Using Latex to make padded weapons instead of tape

[JeanryChandler]

I don't think anybody saw this last time I posted it because it was buried in a thread about thanksgiving... so I'm posting it again!

Basically, to the extent that anyone is still interested in using padded weapons for sparring as opposed to wasters, blunts, or aluminium mockups, I have seen the future, and it is latex.

http://bellsouthpwp.net/d/e/deodand23/latex/latex.htm

[Guest]

I'm not sure latex is the solution - it wears and tears easier, and unless it is dabbed with talcum powder, it will catch on other latex weapons.

[JeanryChandler]

I think that may depend on the varnish you use, this "Liquitex" stuff I'm using seems to take away all the tackyness or stickyness from the latex and with the exception of punctures from sharp pointy things (like my cats claws) the three swords I've now made so far seem to be holding up quite well. You have to use a lot of the varnish though, and it's pretty expensive.

I wrote up that website about a month ago and since then I've made a couple more swords and we have been using them, they haven't been sticking and none have torn except one that my cat partially mutilated, and he managed to tear holes in my leather jacket too.

Another thing I like about the latex weapons is that they seem much softer on impact than the duct tape ones I make. I don't know if y'all make them differently, from the way they are compared to wooden wasters, but mine (duct tape) are flat and tight and hurt a lot and are definately too dangerous to use without a helmet. The latex weapons are at least twice as soft.

I'll keep working with these and I'll send some update reports to the forum here how they hold up over the next couple of months. I've heard there can be problems with UV. So far they are holding up well though.

JR

[Mike Cartier]

i look forward to trying these out, they look good.

[Guest]

Having worked in the special effects industry, I can also say that latex had the disturbing property of deteriorating under UV light. Padded weapons have their place but i prefer using wooden wasters or rattan because they make you more cautious and aware of defense when there is more at stake.

If you are intent on using padded weapons however, Actionflex has a wonderful line of weapons. They are well worth the money and last a long time.