[MR] The Cost to armor a New fighter?

[chagankhulan at clan-whitewing.org]

    Off hand I'd be inclined to say there isn't really a single, concise
answer to this question.  You have everything from "Iron Key" loaner
armor which can be borrowed from some groups and all you cover is
upkeep, to various "do-it-yourself-with help", starter sets, E-bay or
taking a serious trip through the various armories with (hopefully) a
knowledgable person to help you with advice, etc.  In other words -
your financial situation is your guide to what you can or cannot
acquire.
    I'm assuming this fighter being referred to is already authorized,
thus sure they need this armor as opposed to an interested person who
is trying to decide if they want to pursue SCA fighting or not.  My
folks tend to try and keep any safe and usable excess armor around to
loan to interested potential fighters or folks who are short on cash
but are ready to get into armor and hit the battlefield.
     The ony caveat to all this is "price does not guarantee quality".  If
the fighter isn't well versed in the things to look for in quality
armor - don't let them shop alone!!!
     Do other groups have an "Iron Key" - new, basic,loaner armor or
hand-me-down armor that's still safe to use or "do-it-yourself"
sessions where they do the work - under supervision - but only pay
for the materials?  That might be a way to get these fighters on the
field quickly and in decent, safe gear. The helmet is still the big
ticket item but even those can be refitted for short term use.

Chagan



>   This question came up tonight.  Is it possible to armor a new
> fighter for  close to $200.00?  My view is that the Helm alone would
> cost about that much?   In the past I have been wrong, but I don't
> think it could be done safely.  If it could be done, where can I get
> the information.
>
>
> Achbar
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