Your Renaissance Accessories
Whether you're dressing for a medieval wedding or completing your Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA) garb, medieval swords and daggers add just the right finishing touches to an outfit. Yet there are so many different types of weapons that it's sometimes hard to choose. Here is some information that will help you find just what you need.
Swords
When it comes to swords, the options are virtually endless. Whether you're outfitting your SCA armor or finding accessories for pirate costumes, it's important to recognize that some swords are constructed for appearance, while others are forged for combat. In other words, you need to know whether you want a sword that is purely decorative, or one that will be effective in competitions and exhibitions.
Beyond that, there are a number of distinctive sword styles. Scottish Claymore swords, for example, are both heavy and long, and are usually stored in sheaths and carried over the back. The Claymore was initially a straight, double-edged sword featuring a cross hilt with the guards turned downward, but is also the name used for a basket hilt sword with a single edge.
Japanese samurai swords, on the other hand, feature curved blades and grips that are wrapped in silk. Held in lacquered scabbards, both the katana and tachi are long and single-edged, while the wakizashi is a shorter sword.
When it comes to medieval swords, many people prefer legendary swords, designed after those carried by Joan of Arc, Richard the Lionhearted, Robin Hood, and others. Other people are inspired by mythic beings and fantasy warriors, and thus are drawn to fantasy swords, while those who want to be impeccable in their SCA armor choose accurate historical reproductions of swords that can cut through planks.
Daggers
When selecting daggers to complete your costumes, there's a wide variety from which to choose. For example, there are stilettos, which were carried by the upper class in the 17th century, and the main gauche, which was used in the Renaissance as a left-handed weapon to defend oneself and which features an ornate hilt guard. In addition, there are eating daggers, which typically incorporate black antler or white bone handles, and bodice daggers, which are sewn into the bodice or corset. English-style daggers usually have a blade length of about ten inches, and often feature wire-wrapped handles.
Buying Swords and Daggers
When it comes to purchasing swords and daggers, it's best to find a source that has a wealth of experience in Renaissance costumes, pirate costumes, and medieval swords. The best selection and greatest knowledge base can be found online, most likely from a company that specializes in costumes and chivalry sports. There, you will find the best selection at all price points, ranging from economical decorative weaponry to authentic replicas of period pieces. These specialty sites often have a wealth of information, such as a Renaissance Faire finder and links to other resources, that will enable you to get the most enjoyment from your costumes and weaponry.
About the Author
For tips on <a href="http://www.interestinganimals.net/lizard_repellent/lizard_repellent.html">lizard repellent</a>, <a href="http://www.interestinganimals.net/marine_angelfish/marine_angelfish.html">marine angelfish</a> and other information, visit the <a href="http://www.interestinganimals.net">Interesting Animals</a> website.
Using Power Tools 101
The power tools of today are not the same as the ones that were carefully placed on the pegboard near your grandfather's workbench- they are actually quite far from it. Modern technology has made amazing advances in the simplest of features, including automatic shut-off, enhanced guarding and more resilient materials just to name a few. But one trait has come to be worth its weight in gold within the power tool industry, and that's the owner's manual.
Today's manuals not only have better graphics showing its users what each part of the device should look like (and what to do when it doesn't), many individual manufacturers will have explicit directions and instructions for the safety and maintenance of each individual power tool. Of course, no instructions are completely fool proof, especially if the content of such manuals isn't completely understood by the user. This is why many manufacturers have implemented training seminars and classes for both companies and individuals on the proper procedures for optimum performance and safety. Local home improvement stores often hold such classes and seminars on a regular basis.
However, a bit of common sense and know-how never hurt anyone, so there are a few safety guidelines which should be followed by all users of power tools. For example, wearing the proper clothing is essential, and you should never wear loose clothing that could easily get caught in a power tool. Safety gear is crucial- hard hat, safety goggles and gloves, along with the proper footwear. Using the right tool, whether it be size or something else, for the job at hand, including the right type of extension cord (indoor, outdoor, proper length) if applicable. The work area should be clean, uncluttered and well lit. Keep all electric tools away from water and flammables. Do not use power tools with frayed or damaged cords. Damaged parts anywhere in a power tool, including saw blades and drill bits, can cause damage to the tool itself or the individual performing the task. Unplug all electric power tools when finished with or before changing to another tool.
As far as the maintenance aspect of such power tools, common sense is again of the highest importance. For example, making sure that the proper guards are placed on saw blades when not in use is both a safety and maintenance issue. Saw blades need to be sharp to deliver the best performance possible, but can also be incredibly dangerous, so taking the proper preventive measures will yield the best results in all aspects, not just project outcome.
For more information on power tool basics, the U.S. government has many publications that can be of high value to consumers. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers product recall information, and OSHA has a few such publishings regarding both general industry and personal use of power tools.
About the Author
Debbie Johnston recommends Makita power tools from BigScrewdriver. Visit http://bigscrewdriver.com/ for more information.
 Nike Bauer Vapor XXXX Skates Youth 105  US $30.00
|
 Mission T6 Roller Hockey Skates 11 D US $169.99
|
 |
Cuisinart CSB-77 Smart Stick Hand Blender with Whisk and Chopper Attachments List Price: Sale Price: $45.00 You save: $65.00 (59%)  |
 |
J.A. Henckels 7-Slot Knife Storage Roll List Price: Sale Price: $19.95 You save: $17.55 (47%) |
