Boffer Specifications and Creation

Cloth, Latex, or Duct Tape?

Most weapons at Shadow Accord are latex weapons. These look nice. Good looking weapons help with immersion, just like good costumes and props.

Cloth covered boffers are primarily used for natural weapons like claws, tentacles, or fists. A basic description of how to build cloth covered boffers is available below.

Duct Tape weapons are not allowed. The Duct tape adds weight and stiffness to a weapon that may cause stinging to anyone hit with one. Also, they generally do not look all that good and can detract from immersion.

Weapon Specifications

Boffer Weapons

Length:

• Fist: 12 in. striking surface
• Claws: 20-24 in. striking surface
• Tentacles: 26-30 in. striking surface
• Maximum length for all weapons: 72 inches

Cores:

• Fiberglass style kite spar or graphite/carbon fiber style kite spar are to be used in all weapon construction.
• PVC is not an acceptable core material and is no longer allowed at game for PC weapons or weapons donated to Shadow Accord.

Exterior:

• Latex or cloth covers for the outer layer of all weapons.
• Latex weapons must have be sealed with silicon sealant (some players are allergic to latex).
• Fist: Must be black.
• Claws: Must be black with a white/silver claw mark.
• Tentacles: Must be black with a white/silver tentacle mark.

Construction:

• Foam must be glued and secured to the entire length of the core.
• Tip must be padded to prevent the core from stabbing through.
• Latex weapons are recommended to include additional tip security, such as vinyl tubing between the hard core and the foam at the tip.
• Pommels are required for weapons donated to Shadow Accord.
• Tape may be used during construction of the core to cover the tip to prevent it from puncturing foam.
• Tape of any kind is not acceptable for use in securing the core to the boffer or used as the outer layer of the foam (e.g., duct tape weapons).

Ranged Weapons

• Max limit 35 lbs with store bought LARP-safe arrows.
• No homemade arrows will be considered.
• Safety has the final say as to if the bow/crossbow is suited for game.

Weapon Checks

• All weapons must be checked each game prior to use.
• Weapons will be checked during the check in process by Safety, a Head of Staff, Executive Officer or the Deco Weapon Specialist.

Additional information on weapons can be found in the rules.