One of the advantages of such a long layoff from SCA
fighting is that I can almost start from scratch, armour kit wise, using the
research and information I’ve picked up over the years. The problem is I have research ADD. I will be cruising along, digging Post-Roman
Britain in all its Misty Avalonian goodness and then I’ll see a special on
William Marshal. Next thing you know I’m all surcote and troubadours. Then I go to a Viking festival and I want a
round shield. Focus, I has none. Not a big deal to many people, but I believe a
cohesive appearance, on the field and off is part of being an exemplary SCA
combatant.
Still, I think if I do a little self-assessment, I come down
on the side of the surcote, at least for tourney gear. When I think of the medieval fighting man, I
see someone in a surcote with a heater shield.
Banners snapping in the wind, parti-coloured arming tents. One of my
favourite weapon styles back when I was a semi-badass was bastard sword, which
is sorta the iconic High Middle Ages weapon. Many armour sins can be hidden by
a surcote. Of course, this means I have
to get off my duff and register some heraldry!
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