Basic
Equipment Standards
There are a variety of impressions that
are possible, but here we will examine some of the more prevalent. It is
required that every member’s first priority is the basic clothing of a lower-
to middle-class ‘civilian’: braies; hosen; shirt;
tunic; belt; hood, cap, or other head covering; and shoes. All clothing should be made of the
appropriate materials (Linen or wool) with appropriate patterns and with all
visible stitching hand-sewn. It is best to consult a senior member of Conroi FitzOsbern before you actually purchase or make
anything. ALL ITEMS MUST BE OF AN APPROPRIATE AND DOCUMENTABLE DESIGN,
MATERIAL, AND CONSTRUCTION. The are always exceptions, the main ones being
that so long as an item looks right on the outside (close up while being
handled, NOT 10 feet away) it is acceptable. FOR EXAMPLE, interior seams
may be machine sewn, helmets need not be raised so long as modern welds are
invisible, and shields may be made of plywood so long as all evidence thereof is
covered with linen or leather.
In addition to basic clothing, a member should acquire:
-
An
spear of appropriate design
-
A
kite shield of appropriate design and construction (either plank construction
or, if plywood, covered front and back)
-
A LIVING
HISTORY quality sword (i.e. NOT a reenactment blunt) with appropriate scabbard
and fittings
-
A
mail hauberk of appropriate dimensions.
While riveted mail is not yet required, due to its authenticity and
(more and more) reasonable price it is highly encouraged.
-
A
conical helm w/ nasal of appropriate construction, with an appropriate
liner.
-
Appropriate
set of spurs
-
A
good wool cloak and/or blanket.
-
A
bedroll/mattress of linen to be stuffed with straw for sleeping.
-
Very
basic eating and cookware (wooden bowl, spoon, and drinking vessel of
appropriate design, perhaps a small cooking pot)
-
Personal
sundries are encouraged, such as: coinage, firestarting
equipment, grooming items, a pouch, etc.
-
A bag
(referred to alternately as a pilgrim’s satchel, a scrip, or a
haversack-like-object) in which to carry small personal belongings and rations.
-
If
horse tack and items are to be used, they must be of an appropriate
construction and design.
Members are encouraged to add items to
their impressions, so long as they fit within our milieu and do not become too
much to carry on the march. For example,
bows and arrows, crossbows, etc. of appropriate design and construction are
welcome. At some events, a small tent
for several people might be appropriate.
For the reenactments Conroi
FitzOsbern will take part in, members must also purchase the appropriate
rebated weapons as set down in the NADARA guidelines. However, as we are a living history group
first and a reenactment society second, priority MUST be given to acquiring equipment appropriate for public
interpretation.
Documentation for such items is available
in the articles section; recommended vendors are listed in the links section.
Coming
soon: Documentation and pictures of kit!