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Neal Matheson
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Posted: Wed 16 Dec, 2015 9:21 am Post subject: Construction of Kern darts |
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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
http://www.seeknottheancestors.com/
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Sean Flynt
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Posted: Wed 16 Dec, 2015 10:22 am Post subject: |
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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.
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-Sean
Author of the Little Hammer novel
https://www.amazon.com/Little-Hammer-Sean-Flynt/dp/B08XN7HZ82/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=little+hammer+book&qid=1627482034&sr=8-1
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Sean Flynt
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Neal Matheson
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