[Ansteorra] Rapier Armor Question

[Stephanie Wilson]

Lady Katrine la Esclopiera asked:
> how many layers must the hood be?

According to the Ansteorra Complete Participants Handbook, January 2008
Revision, Section 3 - Rapier Combat, pp. 24-26 Protective Gear, in addition
to a fencing mask or helm, the head and neck must be covered by at least
puncture resistant material. 

http://marshal.ansteorra.org/armored/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&
id=12&Itemid=26

Therefore, fencing hoods must be made of enough layers to be puncture
resistant.

In my experience, the number of layers of linen required to pass a punch or
drop test varies depending on the size and strength of the threads in the
fabric as well as the evenness and tightness of the weave. A common
misconception about linen is that heavier weight linen is stronger. I have
seen two layers of 3.5 oz/yd handkerchief weight linen pass a punch test.
Conversely, I have seen four layers of 8 oz/yd canvas weight linen fail a
punch test. Often, heavier weight linen is woven from thicker threads with a
fairly loose weave, whereas medium and light weight linen tends to be woven
from thinner threads and a tighter weave.

How do you know what to use? Have your local rapier marshall punch test the
fabric you intend to use for rapier armor, or ask a reliable source for a
recommendation on vendors and fabrics. I personally have found that two
layers of 5.3 oz/yd linen from www.fabrics-store.com (IL019) will reliably
pass a punch test, therefore I use three layers of this weight of linen in
my fencing hoods for an additional margin of safety. 

Note: A significant part of my business is making rapier armor for people in
the SCA, particularly fencing hoods. No, this isn't a plug for my business.
I'm just trying to establish my credibility as someone who has had a LOT of
linen punch tested and made a LOT of fencing hoods.

Best regards,

HL Anne Barrington
Barony of the Stargate
Kingdom of Ansteorra