[Ansteorra] Re: siloflex problem

[Carl Chipman]

I too have never seen this, having made several siloflex swords for use
and for pell work.  While I've never tried the blow dryer method (good
idea though) if you just shave the rattan enough to get it in, the
surface friction will be enough.  If you overshave it, then I see how it
could fling out upon wielding.

Jean Paul de Sens


Carl Chipman
Nomadics, Inc.
cchipman at nomadics.com
http://www.nomadics.com


-----Original Message-----
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[mailto:ansteorra-admin at ansteorra.org] On Behalf Of Ed Shelton
Sent: Sunday, May 11, 2003 12:02 AM
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Subject: [Ansteorra] Re: siloflex problem

I have been using siloflex swords for years and have never experienced
the
problem you describe.  However, my method of construction is probably
different than the swords with which you have had trouble.

I take a sword length stick of rattan that is 1 1/16 to 1 1/4 inches in
outside diameter.  The siloflex having an inside diameter of 1 inch.  I
then
place the siloflex in a 3" PVC sewer pipe of suitable length and put a
hair
dryer set on hot in the end of the pipe.  I let the hair dryer heat the
siloflex for a few minutes and then remove the siloflex and insert the
rattan into it using a 3 lb. deadblow mallet.  After driving the rattan
in a
few inches, I then place the rattan and siloflex back into the PVC
"oven" so
that the next few inches of siloflex that the rattan hasn't reached yet
is
ready for reheating and turn on the hair dryer again.  After a few
minutes
of heating, I remove both and drive the rattan further into the
siloflex.  I
repeat this procedure until the entire rattan stave is sheathed in the
siloflex.  When the siloflex cools it shrinks completely onto the rattan
and
is irremovable by anything save cutting it off with a very sharp knife.
I
trim the excess siloflex and carve a grip making sure to leave at least
one
strip of siloflex the entire length of grip and blade.

My blades are massive enough to give a good solid feel to the blows
struck
since the rattan core is almost a legal sword on its own and will last
almost indefinitely.

I would be happy to demonstrate this technique if anyone is interested
is
seeing it.

Yours in service,

Giotto
Coastal Regional Knight Marshal

>We have encountered a problem with siloflex tubes. It seems that under
the
>right conditions the rattan can launch out of the tube like a missle.
Be
>warned: this is incredibly hazardous!I have sent all pertinent
information
>to the Earl Marshall and await his decision on the matter.There will be
a
>temporary ban on all siloflex swords on any official combat field in
>Seawinds until the Earl Marshal can resolve this safety issue.
>

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