Why a Pre-Combat Check is Important
A thorough check before starting a mock combat is essential to prevent accidents and injuries. Even battle-ready weapons and solid armor can become damaged through wear, transport, or previous use.
Also, when an event works with safety marshals, you remain always personally responsible for the safety of your own gear and that of your opponents.
Armor Check
Check your armor carefully before you enter combat.
Pay attention to the following points:
All belts, buckles and fastenings must be properly secured, close correctly, and must not be worn or torn.
The different armor pieces must fit together well and must not dangerously restrict your freedom of movement.
Check that there are no sharp edges, burrs, or protruding parts that could injure you or others.
Make sure the armor is free from serious rusting or deep dents that compromise its strength.
With mail, it's important that all rings are closed and intact and don't come loose, open up, or catch on each other.
Weapons Check
Weapons must also be thoroughly checked before each mock combat.
Pay attention to:
The cutting edges must be blunt and the point must be dull and safely finished.
The weapon must be free of burrs, cracks, and rust.
All components, such as crossguard, grip, and pommel, must be firmly attached and must not move.
With weapons that have a shaft, it must be firmly and safely secured, without play or cracks in the wood.
Arrows and Projectiles
When arrows or other projectiles are used during mock combat, additional points of attention apply.
Make sure that you:
Know where, when, and how projectiles are allowed to be fired.
Are familiar with the agreements about aiming at people or specifically not.
Are aware of the maximum allowed poundage, which can vary per event or combat.
Only use projectiles that are explicitly approved for mock combat.
Rules and Agreements
In addition to the physical inspection of your gear, it's important that you:
Know all rules and safety agreements that apply before, during, and after mock combat.
Know which techniques are allowed and which are not.
Make clear agreements about stop signals and emergency situations.
Summary
A pre-combat check ensures safe and responsible execution. By carefully inspecting armor, weapons, and any projectiles, and by knowing the applicable rules, you reduce the risk of injury and contribute to a controlled and respectful mock combat.
