Double Core

Double Core - This type of core was originally a true double-core, constructed by laminating two 3/8" diameter circular cross-sectioned solid fiberglass cores together. This time consuming method of construction was eventually abandoned, to be replaced by a 3/4" circular fiberglass core with 2 sides shaved flat, which still carries the double-core name (probably because the size of the core and weight of the resulting weapon are so similar).

This core type produces the most "realistic" feeling weapons. The weapons have flex in the flat-direction, with minimal give in the striking direction, just like a real blade. However, this lack of give must be respected when choosing the amount and type of padding to add to a weapon utilizing double-core construction. Even the main proponents of double-cores concede that normal 2-pound padding is insufficient to prevent the weapons from 'coring' on medium and hard shots. This can be avoided by compositing foams of different density as well as increasing blade width and thickness, trading speed and weight for safety.

Because of the difficulty in building double-core weapons that reliably pass weapons check, they no longer enjoy the popularity they once held. Edhellen still manufactures two-handed weapons utilizing double-cores, but has not offered one-handed varieties for some time. "New" double cores are most likely either full reconstructions of reclaimed cores from old double cores or else, if truly new, products of Daemarth's Duroch Armory. It should be mentioned that because of the hand-made method of shaving down a core, no two cores are the same. Indeed, the width of the resultant core can vary considerably, even for cores shaved on the same day. The wider (and thus stiffer) cores were usually held out to be made into two-handed weapons. Thinner cores or cores with more twist were usually cut in half to be made into broad- and long-swords.

On the modern Belegarth field, heavier weapons are much slower and thus less effective for most styles than their ultra-light competition. While these weapons deliver solid blows that leave little margin for interpretation, the difficulty of their construction (in the process of actually shaving down the core) combined with the difficulty encountered when trying to get one passed and the perceived deficit in their effectiveness make double-cored weapons rare. Whereas as recently as 2001 they were the standard (or at least one of many standards) construction method, now they are seen only rarely, which contributes further to their difficulties in passing weapons check.

Despite their inherent disadvantages, it is likely double-cores will persist in Belegarth for some time. Because the cores are so sturdy, the inevitable increase in flex that occurs with 3/8"- and 1/2"-circular cores does not affect double-cores. For this reason double-core weapons may be rebladed indefinitely. Often though, the owner has a double-core semi-retired by making a mace or hammer with thicker and wider padding than a sword.

Indeed, weapon checking standards ebb and flow with time, and there will always be some checkers that will be willing to give double-core weapons a fair chance, whereas it is not unheard of for even experienced weapon checkers to fail these weapons based only on their construction method. In some regions of the midwest double-cores are enjoying a resurgence due to cult-like worship of their technology, and its inherent power. Whether these small bands of traditionalists can stand against the tide of the masses who would prefer to see double-cores wiped out remains to be seen.

Fun Facts:

-The Uruk-Hai were awarded 7 matching Double-Core Broadswords by Henneth-Annun, for their valor in the Uruk-Hai vs. Henneth-Annun.

-The original prototypes for the new shaved double-core was actually shaved on all 4-sides, producing a true rectangular cross-section, and was constructed in Daemarth and Angmarth's father's workshop.

-Arnor and Riverbend -- both St.Louis area realms -- probably have more double cores on the field for any given week than any other realm in the nation.

-Famous fighters who are proponents of double-cores:

 -V-Hil
 -Kenneth
 -Henneth-Annun
 -Khanda
 -Angmarth