Metal weapons group

Metal weapons groups is an old term used to describe reenactment groups or societies that recreate ancient and medieval combat using weapons made of metal, rather than using alternative materials, e.g. rattan (SCA swords), foam (a favourite of live roleplaying groups).

The term is falling into disfavour amongst reenactment groups due to its inference that the only activity available in these groups is combat. Other terms used to describe reenactment groups include living history groups and (in Australia) medievalists.

The combat rules often require more care with respect to the speed, placement and strength of each blow due to the danger involved in using metal.

Variations

In the UK reenactment society events are primarily a battle reenactment with a living history encampment also present. These events are usually open to the public. The US seems to follow a similar pattern.

Australian reenactment groups follow a slightly different pattern.

Events are usually closed to the public and run primarily for the reenactor. The event might be for a single group, a group and a selection of others or it might be open to all.

Displays are specifically for the public. There are some larger displays now that incorporate multiple groups, but for the most part they are usually run by just one group (two if they are closely linked).

Example groups

United Kingdom

• The English Civil War Society
• Far Isles, The Company of the Motley Wolf
• The Medieval Siege Society
• The Sealed Knot
• The Vikings

Australia

• Fire and Steel
• Grey Company
• The Huscarls
• New England Medieval Arts Society
• New Varangian Guard
• Pike and Musket Society

See also:

• Other re-enactment sites