Costume Weapons at Faire

[Poldugarian Warrior]

Usually MiRF is no weapons, but the past two years they've allowed real (steel bladed) peace-tied. But even during the years of the no weapons policy, costume (plastic bladed weapons were allowed). I would usually find a scabbard to fit the blade, so it would cover the fake look and the hilt would still show wrap that with some fabric sport tape to make it look a bit better than plain plastic. Just allow the pommel and quillions (hand guards) to show. Then still peace-tie that, and it was cool. So I think you'd be fine if you go to any no weapons carrying faire, just always go to faire with it, ask at the gate if you can get in with it, and go from there.

[L Dale Walter]

I think the overall climate towards weapons has changed since I started doing shows in the early 80's.  Back then it was a MAJOR undertaking to have a sword, and reflected a different mindset.  Now people see them as costume accessories rather than weapons, and can get them with a few internet clicks..

I still don't get WHY anyone would want to carry a heavy and unwieldy sword while they stomped around a faire if they didn't have to, but that is probably my years of having to do so as a fight director talking. 

Having been attacked on 3 seperate occasions by sword wielding patrons back in the day, I know where the rules came from.  In the last 10 years I haven't been drawn on once by a patron, and, playing the nasty bad guys I do, or a very flirty Porthos, I am kind of a big target.

I would say that the danger, for the most part, has passed.  To those of you who want to carry swords, I will say this in warning; it's going to take one incident to end it for EVERYONE.  Police your own.

L. Dale Walter
Director
Knights of Iron

[Poldugarian Warrior]

Right on L Dale. Keep 'em peace-tied. It's the other guy that's usually going to grab for your blade to check it out, and they usually hurt someone. Even those plastic and wooden blades should be tied. I know I've always doen so. Some kids are obnoxious  even wielding the wooden ones, I've been asked to duel on a few occasions. I'd like to play along, but I explain it's just not safe for them or me. And being a patron I don't want no trouble.

[Capt Robertsgrave Thighbiter]

Uusually booze + weapons = lawsuit.  Not a recipe for a good time. I well understand the no weapons policy if there is alchohol at a faire.

[Poldugarian Warrior]

I've gone to faire with costume weapons at my side, many a time. And as long as I had something to complete the look I was happy. I can understand the no steel blade policy. But, if they don't allow costume plastic light weapons, but allow kids to carry around wood. Something's got to give.