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Market Square => Arms and Armor => Topic started by: Cobaltblu on June 23, 2008, 11:07:21 AM

Title: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Cobaltblu on June 23, 2008, 11:07:21 AM
My home faire (The Sterling Renaissance Festival) is now allowing peace tied weapons and I am looking at how to accomplish this task.  I could not find instructions on the internet on how to peace tie weapons.

What sorts of ties are typically acceptable and what kinds of things are deemed acceptable to tie to?  Are these typically plastic or metal ties or would it generally be acceptable if I made a simple knot with a length of red linen cloth I cut into a strip?

Is the purpose of peace-tying to prevent other people from drawing your steel or is it meant to somehow prevent the owner from drawing their steel?  If someone really wanted to draw steel they could easily pull a plastic zip-tie off.  If a person really wanted to threaten someone or harm someone I doubt they would be worried if the faire security saw them without a peace tie installed and would kick them out of the faire.

For example if a dagger handle has a cross bar but its sheath does not have a belt loop it would be difficult to tie the dagger to its own sheath.  In this case would it generally be acceptable to tuck the dagger (and sheath) under my belt and just tie the dagger to the belt?  In this case someone could pull the sheath off the dagger but the dagger would be tied under the persons belt and could not be used against someone.

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Black Armor on June 23, 2008, 12:04:54 PM
I hear that my home faire here in Michigan (Mi Ren Fest in Holly) will be allowing peace tied weapons this year.  It looks like the security people at the gate will be putting a peace tie on for us as we enter. 
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: groomporter on June 23, 2008, 12:19:32 PM
MNRF zip ties weapons as they come in the gate, but for a long time there and at a many fairs as long as you had a cord or leather thong tying the knife/sword to the sheath so it couldn't be quickly drawn, it was considered peace tied. It's been a couple decades since I came through the public gate though so I don't know if that's still acceptable at MNRF
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Trillium on June 23, 2008, 12:24:35 PM
It probably depends on your faire's decision on what is acceptable but at TRF just using a cloth or rope is acceptable (when they even check).  The purpose is usually 2 fold: to keep curious and usually drunk on-looker from pulling your weapon without your knowledge and to keep you from pulling your weapon without thinking.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Lady Christina de Pond on June 23, 2008, 01:05:51 PM
when i peace tye my sword i usually take ribbon( yes i know guys aren't gonna use ribbon i can get bye with it ok ) i usually go under the sword belt loop and then over my my hilt last year i did it down the sheath it looked pretty neat but i think the most that you really need is over the hilt and under the sword belt as long as it can't be easily pulled from the sheath
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: escherblacksmith on June 23, 2008, 01:44:21 PM
yeah, you need to check with you local rules, but odds are, if it is tied in enough that a random person can't just draw it, then you should be good.

AZRF peace zip-tied my Vice-grips multi-tool.

Go fig.

Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Lady Christina de Pond on June 23, 2008, 03:49:29 PM
Rofl that would be a sight to see someone peace tying a gerber
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DonaCatalina on June 23, 2008, 03:58:08 PM
I make peace ties for Don Juan out of scraps so that his swords match his garb. 14-15 inches is usually long enough to go through the hanger straps, and around the hilt a couple of times.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Once Debauched on June 23, 2008, 11:13:41 PM
Here in St. Louis they use zip ties at the front gate if your weapon isn't already tied in some fashion.

I'd say just tie it off where it can't be easily pulled and chances are you're good.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: groomporter on June 24, 2008, 08:16:33 AM
Of course all a Scotsman needs to peace tie his "weapon" is a bit of blue ribbon
::)

-Runs away sniggering
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on June 24, 2008, 09:17:10 AM
DID I READ RIGHT, PLEASE TELL ME I AM NOT HALLUCINATING,  "STERLING IS NOW ALLOWING PEACE TIED WEAPONS'
HALLELEUAH  YAYYYUS, THEY HAVE SEEN THE LIGHT AND OUR PRAYERS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED.   Now that I have gotten that out of my system, there are several ways to peace tie a weapon.  if you want to be as close to P.C. as you can get for the times, you can use a rose.  A real one if you can get one with a lot of thorns.  The idea being that if you were to attempt to draw in the heat of the moment the thorns would wake you up to the potential reality of the situation and calm you down.  I have resorted to a wire leather rose and while I have never been hot enought to attempt to draw, there have photo ops at the fencing corral at some faires where swords are crossed and photos taken, so sometimes it is necessary to be able to draw if there is a need.  Usually the guards at the gate once they see that my blade is peace tied they have immediately put away their little pieces of plastic.  In a couple of events when I have had to have those put on I usually can cover them up with the rose or a leather thong, or something.  At least now I can look forward to going to what used to be my home faire.     
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Kruzar on June 24, 2008, 10:54:04 AM
I know for the faires that I have attended that for peace tying it is merely a preventative of being able to draw the weapon quickly.  Every tie can be broken, and it is really there more as a preventative more than anything else.

I personally tie my blade with a black leather cord that does not look out of place with my garb.  I wrap it in a way that the pommel is tied to the scabard and the blade can not be pulled without untying. 

This tie has worked for me at several faires, but each faire is a little different.  I have seen the zip tie method as previously mentioned, and it will really depend on your faire.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: PurpleDragon on June 26, 2008, 09:43:04 AM
While weapons are supposed to be peace tied when they come through the gates at most (if not all) faires that allow them. Sometimes the guards at the gate do not look close enough.  I can usually get through the gate without a peace tie for some unknown reason, and they stop the guy behind me and make him peace tie his.  Now, the simplest peace tie method is to use zip ties as has been mentioned.  (Any weapon that is purchased at the booth I work at TRF (The Pirates Cove) is peace tied in this manner), or you can do as I have actually started doing.. I leave the swords at home.. much less tired and less sore at the end of the day if I am not lugging around that piece of steel all day long.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Hatter on June 26, 2008, 08:47:16 PM
I've been to several Fairs and have found that MNRF is the most dedicated to peace tie.  They almost always zip tie my weapons even if I have them tied with leather.  There is some difference between gate personnel. I have found a couple that allow my leather ties.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: robert of armstrong on July 02, 2008, 11:30:57 AM
One of the keys to a Peace Tie is that it CANNOT be drawn with the Peace Tie on, not by you, and not by that druken brute of a  mundane we have all heard about, every Faire seeme to have one. 

One has to not only make sure that the weaon will not leave the scabbard, but also that the scabbarded weapon cannot be pulled out of the frog, or off the belt.  It would be embarissing to have to chase a person down through the Shire after then not only get your weapon, but the scabbard for it as well.  With swords, a heavy duty zip-tie around the handle, just above the pommel (or hand guard), then down and through the belt loop in the frog works well.  It can then be covered/camoflaged with a strip of leather, fabric, etc.  Just remember that Staff will most likely want to see the Peace Tie, so be able to move whatever you use to disguise it for examination.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Oldarcher on July 07, 2008, 06:57:08 AM
At 2007 Minnesota RenFest I had my Longbow arrows tied together in the quiver with a leather boot lace which was then tied to the quiver itself. No problems at the gate or inside, not even any questions. My Longbow remained unstrung of course!
(http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d165/zampilot/DSC01932.jpg)
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DeadBishop on July 07, 2008, 06:32:30 PM
That's good to hear they let you in with arrows. According to their own guidelines, they weren't supposed to.  Hopefully they're being a little lax on minor things like that.  I do know for the weekend of the archery tourney, they made exceptions.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Valiss on July 07, 2008, 06:36:51 PM
Ha!  I have never heard of a faire that doesn't allow weapons.  I mean, how the heck do they expect us to put on sword fight shows, etc, if you can't even carry a weapon?  Of course, I have never heard of a faire that didn't require the weapons to be peace tied.

Anyway, you just tie some string or whatever you have on the handle and to your holder or belt.  It's not like the staff comes by and tries to pull your weapon to test it.  As long as it looks tied, you're good to go!

Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DeadBishop on July 07, 2008, 07:05:35 PM
Quote from: Valiss on July 07, 2008, 06:36:51 PM
Ha!  I have never heard of a faire that doesn't allow weapons.  I mean, how the heck do they expect us to put on sword fight shows, etc, if you can't even carry a weapon?  Of course, I have never heard of a faire that didn't require the weapons to be peace tied.

There are actually quite a few faires that don't allow weapons.  The Maryland Renaissance Festival, for one.  It's one of the largest in the U.S., and they don't allow weapons of any kind.


Quote
Anyway, you just tie some string or whatever you have on the handle and to your holder or belt.  It's not like the staff comes by and tries to pull your weapon to test it.  As long as it looks tied, you're good to go!

That's not entirely true.  I've seen security walk up to patrons and "test" peace ties.  If it failed, they sent the patron back to the front gate for a re-tie.  Even if you have your own homemade peace tie, some faires will still add their own just as a precaution.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Valiss on July 08, 2008, 11:23:18 AM
Quote from: Deadbishop on July 07, 2008, 07:05:35 PM
Quote from: Valiss on July 07, 2008, 06:36:51 PM
Ha!  I have never heard of a faire that doesn't allow weapons.  I mean, how the heck do they expect us to put on sword fight shows, etc, if you can't even carry a weapon?  Of course, I have never heard of a faire that didn't require the weapons to be peace tied.

There are actually quite a few faires that don't allow weapons.  The Maryland Renaissance Festival, for one.  It's one of the largest in the U.S., and they don't allow weapons of any kind.

Quote

Anyway, you just tie some string or whatever you have on the handle and to your holder or belt.  It's not like the staff comes by and tries to pull your weapon to test it.  As long as it looks tied, you're good to go!

That's not entirely true.  I've seen security walk up to patrons and "test" peace ties.  If it failed, they sent the patron back to the front gate for a re-tie.  Even if you have your own homemade peace tie, some faires will still add their own just as a precaution.

Ah, indeed, perhaps it is an East Coast thing.  I have been to many a faire on the Other coast and have yet to be denied a weapon. Naturally they are peace tied.  And to that effect you are correct in that it should not be able to be drawn.  But I must admit that I find it a bit humourus to envision knights walking around faire with no weapon to guard the queen.  :)

While the guards in our land do physical checks from time to time, what I meant was that they traditionally don't line everyone up with a weapon and try to draw all your weapons.  As long as it can't be drawn, you should be fine.  Just use common sense make sure it's obvious that you have tied it.


Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: groomporter on July 09, 2008, 11:02:46 AM
Quote from: Valiss on July 07, 2008, 06:36:51 PM
Ha!  I have never heard of a faire that doesn't allow weapons.  I mean, how the heck do they expect us to put on sword fight shows, etc, if you can't even carry a weapon?  Of course, I have never heard of a faire that didn't require the weapons to be peace tied.

They limit weapons to only the contracted stage combat troupe, jousters, or other  authorized cast members. MIRF is supposed to be just relaxing their rules starting this season.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on July 09, 2008, 12:15:03 PM
Yup and as stated on the first page of this thread Sterling also is reconsidering this, IMHO, foolish policy.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Valiss on July 09, 2008, 12:16:30 PM
Quote from: BLAKDUKE on July 09, 2008, 12:15:03 PM
Yup and as stated on the first page of this thread Sterling also is reconsidering this, IMHO, foolish policy.

Interesting.  Why do you think this is a bad choice?
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: groomporter on July 09, 2008, 10:40:35 PM
I think he meant the old policy was foolish/over protective.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Oldarcher on July 10, 2008, 06:57:14 PM
"That's good to hear they let you in with arrows. According to their own guidelines, they weren't supposed to."-Deadbishop

No offense intended but there was/is nothing in the rules about not allowing arrows (knock on wood). I had a copy of the policy with me, just in case. The Gatewench didnt even ask!!  :)
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Valiss on July 10, 2008, 07:08:01 PM
Quote from: Oldarcher on July 10, 2008, 06:57:14 PMActually, there was/is nothing in the rules about not allowing arrows (knock on wood). I had a copy of the policy with me!  :)

Hahahaha, carry that around with you, do you? Are you some kind of trouble maker?!  :)
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: L Dale Walter on July 11, 2008, 07:45:10 AM
Quote from: groomporter on July 09, 2008, 10:40:35 PM
I think he meant the old policy was foolish/over protective.
You guys have to remember that times have changed.  I have been doing shows since 1981, and in the 80's, a patron with a sword was BIG trouble.  I have been in 3 swordfights with patrons who attacked me.  It isn't much fun having a drunk guy trying to hit you with a sharp object.  To make 3 long stories short, 2 out of 3 went their attack, my parry, riposte with kick, they hit the ground, police take them away.  The third I was blindsided by a guy who hit me with a full power shot to the back (my armor saved me, and still bears the scar.  He knocked two of my ribs lose from the cartilage, and they still pop out sometimes 20+ years later) and I knocked him out with a spinning backfist, and then the police took him away.

But that was then.  Remember, in 1984ish getting a sword was not easy.  Very few were commercially available.  You had to make quite the effort to get one, or make it yourself.  It was sort of a telling fact if someone was carrying a sword that SOMETHING was going on in their heads that was quite different than everyone elses...

Then Museum Replicas showed up in 1986ish and changed everything.  Now swords were available, albeit expensive, and rarely in stock (for those of you who remember calling MR all geared up about buying a sword, and being told NOTHING was in stock as Del Tin couldn't keep up) still, it took effort to have a sword.

Now you can get just about anything.  People buy them as costume accessories rather than as the "center of their being".  The mindset has changed.  Windlass, Paul Chen, and everything from Pakistan has made it easy to get one to hang on your belt, and cheap too.

SO, I don't think there will be thr problems we had with swords in the 80's.  I do hope everyone carrying one doesn't act like a jerk and make it a "mine's bigger than yours" kind of thing. 

Remember, it's all a show, where people are supposed to have fun.

L. Dale Walter
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: SirRichardBear on July 11, 2008, 08:19:19 AM
I've had a lot more trouble with drunks and kids carrying wooden swords than I've had with people in grab with real weapons.  Every season it seems I have to block some kid wildy swinging thier new wooden sword around from hitting someone.  Most of the time the parents just look at you like way are you ruining my darlings fun.  Drunks are even worst, but drunks normally are no madder whats going on.   

One of the things I find amusing is that I've had people question me about my sword but no one questioned my staff.   I've trained much more and am much better with a staff than a sword yet no one looks twice at my staff funny how people can over look things because they have a certain mindset.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Cobaltblu on July 11, 2008, 08:53:45 AM
I am shocked that someone would attack a person at a renaissance festival.  I know this was the 80's but it was the 1980's and not 1580's.  Role-playing is one thing however why on earth would someone actually attack someone?

If anyone actually attacked me with a knife or sword I would assume they wanted to kill me and would defend myself even if it meant killing them.  Of course with my securely peace-tied weapon I might not live very long.

I appreciate the advice and received my Rondel Dagger from Arms & Armor and successfully peace-tied it to my belt last night.

On a side note at faires where patrons can have peace-tied weapons do the security (off-duty police officers?) usually carry guns?  A few security guards with whistles and pepper spray don't seem like much of a match for someone with a sword.

Regards,

CB
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Hoowil on July 11, 2008, 12:19:04 PM
I've seen two fights at SCA events, which do not require peace tieing, but none at faires. At the SCA events, volunteer constables, armed with staffs procedded to beat the offenders into submission. They were then held under armed guard until dawn (they both happened after 2am) and then escorted of site to a waiting police car. Both involved newbies/first timers, and 'appropriated' steel.

I have to say, if someone is drunk, or angery (or both) enough to draw steel, a zip tie isn't going to do squat. A leather thong probably won't be much better.

But I do have to say, make sure the sheath is well secured as well. I did, at the last faire I attended (with a new sword, that didn't fit my hanger very well) have the backet hilt zip tied to my belt. All good, until, as I chased my little one, the sheath slipped through the hanger, and fell off behind me. Sword secure. But it was a real !@&^%$@# to get the sheath back on the blade, with the hilt attatched to my belt, and the blade still in the hanger.

And yeah, kids (of ages 2 to 80) with wooden weapons seem to be the greater problem. Had to yell at one kid for trying to hit my daughter, whose 18 months old.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Cuhail on July 11, 2008, 04:58:09 PM

I have been a Bristol Rennie for many, many years now and before I was an employee, I always noticed that security would give my hilt a yank and if it didn't come out of the scabbard, it was okay. If it did, they would zip-tie it.
My peace tie is always attached to my sword belt, so, whatever blade and scabbard I slide in there can always be peace-tied with the same method. The actual peace-tie is a length of leather cord with both ends going into and coming out the same direction of a metal...bead. I loop the cord (behind/under the bead) over my crossguard and just cinch the bead down the leather cord until it's snug against the crossguard and then tie a single-loop knot with both cord ends on top of the bead, making it impossible to just pull the bead loose. The sword stays where it is until you need to loosen it and unscabbard.

The way I look at it, a peace-tie is a promise by the weilder to keep his/her blade in it's scabbard where it belongs. If security doesn't trust your promise, they zip the sucker in.

Hope I've helped,
Cuhail McMurphy
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Dallan on August 04, 2008, 02:07:13 PM
A mildly amusing piece tie story: We traveled to a festival that was several states to the south of us for the first time this fall. At the gate a teenager working there asked me to allow her to piece tie my sword as I had expected she would. After a very enjoyable day we returned to the car to prepare to head back to the hotel. As I lifted the baldric over my head so that I could put it in the car the sword slide from its scabbard and hit the ground, piece tied still to itself. So much for security.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on August 13, 2008, 02:58:36 PM
Dallan:

That is not as uncommon as you would think.  I have had ladies tie brightly colored ribbons only to the hilt of my rapier.  Thank God I have my own piece tie that secures it to the scabbard and the baldric.  I have tried to tell them, but they give me this Stepford Wife look, smile and go to the next weapons carrier.

They walk amoung us, they breed, and they vote  scary isn't it??????
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: jcbanner on August 13, 2008, 03:58:21 PM
Quote from: BLAKDUKE on August 13, 2008, 02:58:36 PM

<snip>

They walk amoung us, they breed, and they vote  scary isn't it??????

Yes!
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Oldarcher on August 18, 2008, 06:59:44 PM
Took the arrows and longbow in again Sunday, the gentleman at the gate said, as he shook the quiver, "if they dont come out they can go in", the gatewench agreed!
HUZZAH (as I could not find a copy of The Policy this year) !!

Mead is now spendier though, I'll have to sneak some in.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Oldarcher on October 03, 2008, 04:08:14 PM
My Queen and I also went the third-to-last w/e, they wouldnt let tied arrows in!!! Not a surprise, they can be erratic at the gates :o.  My arrows warped anyway so instead of using them to shoot around corners 8) I think I'll cut them and glue them into a wooden puck that'll fit in the quiver.
Maybe that'll get them in next year! :-\
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Obadiah Jib on October 05, 2008, 09:32:44 PM
I use a leather cord as a peace tie on my blades while working at the Minnesota Festival.  Sometimes I attach beads or other interesting bits to make it look better.  When doing organized street fights (read as STAGE COMBAT) as a cast member I use a loop to secure the weapon but remove seconds before the show.

I can not count how many times I have had patrons yank on my weapons.  I'm pretty good about letting anyone touch my arms but steel is never drawn.  While a few of these bold patrons have been drunks a good number are kids who just push past all decent rules of contact while Mom and Dad sit back and wait to call the Lawyer on the cell phone.  And don't get me started on kids with wooden swords!
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Lady Christina de Pond on October 21, 2008, 12:10:08 PM
i'm thankful i'm creative and peace tie something very cute on my sword as well for the fact that my sword has a strap on it's sheath that snaps over the cross guard and keeps it in anyway. some crazy teenager asked me this year at Garf is he could hold my sword. i said i'm sorry but no i should have said they king would have his head for thinking of touching another person's weapon
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on October 22, 2008, 03:51:27 PM
Quote from: Valiss on July 09, 2008, 12:16:30 PM
Quote from: BLAKDUKE on July 09, 2008, 12:15:03 PM
Yup and as stated on the first page of this thread Sterling also is reconsidering this, IMHO, foolish policy.

Interesting.  Why do you think this is a bad choice?

Valiss:

I am sorry for the lengthy time for this response.  However Your name does not sound familiar to me, therefore I will assume that we do not know each other.  If that is true then I will explain.  the subsequent post after yours is true the former 'NO WEAPONS' policy was foolish.  On this board and on the old board, just ask any of the old timers about my opinon of faires that do not allow weapons.  simply put my opinion of them is lower than whale dung.  I have always been most vocal about it.  In those case where I could not reach the powers to be with common sense, I reached into their pocketbooks and stated firmly that I would boycott that faire until that policy is done away with.  As such KCRF, MIRF, BARF, MICH RF,  and any other faire that banned weapons I have not attended.  We won't discuss the fact that I have not had any opportunity to attend any of those mentioned but if I did I would not.  I have expounded at length on the reasoning on other threads that you can search and read so I will not go into here.  I am glad to see that some  of these faire are re-examining their thinking and revising said policy.  Welcome to the board.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on October 22, 2008, 04:07:26 PM
L.Dale:

I have read with interest the many tales you have told about your encounters with brain dead mundanes.  I cannot discount what you say.  while I have not been to the faires that you have,   I too attended faires in the 80's and never saw any of the types of incidents that you describe.  Rest assured I am not saying they did not happen, it was probably just different venues and such.  Actual fighting weapons as you say were not common back then, that is why I had to find wall hangers(those were abundant) that I liked and then adapted them to eppe/foil blades.  As an avid fencer in my youngers days that was my weapon of choice.  By the 90's is when I started to hear of faires that banned weapons.  It is ironic that 2 faires mentioned Sterling and Maryland both allowed weapons in the 80's and yet if you asked any of the staff they would always state that they never did until I showed them pictures.  Then the true story would come about "well there was this time when we had a drunk.... etc, etc, etc."  You know the rest.  It is nice though that the majority of faires DO allow weapons, so for the ones that don't.....  Oh well I don't have to go to those.   Hope to see you at a faire.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: jcbanner on October 27, 2008, 10:33:16 AM
Quote from: Obadiah Jib on October 05, 2008, 09:32:44 PM
I use a leather cord as a peace tie on my blades while working at the Minnesota Festival.  Sometimes I attach beads or other interesting bits to make it look better.  When doing organized street fights (read as STAGE COMBAT) as a cast member I use a loop to secure the weapon but remove seconds before the show.

I can not count how many times I have had patrons yank on my weapons.  I'm pretty good about letting anyone touch my arms but steel is never drawn.  While a few of these bold patrons have been drunks a good number are kids who just push past all decent rules of contact while Mom and Dad sit back and wait to call the Lawyer on the cell phone.  And don't get me started on kids with wooden swords!

That sounds much the same as what we do at my home faire, leave the swords tied untill a short bit before we need them.

I have no idea why at faires "Mom and Dad" suddenly feel that its no longer their responsibility to watch their kids, we're not a day care center, and it they went to a theme park they wouldn't expect the ride operators and lane characters to watch their kids, why do they expect it here?

Wooden swords should be piece tied just as much as any other sword, just because its wood, doesn't mean it cant do damage.  I have no idea how many things on have been broken because of some kid running around waving one of those blasted things.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Black Armor on October 28, 2008, 10:16:34 AM
Quote from: jcbanner on October 27, 2008, 10:33:16 AM
Wooden swords should be piece tied just as much as any other sword, just because its wood, doesn't mean it cant do damage.  I have no idea how many things on have been broken because of some kid running around waving one of those blasted things.

I usually have a few kids each day come up and start hitting my armor with those wooden swords while the parents just stand by and laugh.  Appearently they think that's what I'm there for but I just don't get it.  I try to be as nice as possible because they're kids and it's really the parents' fault but it really ticks me off sometimes.  It's just really inconsiderate. 
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Jack Daw at Work on February 12, 2009, 07:04:27 AM
TX Ren Fest does not get picky and does not require zip ties.  I secure my Scottish dirk in by using a leather thong, tying the knob ontop of my dirk pommel to a loop in its scabbard.  I use a leather thong to peace-tie my two-handed claymore, too.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Carl Heinz on March 02, 2009, 12:30:19 PM
I haven't carried a sword in years, but do carry sharp pointies on my belt ranging from a rather long dirk to daggers of varying lenghts.  All have sheaths with built in leather straps as peace ties.

Now for my rant to the folks who do carry swords.  Please be aware of where the tip is.  I've seen too many folks have their shins whacked because someone carrying a sword was too careless to keep control of the tip of a sword.  Adults might be aware that there's a sword tip in their area and avoid it, but kids frequently aren't.  As far as I'm concerned, it's the responsibility of the person carrying a sword to be aware of the tip.  I've also seen folks carrying swords in scabbards so worn that the tip was exposed.  When I carried a sword, I used a baldric that could be rigged for vertical carry.  I could rehang it for an angled carry but usually did not.

So please be aware of the tip of your pieces.

End of rant.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Manwariel on April 10, 2009, 11:37:21 AM
My sword has a sheath, but even so, do you have any advice on how to make sure one avoids wacking people with it?  :P It's rather long (42 inches overall. In hindsight, I probably should have gotten a shorter one).

And I have a sword frog. At what angle should my sword be?
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on April 10, 2009, 12:00:00 PM
I have run into this problem before, and while I might have come back(in my younger days)  with "this is our realm let them beware", I also have to realize that they are the paying customers that keep our fantasy going, without them we would be home admiring a vast collection of weapons and garb with no place to go.  However I have to admit changing a bit due to an annoyance on my part.  I do not know if I am shrinking or what, but as of late I have seen an increasing occurance of my rapier scabbard getting caught up in my spurs.  so I am faced with a delicate balancing problem, keeping the tip low enough so as not to blind some wee one and yet high enough so as not to trip over it myself.  My personna is not conducive to a broadsword that hangs down, I have alway carried a rapier except for the first couple of years when I carried a gold swept hilt Charles II blade.   At last years Mobile faire I found a good compromise in a shorter clam-shell hilted court sword.  I will look this weekend to see if my baldric can be modified to have it as a straight down carry or see how far it will stick out with a normal rapier like angle.  If the baldric is not modifiable then I will have to see if I can fashion a frog for my belt.     
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: SirRichardBear on April 10, 2009, 12:06:36 PM
sword frog should be hung from your belt slightly behind the middle of your leg.  When you let your left hand drops to your side it should rest on the hilt of your sword naturally.    The sword itself should angle behind you.  You use your left hand to control the sword angle and direction in crowds the sword should be more directly behind you instead of at your side.  
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on April 10, 2009, 12:17:20 PM
I wholeheartedly agree, however with a 38" blade it is getting increasingly more difficult to control the blade and scabbard and
still enjoy myself at faire.  I find that I tend to wander mentally at the sights and sound of my surroundings and all of sudden I have a slightly miffed parent shouting at me to watch the sword.  So I think it is time for a shorter blade.  I also thought it might be rather unique if I hollowed out a walking staff and put a rapier blade into it.  covering up the cup-hilt, swept hilt, clam-shell, or pappenhiemer hilt would be problematic.   
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Manwariel on April 10, 2009, 12:51:24 PM
Quote from: SirRichardBear on April 10, 2009, 12:06:36 PM
sword frog should be hung from your belt slightly behind the middle of your leg.  When you let your left hand drops to your side it should rest on the hilt of your sword naturally.    The sword itself should angle behind you.  You use your left hand to control the sword angle and direction in crowds the sword should be more directly behind you instead of at your side.  
Thanks :) I've been wearing it around the house to get used to it :D
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Carl Heinz on April 10, 2009, 01:04:50 PM
The reason I went with the two position baldric was so that I could enjoy faire without having to spend a lot of time watching the location of the tip.  Obviously a sword doesn't lend itself too well to a mobility scooter so those days are no more.  A good dagger or other shorter pointie now meets my needs.

I think the question of angle should also consider whether how much attention it will require to avoid bothering others with it.  And, as I've said, kids are at faire, too, and allownaces should also be made for them.  I believe modern military dress swords/sabers are vertical.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: SirRichardBear on April 10, 2009, 03:38:14 PM
Not totally vertical but its very close its at about a 85 degree angle, tip about three inch behind the leg.  However its no possible to carry a basket sword that way.  Also a veritical carry doesn't work well with a kilt tends to mess up the pleading.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Carl Heinz on April 10, 2009, 04:22:52 PM
As long as responsibility is taken for controlling the tip, then it's not a problem.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: SirRichardBear on April 10, 2009, 10:39:21 PM
In that way I consider it the same as being responsible when I'm on the archery range or when I'm doing a martial arts demo.  You are always responsible for your actions.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Carl Heinz on April 10, 2009, 11:50:16 PM
Had some major grump sessions back in AFR days with those who felt it was up to others to avoid their hardware.  Not a problem with those who feel responsible.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Hoowil on April 13, 2009, 12:58:37 PM
I try to keep track of my rapier when in crowds or tight spaces, and will even spin it around to hook the tip in front of my left ankle to keep it close. If I'm in an open area, where there aren't too many people, I'll carry it normally. At that point, I keep an eye out, but realistically, if someone runs into it, why were they that close? As I said, this is in open areas.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Lady Christina de Pond on April 13, 2009, 01:09:41 PM
thanks for the reminder yall i forgot i need to go home and peace tie my dagger
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Carl Heinz on April 13, 2009, 05:32:13 PM
Quote from: Hoowil on April 13, 2009, 12:58:37 PM
I try to keep track of my rapier when in crowds or tight spaces, and will even spin it around to hook the tip in front of my left ankle to keep it close. If I'm in an open area, where there aren't too many people, I'll carry it normally. At that point, I keep an eye out, but realistically, if someone runs into it, why were they that close? As I said, this is in open areas.
I have the "fun" of having to use a mobility scooter so I have to be constantly on the lookout trying to antipicate the movement of those around me.  It's amazing how many near misses I've had with people who suddenly back up or dart rapidly to one side.  I'm not proposing that those carrying pointies need to exercise the same level of care, but it's really interesting to observe how little awareness many people have of what's going on around them.

When you exercise your choice to carry, you assume the responsibility for insuring that it does no injury to others.  You can't be sure that they are sufficiently aware and avoid you.  Nor can you be sure that what you thought was clear space around you won't suddenly have someone in it.

In these days of litigation at the drop of a hat, I can see an instance of someone sueing the event for such an injury.  This would have a chilling effect on all such events and could lead to long pointies being banned.  I'd really not like to see that happen.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: VIII on April 14, 2009, 12:21:19 PM
Here at Scarborough Faire, performers have a class for carrying weapons.  IF you are going to carry a weapon on-site, even part-time, real or not, you MUST attend one of these classes or you can not carry it.

As far as I can recall, in my 22 years at Scarborough, we have not had an 'incident' (knock-on-wood) with a real weapon since 1990.

As to wooden swords, they are a hazard to life and limb!  We have Student Days and some of those dumb-@ss kids REFUSE to listen!  We have to threaten them with "Security will escort you and your entire group out of here and I will make CERTAIN that they ALL know it is because of YOU that they are sitting in a bus instead of having fun!"
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: jcbanner on April 14, 2009, 01:24:45 PM
we have a student days at my home faire also. its amazing how often we have to tell those kids not to swing those swords around.  but its the supervisors that come with them that I think are the problem there. they act as if once their group is inside the faire grounds, they are suddenly off duty it is the responsibility of the cast to police the kids actions.

there seems to be a strong mentality that since its not a real sword, it cant do any damage, but its still hard and heavy and has a point on it.


back to the other conversation about tip control,  I agree that it is the responsibility of the sword holder to make sure that it is positioned safely, and that they keep an eye on where its is when moving through a crowd, but Its a sad state when its their fault when someone runs into them!  If I'm wearing a sword, and my scabbard smacks someone when I turn around, I'm at fault. but if I'm standing or walking and someone runs into it because they aren't paying attention, its no different than if they ran into me, they are at fault.

whatever happened to personal responsibility?  Where if you screwed up, that was it?  Now, if you screwed up, its someone else's fault because there was the potential for someone else to do something stupid?
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: SirRichardBear on April 14, 2009, 01:58:12 PM
I've heard the story its only a wooden sword numerous times.  I always counter with the story of Miyamoto Musashi who fought over 60 duels many of them with a wooden sword and never lose and in fact killed the majority of his opponent with just his wooden practice sword.   But I agree the real blame is with the adults first for not teaching proper manners and behavior to there little angles and second for not controlling them when they are out in public.

My biggest problem is with my long bow not even carrying the arrows a six foot bow is a little difficult in crowds.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Carl Heinz on April 14, 2009, 04:04:54 PM
Quote from: jcbanner on April 14, 2009, 01:24:45 PM
whatever happened to personal responsibility?  Where if you screwed up, that was it?  Now, if you screwed up, its someone else's fault because there was the potential for someone else to do something stupid?
Yup, that's one of the things that makes getting around on a mobility scooter so interesting.  :)  I've had some instances where I'm sure people have put a foot out hoping that I'd run over it.  Really makes you aware of what's going on around you.  Of course, the plus is that you can spot folks wanting a photo op more easily.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Toua Taru on December 25, 2009, 11:53:15 AM
I'm a "weapon-virgin" and will be carrying for the first time at FLaRF in February. I understand they must be sheathed and peace-tied.

Do they check at the gate before you enter?

I just want to make sure I know the procedure before I get there.

Thanks in advance and Merry Holidays everyone!
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DonaCatalina on January 18, 2010, 02:31:35 PM
Quote from: Toua Sondokan on December 25, 2009, 11:53:15 AM
I'm a "weapon-virgin" and will be carrying for the first time at FLaRF in February. I understand they must be sheathed and peace-tied.

Do they check at the gate before you enter?

I just want to make sure I know the procedure before I get there.

Thanks in advance and Merry Holidays everyone!

You can call the faire office about their policies and for more practical advise, cross post this in the FlaRF forum.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: robert of armstrong on April 25, 2010, 06:48:31 AM
Quote from: Toua Sondokan on December 25, 2009, 11:53:15 AM
I'm a "weapon-virgin" and will be carrying for the first time at FLaRF in February. I understand they must be sheathed and peace-tied.

Do they check at the gate before you enter?

I just want to make sure I know the procedure before I get there.

Thanks in advance and Merry Holidays everyone!

I always peace tie at the car in the lot, if not at home before attending Faire.  Zip ties are best, they come in white, but you can find them in black and even grey if that makes them less obvious while walking around Faire. 

Figure out how to loop the tie so that it secures the weapon in it's sheath - this usually means over the hilt/gaurd of a sword, then through the straps or a hole of the frog that holds the sheath to the belt, or around the belt itself.  Look at your setup and find the best way to secure the weapon in advance.

When approaching the Gates, make a point of approaching the staff checking peace ties and show them what you have done to secure the weapon, and ask them if it is alright.  They may want to alter your tie or attach their own - if they do let them, its their job.

Have fun, and try to remember that you now have a hard object protruding behind you - careful when walking through crowds or in other tight places, you don't want to hit anyone or break anything.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Zaubon on April 26, 2010, 04:18:00 PM
What I've always used is brightly colored ribbon about 1/4" wide.  Wrapped and tied several times around the hilt and scabbard it makes for a very colorful, obvious and effective peace tie. The bright colors are in character for celebrating at a faire and that ribbon way too strong to be pulled off. Throw in the fact that once you pull the knots tight you have to cut them to release the tie. Security has never even questioned me about my blades.

Zaubon
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: FOG on September 10, 2010, 01:07:09 PM
This was my first year attending ren fairs, and somehow I got to attend the gate, and install peace ties.  I had what may be an unusual opportunity for a peace tie when a patron came in with a Colt 1911, in unconcealed carry.  He had the hammer cocked, and I thought he might even have had a round in the chamber (he had an empty chamber in the weapon-perhaps another empty chamber elsewhere- and a loaded magazine).  I made him clear the weapon and keep it unloaded, then I put the peace tie, a zip tie, through the chamber into the barrel and around the outside of the slide, along the lines of the NRA safety device for matches, and then I lowered the hammer and put a second peace tie through the trigger guard and around the hammer so it could not be cocked again.  Finally, I secured the weapon to the patron's belt.  AS a safety measure I also made the patron put the rounds back in the magazine, and store the magazine separately, so the patron would not get his round covered in dirt, risking a dangerous situation should he as some later time fire the rounds in question.

For those of you who live in states with relatively widespread handgun carry, it might do well to think through how you would secure a firearm.  My thought is that the firearm needs to be rendered safe by doing something that prevents cocking the action, loading the chamber, losing the weapon to simple extraction, or which threatens to render a weapon unsafe for later use, such as by getting dirt on rounds.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: groomporter on September 13, 2010, 03:15:16 PM
In Minnesota our carry law allows businesses to ban people from carrying firearms on their premises, so since MNRF is on privately-owned land they have signs at the gates saying they ban guns from the site.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: robert of armstrong on September 14, 2010, 01:08:45 AM
Quote from: FOG on September 10, 2010, 01:07:09 PM
...I had what may be an unusual opportunity for a peace tie when a patron came in with a Colt 1911, in unconcealed carry...

For those of you who live in states with relatively widespread handgun carry, it might do well to think through how you would secure a firearm.  My thought is that the firearm needs to be rendered safe by doing something that prevents cocking the action, loading the chamber, losing the weapon to simple extraction, or which threatens to render a weapon unsafe for later use, such as by getting dirt on rounds.

I understand a period piece that forwards a character, but why would a person wear something like a semi-automatic pistol to a Faire?  I am from Barrie, Ontario.  I understand that some areas, and some groups of people, of the the US take their right to bear arms rather seriously, but come on.  Just because you can, doesn't mean you should.

Oh, no, this is going to highjack the thread and start a whole new debate.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: escherblacksmith on September 14, 2010, 08:36:44 AM
yeah, before anyone decides to answer that question, we have all sorts of people who do all sorts of things that don't seem to make sense to one person or another.  I won't modify it, but I'm leaving this note here.

The topic is peace-tying(sp), what you do, what can be done, etc.

Thanks!
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Jack Daw at Work on September 16, 2010, 09:17:48 AM
I use leather thongs to peace tie, which is acceptable at TRF.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Stolenhalo6 on October 31, 2010, 12:41:49 AM
There's a lot of talk about peace tieing (sp?) at faire, but I want to remind everyone that depending on what state you live in, your blades need to be secured while being transported to faire.  I've carried a flip open pocket knife in my purse or on my person since I went off to college.  I was recently pulled over for a tail light that was out and the officer saw the blade on my car seat after I dumped out my purse to find my drivers license.  In MN, there's lots of fun laws about how long a blade can be before it's considered a concealed weapon.  Ridiculous as it was, the officer gave me crap for it and insisted on measuring my blade before he'd let me go.  BTW, it is exactly 1/8" shorter than the legal limit for me to be able to carry it without a concealed weapons permit.  I hate to think what would have happend if I had been on my way home from faire and had my dagger in the car...  Most of you faire veterans are probably aware of the transporting rules, but some of the newbies might not be.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DonaCatalina on October 31, 2010, 08:15:48 AM
Quote from: Stolenhalo6 on October 31, 2010, 12:41:49 AM
There's a lot of talk about peace tieing (sp?) at faire, but I want to remind everyone that depending on what state you live in, your blades need to be secured while being transported to faire.  I've carried a flip open pocket knife in my purse or on my person since I went off to college.  I was recently pulled over for a tail light that was out and the officer saw the blade on my car seat after I dumped out my purse to find my drivers license.  In MN, there's lots of fun laws about how long a blade can be before it's considered a concealed weapon.  Ridiculous as it was, the officer gave me crap for it and insisted on measuring my blade before he'd let me go.  BTW, it is exactly 1/8" shorter than the legal limit for me to be able to carry it without a concealed weapons permit.  I hate to think what would have happend if I had been on my way home from faire and had my dagger in the car...  Most of you faire veterans are probably aware of the transporting rules, but some of the newbies might not be.
Good advice, which is why all His Lordship's blades stay in the trunk while travelling, or if we are in the CRV, they are bundled in plain cotton fabric and stowed in the back.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Bolton_Bailiffe on November 16, 2010, 02:23:10 AM
Quote
Good advice, which is why all His Lordship's blades stay in the trunk while travelling, or if we are in the CRV, they are bundled in plain cotton fabric and stowed in the back.

That's sound practise - we're in New Jersey and we always wrap the weapon (swords and occasional arquebus) and then pack it down low.  Never had an issue, but always pays to avoid a rookie policeman or one who's just had a bad day. ;D
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: NecromancerJennyfer on August 12, 2011, 01:27:52 AM

[/quote]
Thanks :) I've been wearing it around the house to get used to it :D
[/quote]

Haha I wear mine around the house because I can't get over how AWESOME it is!  ;D

Also, to all you weapon veterans, I have 2 questions. I just got my first real blade, and was wondering if I can carry one in at the age of 16. On another note, is chaining the scabbard to the hilt considered a peace-tie?

Thanks!
Jennyfer
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Hoowil on August 12, 2011, 05:39:49 PM
Check with the faire, and state authorties, if they have an age requirement. I know more than one faire around here where minors are not allowed to have weapons, to the point where I have seen vendors ask teens to stay out of their shops because they have open blade displays. In California, minors are not allowed to purchase blades, but I carried at a local faire as young as 13.
Most places consider anything that keeps the weapon from being drawn as it being tied. This does not include the snap down straps or hooked stays as they are easily removed. I've seen some require a heavy weight zip tie to be put on at the gate, by a faire gate guard.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: dreamwalker on November 01, 2011, 11:25:35 PM
This year at TRF is my first year carrying weapons, set of daggers. The largers is on a belt and frog system with a "corset holder and a tie further up, both secured by leather lace. Smaller is part of the left arm vambrace also on a corset system plus safet on the hilt. Both daggers in their scabbards also. Ive found out leather lace dosent come undone quickly, so hopefully from what I've heard in here they won't make me do the zip ties thing.

It's funny noone considers walking staffs weapons. If you can clock someone with it, it's a weapon. Many a time I've felt obligated to park my staff at the door with smaller shops and/or those with breakable wears.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: escherblacksmith on November 02, 2011, 08:05:23 AM
I don't think it is quite that way of thinking.  I can't speak for TRF, but other faires are that way because they don't want the drunken public (drunktrons) to get liquored up and draw steel on each other, or pull another persons dagger/sword, whatever (had that one happen to me many years ago).  Oddly enough, I've never seen a drunk pull a staff.

Now, little kids with those wooden swords?  those should be outlawed.

;D
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DonaCatalina on November 02, 2011, 10:10:28 AM
Speaking from his Lordship's experiences at TRF, zip ties are not required. His armaments are secured with a variety of ties from leather to embroidered fabric depending on what he is wearing. The Beefeaters merely check to make sure that it is secured from being pulled easily, exemplia gratia, drunks grabbing at someone else's weapon.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: dreamwalker on November 03, 2011, 12:40:05 AM
Quote from: escherblacksmith on November 02, 2011, 08:05:23 AM
I don't think it is quite that way of thinking.  I can't speak for TRF, but other faires are that way because they don't want the drunken public (drunktrons) to get liquored up and draw steel on each other, or pull another persons dagger/sword, whatever (had that one happen to me many years ago).  Oddly enough, I've never seen a drunk pull a staff.

Now, little kids with those wooden swords?  those should be outlawed.

;D

Yeah, you have to admit adult shins and knee caps are at the ideal height should one of them get any ideas...
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on November 03, 2011, 08:40:39 AM
Yeah, that is why they should require children to be kept in kennels or on a leash.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: nomad on November 03, 2011, 01:31:48 PM
Quote from: dreamwalker on November 03, 2011, 12:40:05 AM
Quote from: escherblacksmith on November 02, 2011, 08:05:23 AM
I don't think it is quite that way of thinking.  I can't speak for TRF, but other faires are that way because they don't want the drunken public (drunktrons) to get liquored up and draw steel on each other, or pull another persons dagger/sword, whatever (had that one happen to me many years ago).  Oddly enough, I've never seen a drunk pull a staff.

Now, little kids with those wooden swords?  those should be outlawed.

;D



Yeah, you have to admit adult shins and knee caps are at the ideal height should one of them get any ideas...

Glad my greaves came in yesterday. *wonders if they'll get tested*
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Merlin the Elder on November 03, 2011, 05:21:56 PM
Quote from: dreamwalker on November 01, 2011, 11:25:35 PM...
It's funny noone considers walking staffs weapons. If you can clock someone with it, it's a weapon. Many a time I've felt obligated to park my staff at the door with smaller shops and/or those with breakable wears.
My staff is about 5½ feet long, and as big around as my wrist—a formidable weapon—but it would be hard to stab someone with it, unlike a dagger or sword.  I did ask the gentleman at the gate at Colorado RF if he needed to peace-tie my staff, and he just gave me a dirty look. Some folks have no sense of humour...
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Adriana Rose on November 08, 2011, 05:53:55 PM
kids with swords *twitch* they can be deadly to the shins. Wich is why I am glad that I wear very full skirts, they pad the blow if it happens... also its fun to carry a wooden sword to fight back. ;D
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: faustinblack on December 01, 2011, 09:58:15 PM
Next year is going to be the first year I'm dressing up, and I'm going to Scarborough Faire. So, anyone know what exactly happens at the gate when your carrying a sword. I'm OCD and I want to make sure I'm prepared. Gracias.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: dreamwalker on December 02, 2011, 02:11:19 AM
It has to have and be in a sheath/scabbard and be tied in such a way that you cannot draw the weapon without undoing the ties. I just used leather lace and the beefeaters at TRF barely looked at my blades, I even asked "hey these alright and stuff?"
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DonaCatalina on December 02, 2011, 04:55:49 AM
Quote from: faustinblack on December 01, 2011, 09:58:15 PM
Next year is going to be the first year I'm dressing up, and I'm going to Scarborough Faire. So, anyone know what exactly happens at the gate when your carrying a sword. I'm OCD and I want to make sure I'm prepared. Gracias.

Come up and say hi if you see us.  :)
Dreamwalker is correct. The hilt must be secured in such a way that the sword cannot be drawn from its scabbard easily. Leather laces, ribbons etc. all work fine.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: faustinblack on December 02, 2011, 02:52:30 PM
I might just do that. :) I was just worried because their website seemed like they were very... Against their patrons carrying weapons. I was feeling a bit discouraged
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Adriana Rose on December 02, 2011, 09:35:55 PM
If you can get a Renaissance Magazine in the faire listings they tell you the weapons policy of the festival. If you cant find one a call to the festival office will answer any questions.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: DonaCatalina on December 03, 2011, 10:24:22 AM
I think most faires try to discourage weapons simply because it increases the liklihood ofan incident. However, the ones that do not ban weapons altogether realize that if they have weapons vendors, patrons are going to carry weapons. The Scots guards at Scarborough's gate will be happy to give you any advice or assitance regarding weapons.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Merlin the Elder on December 03, 2011, 04:37:30 PM
I wish there was a way to peace-tie someone's mouth—nobody here. I hate being around mean-mouthed people.   :-[ Sorry to interrupt...carry on.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: dreamwalker on December 03, 2011, 07:51:21 PM
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on December 03, 2011, 04:37:30 PM
I wish there was a way to peace-tie someone's mouth—nobody here. I hate being around mean-mouthed people.   :-[ Sorry to interrupt...carry on.

I believe that's called duct tape around these parts  ;D
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Glaodian on December 04, 2011, 05:33:38 AM
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on December 03, 2011, 04:37:30 PM
I wish there was a way to peace-tie someone's mouth—nobody here. I hate being around mean-mouthed people.   :-[ Sorry to interrupt...carry on.

Merlin, dont you have a spell for that?   ;D
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Adriana Rose on December 05, 2011, 07:34:22 PM
Merlin isnt that why you carry that big ol' staff?
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Merlin the Elder on December 05, 2011, 09:37:30 PM
Quote from: Adriana Rose on December 05, 2011, 07:34:22 PM
Merlin isnt that why you carry that big ol' staff?
Well, if it were someone besides my mother...  :-\
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: Maithu Ruadh on May 20, 2012, 01:27:48 PM
At the Carolina Renaissance Festival last year, I wore a sword and dirk. They security guy just tied a piece of ribbon around the grips of both, but it didn't secure them in their scabbards at all.
Title: Re: How to Peace Tie Weapons?
Post by: BLAKDUKE on May 20, 2012, 01:39:21 PM
Quote from: Maithu Ruadh on May 20, 2012, 01:27:48 PM
At the Carolina Renaissance Festival last year, I wore a sword and dirk. They security guy just tied a piece of ribbon around the grips of both, but it didn't secure them in their scabbards at all.

Aye, I have seen this done elsewhere and spoken of it here as well.  There are times when you have to ask the security people
"has your head been with you all day today???????"