Construction of Kern darts -- myArmoury.com

Neal Matheson · Posted: Wed 16 Dec, 2015 9:21 am Post subject: Construction of Kern darts

Hi, I know this subject has come up before but not I think in this detail. I am planning on making a few more darts and having a good go at getting a bit more proficient with them. I am wondering if there are any extant examples or detailed descriptions. I am planning on using javelin heads, hazel and ash cut in the round rather than split from planks and duck or goose feathers. As semi disposable weapons I would have thought that the darts would be made to a less exacting finish than spears polearms etc.
Thanks in advance.
Neal

Sean Flynt · Posted: Wed 16 Dec, 2015 10:22 am Post subject:

Have you seen this latest discussion of javelins? https://myArmoury.com/talk/viewtopic.php?p=261011

I've been part of these discussions, and don't have much new to offer. I think that if you treat these like a giant arrows, you'll arrive at the appropriate level of finish and detail. As you say, they're essentially disposable.

A few notes:
• Look at the continental "lancegay" for depictions that might help develop the Irish version.
• Consider the details of the Mary Rose darts in the thread linked above. Those were huge (almost more for dropping than throwing) but might give you some ideas.
• I had amazing success with turkey feathers, poplar dowel, a finger loop and a .45 casing or medieval arrowhead on the tip. Even after the flights are bent and ragged, they do a wonderful job of keeping the javelin straight. It's pretty much effortless.
• I've seen pretty much every typical arrow shaft profile reflected in javelins--barreled, tapered tail to tip, straight, etc.
• I still want to try wood flights on a hardwood tool handle. The kind with a metal, male-threaded tip should provide enough weight at the tip to give you a good idea of performance before you invest in a proper head. When/if I get to this project, I'll try the Windlass javelin heads or find something similar at KOA or Ebay.

Sean Flynt · Posted: Wed 16 Dec, 2015 10:27 am Post subject:

From that other thread. This is one the most helpful images I've seen.

Neal Matheson · Posted: Wed 16 Dec, 2015 11:50 am Post subject:

That's great thanks Sean. I think I had seen that thread, I'll have a more detailed look.