great sword]] are all [[mass weapon]]s and have many different methods of construction.

It is a good idea to shape the handle of your weapon so that you can tell if you are hitting with the "[[blade]]" or the "flat" of your weapon.

==Hand weapons==
*[[sword]]
*[[SCA sword]]
*[[spear]]
*[[mace]]
*[[hammer]]
**[[maul]]
*[[flamberge]]
*[[great sword]]
*[[polearm]]s
**[[pike]]
**[[glaive]]
**[[halberd]]
*[[dagger]]
**[[dirk]]

==Missile weapons==
*[[axe|throwing axe]]
*[[bow]]
*[[javelin]]
*[[longbow]]
*[[rocks]]

==[[siege weapons|Siege Weapons]]==
*[[trebuchet]]
*[[catapult]]
*[[battering ram]]

Bow

2006-01-22T16:59:59Z

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=== Bow (weapon) ===
A [[weapon]] consisting of a curved, flexible strip of material, especially [[wood]], strung taut from end to end and used to launch [[arrow]]s.

''See also:''
* [[Archery]]
* [[Longbow]]
[[category:weapons]]
=== Bow (action) ===
The act of nodding, [[curtesy]]ing or bending at the waist towards someone as an act of respect. In [[medieval]] [[dance]]s, the [[reverence]] is used as a type of bowing during, before and after each dance.

Polish

2006-01-22T16:56:27Z

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'''Polish''' is a [[Slavic language]] spoken in [[Poland]]. It remained largely an unwritten language until 1500 as all official documents were written in [[Latin]].

Oddly enough it's the only word in the English language (adopted or otherwise) that completely changes its meaning when you change it from a proper to a regular noun.
[[Category:Language]]

Polish

2006-01-22T16:56:01Z

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'''Polish''' is a [[Slavic language]] spoken in [[Poland]]. It remained largely an unwritten language until 1500 as all official documents were written in [[Latin]].

Oddly enough it's the only word in the England language (adopted or otherwise) that completely changes its meaning when you change it from a proper to a regular noun.
[[Category:Language]]

Authenticity Mavins

2006-01-22T16:52:06Z

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Also known as Authenticity Police and Authenticity Nazis and other snotty terms.

Make no mistake, these terms are insults. While they can be used to refer to someone who attempts to do things accurately, they are more often used to refer to anyone who is perceived to be trying to force their standards of accuracy on others. In the legends spread about them, they are frequently depicted as self-indulgent cretins who are lacking in some aspect of accuracy themselves. They are thought to frequently refer to people who aren't as interested in [[authenticity]] as they are as "Farbs" and "Bobs". They are believed to aggressively attack and insult others around them. These legends serve to create more trouble by causing people are already insecure about their level of accuracy to assume that anyone discussing their clothes, whatever, are in fact attacking them. '''These people do exist in the SCA but are less common than supposed.'''

[[category: SCAism]]

Schlager

2006-01-22T16:48:30Z

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The Schlagers (or schlaeger) used in SCA [[rapier]] combat are from the German Mensur or "fraternity dueling" developed in the [[18th century]]. Specifically the practice weapons from this form. The schlager blade was originally seized upon as an SCA rapier simulator because it was the only commercially available blade that approached the form and function of a period rapier. Fortunately this is no longer true, but many people still have Schlagers and some people still buy new ones because they are considered to be less expensive than reproduction rapiers (in actuality the less expensive reproduction rapier blades can be purchased for the same price OR LESS).

In many areas and/or kingdoms all heavy rapiers are mistakenly called schlagers due to the history of original use.

Mensur is a slashing form. The idea is to slash with the blade or tip to draw blood. The schlager blade was designed with this in mind. A schlager maintains a constant width and thickness of the blade once you pass the [[ricasso]], this makes the blade somewhat tip heavy which lends itself to quick slashing movements.

This blade construction differs from the profile and distal taper of period rapier blades and the modern reproduction rapier blades now available.

Talk:Claymore

2006-01-22T16:33:55Z

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Languets aren't fullers or 'blood grooves'. They are parts of the hilt that overlap the scabbard. I believe that languets are apprpriate here and that 'blood groove' is inappropriately placed.

Claymore

2006-01-22T16:31:14Z

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Wolfhound

2006-01-22T16:21:21Z

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'''Wolfhounds''' are the tallest breed of modern dog and are descendants of the 'cu' or 'wolfe dogges' of Irish antiquity albeit crossbred with a number of other breeds in the 1800's. They are sighthounds and have shaggy short fur that may be coloured grey, brindle, red, black or fawn.

They are known for their great size, loyalty, gentle temperament towards their adopted families. They do suffer from join problems is not cared for in their youth and on average live to be only 6 to 8 years old, though some have attained ages almost double that.

=== Gelert ===
The most famous tale of a 'wolfe dogge' is that of Gelert (after whom an inordinate number of wolfhounds are now named) who was the dog of Llewelyn, Prince of North Wales in the 13th Century.

When Llewelyn's infant son was left alone in his cradle a large wolf entered the room. Gelert discovered the wolf and fought and killed the wolf in the same room knocking over the cradle and splashing blood all over. Llewelyn hearing a noise rushed to the room to find his son's cradle covered in blood, and Gelert's muzzle coated in the same. In a rage he drew his sword and pierced Gelert's side causing the hound to emit a mournful howl. Just as he finished doing so he heard a noise from behind the cradle to find his son unharmed and just behind the cradle, previously out of sight the carcass of the largest wolf Llewelyn had ever seen.

Llwellyn is said to have mourned his loyal hound greatly and erected a monument him near the river Glaslyn.

Cotton

2006-01-22T16:00:01Z

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'''Cotton''' is a cellulose [[fibre]] of vegetable origin. It has a fairly long [[staple]] and can thus be [[spinning|spun]] into very fine thread. It is hard-wearing and takes colour well. However it was not grown in [[Europe]] in [[period]], but was imported from the [[Middle East]]: The fibres of cotton itself are shorter than linen, making it a poor choice for a warp.

"[[Arab]] merchants brought cotton cloth to Europe about 800 A.D.. When [[Columbus]] [[Discovery of the Americas|discovered America]] in 1492, he found cotton growing in the Bahama Islands. By 1500, cotton was known generally throughout the world".

The word cotton may have originally referred to a weave rather than a fibre.
The word "Fustian" has been around since the [[12th century]] ([[England]]) and refers to "a hard-wearing fabric of cotton mixed with [[flax]] or [[wool]] with a slight nap" although it appears to have originally referred to a linen and wool cloth.

[[category:Fabric]]

Directors chairs

2006-01-22T15:51:27Z

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'''Directors chairs''' are a commonly observed sight at [[SCA]] events. They and other modern camping style chairs are one of the most ubiquitious non-period sites in a camp.

Chair

2006-01-22T15:49:40Z

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'''Chairs''' are typical defined as a seat supported by legs with a back support or rest. During the medieval period much variations of chair appeared, some being very ornate and with varying number of legs, although three is recommended as the ideal number for stability.

[[Directors chairs]] are commonly used in the [[SCA]] in place of historical styles of chairs.

Trestle tables

2006-01-22T15:46:59Z

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'''Trestle tables''' consist of a board or boards linked together to form a flat surface. This board is then set upon a number of legs that typically fold away. Historically it seems the majority of these trestle has three legs for stability.

Such tables seem to appear in both high and low ranking homes in the middle ages.

Table

2006-01-22T15:44:43Z

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A '''table''' is a piece of furniture consisting primarily of a flat board or boards set up from the ground with either attached, improvised or separate legs.

Tables can be very elaborate as might be seen in higher ranking homes or might be simple [[trestle tables]].

The [[10th century]] Sala Hytta [[table]] stood approximately 12 cm high.

Florentine

2006-01-22T15:19:48Z

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'''Florentine''' is a non-period term for using two swords in combat.

Not a demonstratably historical fighting style for battle or for [[tournament]], it does have a basis in reality for late period civillian duelling with [[rapiers]] where it is referred to as a 'case of rapiers'. Examples of cases of [[rapier]]s have been found, but the extent of their use is debated.

It is an unlikely historical style in either early period combat where a shield is preferable or in later combat where the shield was less necessary due to the more effective armour as a single handed sword is unlikely to penetrate plate harness, and weapons such as the poleaxe gained a greater footing. It may have been an option of last resort.

Florentine

2006-01-22T15:12:10Z

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'''Florentine''' is a non-period term for using two swords in combat.

Crossroads

2006-01-22T15:10:54Z

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<div style="float:right; margin: 0 0 1em 1em;">[[Image:Crossroads_guild_hall.jpg]]<br>The guild hall at the crossroads site.</div>

'''Crossroads''' is a Cooperative that was formed with the goal of creating a self sustaining [[medieval]] [[village]]. It began in 1991 and the Crossroads site in Yass, near [[Canberra]], now has its first building (built using medieval construction methods).

It is well known for its dust levels.

=== External Links ===
The official Crossroads website can be found at - http://www.crossroads.org.au

Talk:Cloak

2006-01-22T15:08:35Z

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Detached hoods? Shouldn't that be separate hoods? I can't think of any period examples of hooded cloaks off hand, especially not early medieval.

Linen

2006-01-22T14:54:54Z

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A fabric made from the [[flax]] plant. It comes in a white or off white colouring. Linen doesn't take [[dye]] well (except [[blue dye]] from [[woad]]), so most linen was used bleached white or off white.

There is also some mention of "[[blackened linen]]" in some [[period]] texts, generally as a material used for making [[armour]] (specifically [[gambeson]]s). It is assumes that this is some kind of waterproof material (used by [[sailors]] etc), but no-one is sure exactly how the linen was blackened ([[tar]], [[pitch]], [[charcoal]], a [[bog]]).

Linen was generally used to make [[underclothes]] for both men and women, as well as to line outer garments usually made from [[wool]] were used for outer layers. [[Silk]] was used for outer garments as well, and also linings depending on when and where you are talking about.

Linen is cool in summer (cooler than almost any other natural fibre) and warmer in winter than [[cotton]]. You can tell real linen in the shops - crinkle it up in your hand, then release it. [[Cotton]]s will have a few creases, but linen will have lots. Linen will also feel a lot cooler on warm days to your hands, and will quickly warm up to your hands on cool days.

Some people think that newly purchased linen tends to shrink a lot, so make sure you prewash and dry it at a slightly higher temperature than you will normally use, once or twice before you cut out garments from it. Linen used in period [[garb]] doesn't need dry cleaning or ironing - after a few washes it will get softer and most creases will fall out.

[[category:Fabric]]

Linen

2006-01-22T14:53:41Z

144.137.119.138:

A fabric made from the [[flax]] plant. It comes in a white or off white colouring. Linen doesn't take [[dye]] well (except [[blue dye]] from [[woad]]), so most linnen was used bleached white or off white.

There is also some mention of "[[blackened linen]]" in some [[period]] texts, generally as a material used for making [[armour]] (specifically [[gambeson]]s). It is assumes that this is some kind of waterproof material (used by [[sailors]] etc), but no-one is sure exactly how the linen was blackened ([[tar]], [[pitch]], [[charcoal]], a [[bog]]).

Linen was generally used to make [[underclothes]] for both men and women, as well as to line outer garments usually made from [[wool]] were used for outer layers. [[Silk]] was used for outer garments as well, and also linings depending on when and where you are talking about.

Linen is cool in summer (cooler than almost any other natural fibre) and warmer in winter than [[cotton]]. You can tell real linen in the shops - crinkle it up in your hand, then release it. [[Cotton]]s will have a few creases, but linen will have lots. Linen will also feel a lot cooler on warm days to your hands, and will quickly warm up to your hands on cool days.

Some people think that newly purchased linen tends to shrink a lot, so make sure you prewash and dry it at a slightly higher temperature than you will normally use, once or twice before you cut out garments from it. Linen used in period [[garb]] doesn't need dry cleaning or ironing - after a few washes it will get softer and most creases will fall out.

[[category:Fabric]]

Axe

2006-01-22T14:48:56Z

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===Axe ([[tool]])===
A [[blade]]d [[tool]], customarily used for hewing, chopping or shaping wood. Think [[hammer]] but with an edged blade in place of the flat/convex head. Possibly more common than hammers in the [[neolithic]] period, because flints and other breakable rocks more often break to leave edges (especially when you're using them as hammers).

Axe shapes in the medieval period depending on their use. Felling axes have very basic shapes often similar to some modern felling axes (not the American style), but others have a beard that is useful for protecting the hands when shaping boards. Early medieval axes seem to be categorised by eyes that have small lugs or none at all. Later medieval axes developed metal sheathes that extend down the handle a distance, but are not always present.

Felling axes are shaped so that the edge forms an axis of symmetry throught the centre of the axe. Broadaxes (such as the t-shaped examples show working on the ships inthe Bayeux Tapestry) have this edge offset so that they can be used to shape boards and smooth planks.

===Axe ([[weapon]])===
[[category:weapons]]
An '''axe''' may also be used as a [[weapon]] in [[tournament]]s or melees. The handle of the axe is made of rattan. The [[head]] can be made of various things, such as rubber, foam, [[rattan]] or [[leather]].

The smaller, lighter throwing axe is a [[missile weapon]], so it is not used in tournaments. Rubber and more foam is used instead of rattan in its construction (NEED TO CHECK THIS).

Historically, hand axes lost some popularity when armour got too solid for them to go through easily, but this was restored when they were put on poles (see [[poleaxe]]), which gave range and increased hitting power.

Tool

2006-01-22T14:45:55Z

144.137.119.138:

A '''tool''' is an instrument which, practically, intercedes between the workman and the work to be done, and which enables the workman (or woman) either to do what, by their natural endowments, they could not (for example, a [[metal]] chisel enabling the cutting of [[stone]]) or to do better what they could do themselves in but a poorer manner (for example, [[spectacles]] to improve vision).

Many tools are themselves used to create other tools. An obvious example is the [[anvil]] which a [[smith]] uses to make [[plough-share]]s, [[rake]]s, [[hoe]]s and the like which will then be used in [[agriculture]].

== [[Period]] tools==
* [[farming]]
** [[hoe]]
** [[plough-share]]
** [[spade]]
** [[shovel]]
** [[rake]]

* [[building]] (including [[carpentry]], [[mason]]ry)
** [[adze]]
** [[augur]]
** [[axe]]
** [[chisel]]
** [[drawknife]]
** [[pole lathe]]
** [[saw]]
* [[blacksmith]]ing
** [[anvil]]
** [[hammer]]
** [[tongs]]
* [[jewellery]] work
* [[shoe]]making
** [[awl]]
** [[half moon knife]]

Hoe

2006-01-22T14:44:24Z

144.137.119.138:

A hoe is a bladed [[tool]] mounted transversely and at 90 degrees to a wooden handle. It is used for digging furrows or small trenches in soil.

Adze

2006-01-22T14:43:05Z

144.137.119.138:

An '''adze''' is a wood working tool that has a straight or convexly curved blade mounted transversely to its wooden shaft and with the blade angled 90 degrees to the direction of the shaft.

It is used to shape the face of wooden objects typically to hollow them out.

A common tool until relatively recently in history, a typical person wood not be able to make the distinction between an adze and a [[hoe]] in our modern society. In fact some adzes have been found used in such a manner.

Adze

2006-01-22T14:41:53Z

144.137.119.138:

An '''adze''' is a wood working tool that has a striaight or convexly curved blade mounted transverslely to its wooden shaft and with the blade angled 90 degrees to the direction of the shaft.

It is used to shape the face of wooden objects typically to hollow them out.

A common tool until relatively recently in history, a typical person wood not be able to make the distinction between an adze and a [[hoe]].

Axe

2006-01-22T14:37:54Z

144.137.119.138: Added some info.

===Axe ([[tool]])===
A [[blade]]d [[tool]], customarily used for hewing, chopping or shaping wood. Think [[hammer]] but with an edged blade in place of the flat/convex head. Possibly more common than hammers in the [[neolithic]] period, because flints and other breakable rocks more often break to leave edges (especially when you're using them as hammers).

Axe shapes in the medieval period depending on their use. Felling axes have very basic shapes often similar to some modern felling axes (not the American style), but others have a beard that is useful for protecting the hands when shaping boards. Early medieval axes seem to be categorised by eyes that have small lugs or none at all. Later medieval axes developed metal sheathes that extend down the handle a distance, but are not always present.

===Axe ([[weapon]])===
[[category:weapons]]
An '''axe''' may also be used as a [[weapon]] in [[tournament]]s or melees. The handle of the axe is made of rattan. The [[head]] can be made of various things, such as rubber, foam, [[rattan]] or [[leather]].

The smaller, lighter throwing axe is a [[missile weapon]], so it is not used in tournaments. Rubber and more foam is used instead of rattan in its construction (NEED TO CHECK THIS).

Historically, hand axes lost some popularity when armour got too solid for them to go through easily, but this was restored when they were put on poles (see [[poleaxe]]), which gave range and increased hitting power.

Spade

2006-01-22T14:29:52Z

144.137.119.138:

A '''spade''' is a digging tool primarily used to 'cut' the soil. It can also be used to lift out the loosened soil, but that is a better job for a [[shovel]].

Spades historically have been made with wood, wood with metal edges and also with full metal blades. Spades depicted on the Bayeux Tapestry are asymetrical with the handle running up one side of the tool. Later spades appear closed to modern spades.

Tool

2006-01-22T14:26:37Z

144.137.119.138:

A '''tool''' is an instrument which, practically, intercedes between the workman and the work to be done, and which enables the workman (or woman) either to do what, by their natural endowments, they could not (for example, a [[metal]] chisel enabling the cutting of [[stone]]) or to do better what they could do themselves in but a poorer manner (for example, [[spectacles]] to improve vision).

Many tools are themselves used to create other tools. An obvious example is the [[anvil]] which a [[smith]] uses to make [[plough-share]]s, [[rake]]s, [[hoe]]s and the like which will then be used in [[agriculture]].

== [[Period]] tools==
* [[farming]]
** [[hoe]]
** [[plough-share]]
** [[spade]]
** [[shovel]]
** [[rake]]

* [[building]] (including [[carpentry]], [[mason]]ry)
** [[adze]]
** [[axe]]
** [[chisel]]
** [[drawknife]]
** [[saw]]
* [[blacksmith]]ing
** [[anvil]]
** [[hammer]]
** [[tongs]]
* [[jewellery]] work
* [[shoe]]making
** [[awl]]
** [[half moon knife]]

Centre boss

2006-01-22T13:54:08Z

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A '''centre-boss shield''' was a type of round or oblong shield common in [[period]]. It has called a centre-boss because of the single central grip, protected by a metal boss. Most centre-boss shields actually had a hole in the centre with the grip flush to the shield, with the protective boss projecting outward from the shield face itself. There is some speculation that historical some may have had a slight conical shape to the shield.

Historically these shields metal bosses in the centre riveted to the wooden planked body which could be up to 95cm in diameter. Behind the shield is a wooden or metal crossbar to act as a handle. The face and back of the shield could be covered in leather stuffed with grass and painted.

Centre-boss shields are handled very differently from other shield types (such as the [[kite shield]] or the [[heater shield]]) which are strapped to the arm. Tending to be smaller and more light-weight, a centre-boss shield is "punched" towards an incoming blow.

Centre-boss shields were commonly used by the [[Anglo-Saxons]] and and [[Norse]], but were known across the [[medieval]] world.

[[category:armour]]

Round shield

2006-01-22T13:49:28Z

144.137.119.138: Oops wrong place

Round shield

2006-01-22T13:47:38Z

144.137.119.138:

'''Round shields''' are flat shields (although there is some speculation that some may have had a slight conical shape to the shield) particulary associated with the [[Saxons]] and [[Vikings]]. They have metal bosses in the centre riveted to the wooden planked body which could be up to 95cm in diameter. Behind the shield is a wooden or metal crossbar to act as a handle. The face and back of the shield could be covered in leather and painted.

[[SCA]] round shields are typically made of plywood.

Round shield

2006-01-22T13:46:57Z

144.137.119.138:

'''Round shield'''s are flat shields (although there is some speculation that some may have had a slight conical shape to the shield) particulary associated with the Saxons and Vikings. They have metal bosses in the centre riveted to the wooden planked body which could be up to 95cm in diameter. Behind the shield is a wooden or metal crossbar to act as a handle. The face and back of the shield could be covered in leather and painted.

[[SCA]] round shields are typically made of plywood.

Talk:Norman shield

2006-01-22T13:41:13Z

144.137.119.138:

Conrad :: please feel free to delete anything you want rid of. I've rather gone on a bit.<br>--[[User:Simoncursitor|Simoncursitor]] 09:05, 6 Apr 2005 (CDT)

:In the spirit of wiki's I don't see anything that needs to be deleted. I may get around to rewording a little, but it's all good information and should stay. I also intend to get around to writing something about its use in SCA combat. Most articles on Cunnan are too short anyway. [[User:Conrad Leviston|Conrad Leviston]] 18:54, 8 Apr 2005 (CDT)

Thanks, I think this does add in the spirit of what i was trying to say - I deleted because I had gotten too far into unfounded speculation and couldn't find a line to take it back to.
[[User:Tiff|Tiff]] 23:15, 12 Apr 2005 (CDT)

15th Century Norman shields? Can someone direct me to a reference for that?

Norman shield

2006-01-22T13:40:09Z

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[[image:Normancav.jpg|thumb|right|Soldier on horseback with a Norman shield]]

The '''Norman shield''' was used by the [[Norman]]s from the [[11th century|11th]] to [[15th century|15th]] centuries. It is a large, curved [[shield]], often referred to as a '''kite shield''' because of its shape.

A kite shield extends the bottom the the shield down into a long point, giving it an overall "teardrop" shape. This shape means very good protection for the shield-side leg.

In addition, it is cross-strapped, the shield being held in place by an "X" of leather straps. The kite also had two grips, one at the top edge of the shield, allowing it to be wielded with ease [[infantry|on foot]]; and another at a right angle along the edge, allowing a [[cavalry|mounted warrior]] to carry the shield and handle the reins with his left hand, while the right hand wielded a weapon.

It should be noted that the figure in the picture at right has the shield [[slung]] at his shoulder, rather than gripped for [[combat]].

It is not known now the extent to which shields of this type and period actually were decorated (although other contemporary sources appear to indicate that they were), nor whether any decoration was a proto-example of personal heraldry, an indication of allegiance amongst different bands fighting together, or the artistic choice of the crafters who made the shields.

[[category:shield]]
[[category:armour]]

Shield

2006-01-22T13:38:49Z

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'''Shields''' are the large, sometimes, flat things carried into [[combat]] for protection (but we can assume you already knew that much!!).

Shields in the [[SCA]] are normally made of ply [[wood]] (although, because SCA people are silly, a piece of wood you are about to turn into a shield is referred to as a 'shield blank'). They ''should'' be heavy enough to absorb the impact of most blows from [[weapon]]s. Some people believe the shield should be as heavy as you can handle so it has more resistance to your opponents' blows, although some may find this less maneuverable. Others say it should be as light as you can get away with, although this means your shield can be more easily moved by your opponent, and that it will break more quickly. For safety reasons, all shields are required to be edged with hose (heater hose, plastic hose, garden hose... just not your pantyhose).

There are several types of shields you can make:
*[[Bunny round]]
*[[Heater]]
*[[Kite shield]]
*[[Round shield]]
*[[Centre boss]] round
*[[Buckler]]
*[[Square shield]]
*[[Tower shield]]
*[[Roman shield]]
*[[Rapier shield]]

A shield is a good place to show off your [[device]]. You can either paint it directly onto the shield, or cover the shield in canvas and then paint it (this has the advantage of protecting your wood, but it'll weigh down your shield a lot). Another idea is that you can make a slip that goes over your shield (think of your ironing board cover. That sort of thing.) You can paint your device, your [[household]]'s device, your [[barony]]'s device, or whoever you're fighting for.

Pike and Musket Society

2006-01-22T13:34:51Z

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The '''Pike and Musket Society''' or the '''Routiers''' are a [[living history]] organisation whose focus is on the military aspects of [[17th century]] [[Europe]]. It was formed in [[Australia]] but has international associations.

They concentrate on the Trained Bands (or "Trayned Bandes" if you prefer) of [[London]] during the period of the [[English Civil War]]. Even more specifically, the Second Captain's Company of the Green Band. The Society's aim is for as much historical accuracy as is practicable. [[Clothing]], [[weapon]]s and accoutrements are carefully reconstructed, based on historical [[research]], preferably using [[primary source|primary (period) sources]].

Their reasoning is "to take historical [[re-enactment]] seriously, and ourselves seriously not at all!" - the opposite tack to some other organisations.

Wesbite: http://www.theroutiers.org/

<center>
''The above description is based on the content of http://www.theroutiers.org/whatis.htm''
</center>

==The Routiers and the SCA==

The Pike and Musket Society gives more importance to the historical accuracy of the construction and look of its props and actions than the [[SCA]], but there are many areas of interest and discussions that have quite happily involved [[member]]s of both societies. However, this mutual acceptance is not universal for all members. There is a historical habit of some members bad-mouthing the other society on the basis of previous incidents involving members some of which have since left the societies. Some of this ridiculing may still be found on various webpages.