Armoured Combat
Probably some of the most iconic images of the Society for Creative Anachronism have involved armoured combatants in full-face helmets and armour, their personal heraldry painted large on their shields.
Armoured combat requires armour, but instead of steel weapons, the weapons are usually made from rattan. Combat itself uses a scoring system based on honour and chivalry; the fighters declare a blow they receive “good” themselves, based on the angle, location, and force of the strike.
Armoured combat uses rattan to mimic various forms of medieval weapons including short swords (in the photos above and below) and longswords (right), as well as daggers, pole arms and spears.
Combatants must wear a full-face helm, and armour their neck, joints, hands, fore arms and other vital areas, though more coverage is recommended as this is a full contact sport.
Some combatants wear medieval-style armour (e.g. the mail, plate metal and leather armour in the photo above, or the lamellar plate to the right) others use modern materials and cover them (e.g. in the photo below where the fighter has adapted modern protection for their torso and covered it with a colourful surcoat).
Bouts are overseen by Heavy marshals, and all fighters must attend to their instructions at all times. It is the duty of the marshals to ensure all armour and weaponry are safe to use and meet society standards.
All genders are welcome to take part in Armoured Combat. The Flintheath fighting community is diverse and proud of it!
Armoured combat is not suitable for children under 16.
If you'd like to try out Armoured Combat at one of our practices, get in touch! We have loaner armour for most body types. You should wear closed toe shoes and bring your own groin protection if your anatomy requires it.