What is Dagorhir? An easy question to ask. A difficult question to answer.

Dragorhir is a group of individuals of age 15 and up, who enjoy improvisational characterization in a medieval setting. This medieval setting includes costumes, characterization, character history, medieval-style warfare and medieval social activities. Dagorhir activities usually take place outdoors and aspects of the game are explained in this handbook.

In 1975, an actor-artist college freshman named Bryyn Wiese [Crinan MacBrood] read JRR Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. Tolkien’s book inspired Wiese to combine his new-found interest in fantasy with his love of the outdoors, improvisational acting and high energy events. This combination planted a seed which blossomed into an idea. The idea was to catapult people from the 20^th century into the midst of an intense battle during the Middle Ages; a time when the values and problems of the modern world did not exist.

Wiese discussed the idea at length with his girlfriend, Mary Dugan [Edaina], his roommate, Gus Hathaway [Rolling Thunder] and a close friend, Jum Murch [Galarast]. With their input the game started to take shape.

On October 29, 1977, a prototype battle was held at Riggs Farm in Montgomery County, Maryland. Everyone enjoyed it, but most importantly it gave Wiese a chance to see what would and would not work. In June 1978. He placed an advertisement on the Washington DC college radio station, WGTB-FM, calling for people who would like to be involved in this type of medieval event. Calls began to come in and the newly formed group of Dagorhir was on its way. Dagorhir [pronounced dagger-here] is taken from the Elvish language created by JRR Tolkien for the Silmarillion. In English, Dagorhir would roughly translate as "Battlelords".

Since the first battles the game has changed considerably and will continue to change in order to improve and meed new demands. There are now many branches of Dagorhir Stretching across the country.

Thanks to the following parties for making this book possible - Pentwyvern, Aratari, Dur Demarion, Spanky, Boromor, Ron R., Dagorhir National, Duane, The Mike Brigade, Jerry Spangler, Ed Ritty, Craig, Moshi, and No One Important.

Very Special Thanks to J.R. Bob Dobbs for telling Jerry Spangler and Ed Ritty that it was OK to take this long to finish.

1: DAGORHIR BASICS

Welcome to Dagorhir Kingdom of Avalon; within this handbook you will find the rules for the central and southern Ohio chapter of Dagorhir. These rules are based on the original Dagorhir rules established in 1977. As a group, we have modified these rules to suit our needs. Dagorhir Kingdom of Avalon has existed in Ohio since 1989, when it originated in Akron.

This handbook is for Dagorhir Kingdom of Avalon and is for the inexperienced and experienced participants, alike. Read this book before participating in any Dagorhir battles. Other regions have different house rules. Consider all rules in this handbook to be the house rules of Dagorhir Kingdom of Avalon. Tournament rules will be stated prior to events. It there are ever any questions, please feel free to ask. Please enjoy yourself, and be aware of others.

Reasons to participate in Dagorhir are simple. The most important reason is because it is fun. Other reasons include:

Dagorhir is a chance to momentarily act out your character, and make merry with friends. Escaping from everyday hassles for a few hours can be very relaxing. Dagorhir promotes controlled and constructive physical force and provides a safe and healthy way to vent pent-up frustrations and release tension. Accidents may happen but we try to minimize such occurrences by strict enforcement of all Dagorhir safety regulations.

Participation in Dagorhir provides members with the opportunity to learn about teamwork. Individuals may participate in a unit on the battlefield, while others will work together preparing a feast for fifty people. Dagorhir provides a chance to interact with people on a casual level both on and off the battlefield.

Sometimes these last two steps will be skipped at the Heralds discretion to speed check-in. Weapons which have no visible classification should not be used until presented to one of the Heralds for testing.

A Herald may disallow any weapon at anytime. If you are ever hit by a weapon you feel may be unsafe, as a Herald to check the weapon. Continued use of any weapon decided unsafe by a weapons check or a Herald, will result in the disappearance of the unsafe weapon.

If a weapon fails check-in, then remove it from the battlefield and sidelines. Place weapons that are not going to be repaired immediately in the trunk of a car. If there is no place else to put your weapon that will make it inaccessible, then place it somewhere which removes it from sight. Any weapon which fails a weapons check or breaks during combat, may be repaired and given to a Herald for weapons check.

At any point during a Dagorhir battlegame, the word "HOLD" is yelled by anyone, particularly the Herald:

STOP! What you are doing;

STAY! Where you are, and;

DROP! To one knee.

PUT! Your weapon over your head;

RESOUND the call to cease combat, by saying "HOLD" aloud.

Any and all hits taken after the hold is called are ignored. No movements should be made by anyone unless they are endangered, injured or assisting. All other talking should cease so any potential threat can be assessed. (Anyone with medical training should tell the Heralds and have free movement during a hold.)

If at any point you feel endangered or are injured or see someone endangered or injured call a "HOLD." If you are just rattled then die and rest before seeking help or the water jug. During certain battles calling a personal hold will be treated as a death.

A "HOLD" ends when a Herald calls "RESUME!" which is where you stand and regain positions and then, as normal, "LAY ON!"

LEGS From ankle to hip. [Ankle counts as leg.]

ARMS From wrist to shoulder joint [Wrist counts as arm.]

NON AFFECTED Hands & Feet.

OFF-LIMITS Head & neck [From the top of the sternum up.]

When you hit someone in an off-limits striking zone, you must do ten push-ups or ten sit-ups. No "Hold" is to be called, the two parties involved are effectively out of combat. You may not be killed while actively performing these exercises or regaining your feet. You will be allowed to regain your footing and weapons after finishing. The party receiving the off-limits hit may choose to "run away" but by doing so re-enters combat. Additionally you may choose to die and leave the field for giving someone a "head shot" instead of doing the exercises. In some battles a "head shot" is automatic death for both warriors.

Strike your opponents hard, so they can feel it; if they do not take the hit, strike harder or more accurately, however, there is not such thing as a light hit since all hits count. Never intentionally hurt anyone or strike an off-limits area. A warrior who does not demonstrate control with weapons will be asked to leave the battlefield until a Herald feels they have demonstrated weapon control. An intentional strike to an off-limits area will mean expulsion for a period of no less than two months. A second such offense will mean permanent expulsion and your name will be circulated to other medieval groups and the like.

When you lose an arm; drop what is in the hand and put the arm behind you. Do not use the arm for balance or running. When you lose a leg, kneel on the dead leg. You cannot hop or limp on that leg. You can make a lunge from your good leg. Warriors with injured legs may be assisted by a warrior with both legs. The wounded warrior must be touching the other warrior’s shoulder and must drop to the ground if contact is broken for any reason. Two wounded warriors may not lead against each other to walk.

DAMAGE: Check the Quick Reference Table

STRIKES

• Weapons must strike with full force, unless the strike is a courtesy shot.
• When a weapon strikes a limb, lose the limb.
• When two limbs are lost, you are dead.
• When a weapon strikes your torso, you must die.
• When an arm is lost, scream, drop what is in your hand & place the arm behind your back.
• When a leg is lost, scream, drop to that knee & keep your good leg up.
• When you scream; if someone asks if you are okay, then you have done it correctly.
• Any hit to a dead arm [one that has been hacked off] counts as a torso strike.
• Dead legs can be hit repeatedly as long as the knee is on the ground.
• A hit to a dead leg on a leaping or assisted warrior counts as the other leg and means death.

STABS

• Stabs to the torso mean death.
• Stabs to a limb make it useless but it can still be hacked off.
• When stabbed in the arm, let the arm go limp and drop what is in the hand.
• When stabbed in the leg, drop to that knee and keep the good leg up.
• Multiple stabs to a stabbed arm or leg do no additional damage.
• All limbs may be stabbed without death, you cannot crawl, flip, or roll. All you can do is hope someone will kill you. Beg and plead and maybe someone will have mercy.

ARROWS

• Arrows must be fired to count as stabs and can legally hit the head and neck. Do not aim for these locations, particularly at close range.
• If the flight path of the arrow is disturbed, you are hit, even if its clothing or a weapon that caused the disruption.
• Arrows are never used as handheld weapons and may not be used to block.
• The padded head of an arrow must be at least two inched in diameter.
• Arrow shafts must be marked with tape twenty eight inches from the unpadded end.
• You may not draw the arrow past the twenty eight inch mark.

(See the archery section for further details.)

ROCKS

• Rocks only kill when they are thrown and hit in the head or neck.
• If the flight path of the rock is disturbed, you are hit, even if it’s clothing.
• Rocks must be 3 to 7 inches in diameter.
• Rocks are never used as handheld weapons and may not be used to block.

JAVELINS

• Thrown javelins count as stabs and can legally hit the head and neck. Do not aim for these locations, particularly at close range.
• If the javelin is being used as a spear, then it may not strike the head or neck. Only the javelin’s owner may use the javelin as a spear.
• Thrown javelins may be caught behind the javelin point or knocked out of the air.

FLAILS

• Flail chains must be between 2 and 6 inches in length.
• Flail handles must be at least 6 inches in length.
• Flails may have two heads in tandem but there may no be more than 6 inches of total chain. Tandem heads may not exceed more than 8 inches in diameter.
• Flails may have up to three heads on separate chains, however none of the chains can exceed 4 inches in length.
• Flail heads must have a diameter of no less than six inches.

SWORDS

• No sword may be over 6 feet in total length.
• No sword may have over 15 in. of hand grip length.
• No sword may have under 12 in. of blade length.
• All sword pommels must be greater than 2.5 in. In diameter.
• All swords must either weigh not less than 12 oz. or have over 3 in. of blade depth.
• All single swords must be back padded for a casual strike.
• All single swords must have at least 8 in. of silver duct tape signifying the back or non striking surface.

POLEARMS

• No polearm may have a length less than 4 feet or greater than 10 feet.
• No polearm may have more than 22 inches of unpadded hand grip, at least one third of a Polearms haft must be casual strike padded.
• All Polearms must have not less than 14 in. of striking surface.

Archery is one of the most potentially hazardous areas of Dagorhir combat and as such has very strict rules. Before anyone may be an archer they must have their own bow. The bow must be of 35 lb. pull or less at 28 in. with 25 lb. being the best. All bows will be tested to 35 lb. At 28 in. no exceptions. No arrows of length greater than 28 in. will be allowed. No arrow may be shot within 10 feet of an opponent.

No one may be an archer until they have trained for a period of time under a Dagorhir archer. The archer-in-training will be taught by the Dagorhir archer for usually 6-12 training sessions. Part of this training will be devoted to arrow construction and arrow safety. The archer-in-training will graduate when the Dagorhir archer and the heralds feels they are proficient. Archers-in-training who graduate will have their status indicated on their membership records. Graduates become Dagorhir archers and may teach new archers. Bows and arrows are not to be used by any archer other than the owner without express permission. You may return fire with someone else’s arrows. Bows may be used to block any one attack. After blocking one attack of any kind, the bow is considered broken.

• Arrows must be shot; they can never be used as handheld weapons. At close range, arrows are shot at half draw or less.
• Arrows penetrate any type of armour on the first shot. [A shield or plate helmet will stop any arrow, rock or javelin.]
• Arrows cannot be caught, blocked, deflected or knocked out of the air by anything else. [If an arrow is blocked intentionally by anything other than a shield, the blocker is dead, automatically.]
• Arrows may hit in the head & neck. Do not aim for these locations.
• If an arrow’s flight path deflects at all while passing you, then you are hit. [Provided another warrior has not already deflected it.]
• If an arrow accidentally hits a wielded-weapon in front of the torso, the weapon holder is dead.
• If an arrow accidentally a wielded weapon held out to one side, drop on hand off of that weapon (this means dropping a weapon that is held with only one hand).

We believe in padding the weapons, not the participants. For this reason you do not have to wear armour to participate in Dagorhir combat. Armour will be judged on a case-by-case basis to determine its value in Dagorhir combat. Regardless of the armour construction, the armour must be safe to be allowed on the field. There are three Dagorhir Avalon armour classifications:

• LEATHER - Any 9 to 10 ounce leather, overlapping pieces of thinner leather, padded, leather or studded leather.
• MAIL - This includes any armour composed of small plates or rings of metal.

16 gauge - ¹/₄ inch rings or links

14 gauge - ³/₈ inch rings or links

12 gauge - ½ inch rings or links

Other gauges and sizes must be approved by a Herald.

- Plate helmets being worn will stop all arrows, rocks and javelins.

Chain or leather armour protects against one blue hit to any armoured location.

Plate armour protects against two blue hits to any armoured location.

• Armour may not be hidden under costuming
• Armour only protects the surface it covers and may not be layered; such as plate over chain for three blue hit strength.
• Armour must be of authentic style and design.
• People wearing armour may not initiate a grapple.
• Armour will not protect against a two-handed green stab; the stabbing weapon must be coded.
• Non-leather armour will protect a warrior from a green strike, even a damaged warrior.
• Armour will not protect against arrows or javelins.
• Armour will protect the head from all strikes.

You may wish to wear a cup, athletic supporter, athletic bra, knee pads, elbow pads or helmet. Safety equipment does not count as armour but is allowed. Kidney belts and weight lifting belts may count as armour as long as they are combined with other full armour. Leather pouches, boots, and weapon sheaths do not count as armour.

Shields may be punched and grabbed. Shield bashing is legal but not from behind or with the intent to injure. If you own a shield, then you should expect it to be knocked into your face and chest.

• Two, hard, two-handed strikes from a red weapon destroy a shield. A weapon must be color coded with red tape and must be used two-handed to be able to destroy a shield. A third hit to a destroyed shield cuts the arm and the fourth strikes the torso.
• Shields should be removed as quickly as possible after they are destroyed. No one has to wait for you to remove the shield from your arm.
• Shields may be used to block all types of attacks and missile weapons.
• Shields must be padded as safely as any weapon. Be certain the shield cannot hurt you or anyone else.
• Shields must be covered and should have a design or insignia painted on them.
• Shields must be at least 12 inches in diameter or height and width.
• Shields may not exceed the distance between your ankle and shoulder in height or width. Round shields may not exceed 3 feet in diameter.
• Square shields must have slightly rounded corners.
• Shields must be worn within three inches of the wrist, they may not be worn as protection on any part of the body other than the forearm.
• No person may use more than on shield at a time.

(Note: insert page entitled "Quick Reference Chart" after this page and before page that starts out "Courtesy Shots")

Courtesy blows are to prevent unnecessary brutality when striking from behind. If you have a clear shot at someone’s back you should give a courtesy shot. When striking someone from behind, strike lightly and say "courtesy." Call out the weapon color when striking someone in armour. A "courtesy blow" basically means, "I could have pounded you into the ground, but I did not want to hurt you."

Courtesy blows automatically hit, if they are not defended against. Delivery of a courtesy blow must be with obvious advantage, with the opportunity to strike with full force and from behind the victim. Weapon type must still be appropriate to do damage; such as a single handed green thrust versus armour is no appropriate.

Any non-arrow weapon may be blocked or parried. Blocking is accomplished by using a weapon or shield to stop the attack. If the weapon hits anyway, you are hit. If a blow strikes a sheathed weapon, you are hit anyway. The weapon must be in your hand to block.

Some warriors sacrifice limbs to defeat enemies. This may be done, but if they use a non-affected area to block or catch a strike, then the associated limb is considered to be hacked off. The block or parry must be intentionally done with an empty hand or foot. Flail chains, spear shafts, sword hilts, shields and axe/hammer hafts may be grabbed, but stopping a weapon strike’s killing surface with a hand or foot means automatic loss of the arm or leg. Sometimes "flats" of blades and hafts will hit; flats and hafts do no damage.

Holding a weapon flat against your body or holding a weapon in your hand without moving it to block is called ANVILLING and is not allowed. Any attack that hits an ANVILLED weapon automatically hits.

Do not use someone else’s weapons, armour, shields or personal belongings without express permission from the owner. This includes drinking water, duct tape, spray glue, etc. Some people have special relationships with their weapons and some weapons are unsafe if in the hands of someone who does not know how to use them.

If you own personal weapons do not fear telling someone to put them down. If you do not have weapons do not feat asking if you can use someone’s weapons. Treat others with respect and expect respect in return; abuse someone and expect abuse.

Healers can turn the tides of battle and have the ability to off-balance the entire game. For these reasons healers have strict governing laws. In order to become a Healer a member must submit a written 180-syllable poem which will be approved by a Chairman and a Red Cross First Aid Certification. All poems are judged on a case-by-case basis and must pertain to healing. The poem must be memorized by the fifth day of use. Regardless of rationale for the healing ability all healers have the same "powers":

• A healing poem of at least 180 syllables that must be memorized by the fifth day of use. Healing poems must be non-repetitive & pertaining to healing.
• A healer can only fight with one blue/green weapon or less.
• A healer can heal any wound [save death] by continuously touching the victim and saying aloud the healing poem. If contact is broken the healing is null & void.
• A healer can heal bows, shields and armour. One item is healed per reading of the poem. [Items must still be safe for combat.]
• A healer can heal any person or item only once per field battle. [Healers are not used in cutthroats, circles, or certain other battles.]
• A healer cannot heal him/herself.
• A healer cannot move more than a slow walk while healing.

These rules may be varied for specific battles, such as Valhalla battles.

No, the healing poem cannot be read backwards or forwards with the intention of "damaging" anyone. This is not an aspect of Dagorhir role-playing.

No kind of "magic" other than healing is part of the Dagorhir system of role-playing.

SAMPLE HEALING POEM:

Child of Valor, Bairn of Battle at my feet you lie.

Runes to trace and spells to cast as fallen comrades die.

Armour rent and mail torn by weapons caked in fore.

Those whom fight like snarling wolves and razor-tusked boar.

Cloven helm and severed limb, the battle axe as hewn.

Bodies sprouting feathered shafts about the field are strewn.

Carrion fowl and battle raven circle overhead.

With taloned claws and beaks to pick the bones of valiant warrior dead.

Child of Valor, Bairn of Battle harm has come your way.

Blood of Bravery be renewed to fight another day.

Sword of Arthur, Hammer of Thor, silver shield and spear.

Rise and wield your weapon now against the danger near.

Fang of cobra, bit of spider, heat of Dragon flame.

Valiant warrior again do rise and go back from whence yea came.

Fey the Healer and Zeo are with the red team. Fist, another of Fey’s teammates, is injured. Fist has an arrow wound in his leg and his left arm is gone. Fey the Healer kneels beside Fist and recites his healing poem of 180 syllables. Fist must decide which wound to heal and he picks the leg-wound since mobility is his strong point. Fist reenters combat against the blue team.

Fey the Healer see a poor soul with a stabbed leg and the other leg gone altogether. Fey kneels beside this lass and proceeds to heal her. On the last word of his poem, the blue team presses hard and cuts Fey’s arm off before he can retreat, causing the healing to fail.

Fey retreats and finds a rogue healer [someone for neither side who heals on a whim]; the rogue heals his wound in return for a similar service in the future. Then a stray sword blow hits the rogue healer and she dies. Fey the Healer reenters combat and bumps into Fist. Fist is badly damaged and wants Fey to heal his wounds or breastplate. Fey and do neither since he healed Fist earlier in this battle. Fey starts to send Fist in the direction of the rogue healer when an arrow pierces Fist’s breastplate and he dies.

Zeo, remember Zeo, a red team archer who owes Fey a favor for a healed arm, pulled Fey out of the path of battle. The archer has a broken bow. Fey recites half of his healing poem and then a javelin sticks in the back of his head so the bow is not healed; of course Fey dies.

I know, you’re saying, "What about Zeo?" Well, to tell you the truth . . .he dies!

Dagorhir units consist of warriors who fight together for a reason. There are a few rules and considerations for Dagorhir units:

• Units must have at least five active members. "Active" for unit membership is defined as showing up for battle practice at least once a month. All five members do not have to show up at the same time.
• Units should have a standard, such as a flag, banner, totem or symbol.
• Units should have someone to coordinate their activities. The Unit Coordinator is not necessarily the sole leader but the Unit Coordinator is responsible for getting information to the group concerning Dagorhir sponsored events and battle practice.
• Units should present a copy of what they stand for and against to the check-in Herald and to the Secretary.
• People interested in joining a unit can determine which one they want to join by reading the unit’s charter or history.
• Units are approved by the Chairman and the Executive council.
• Units can be started by any Dagorhir member and often resolve around one theme. [a Roman unit, a Samurai Unit, a Band of snarling Goblins, and Elven Clan, etc.]

Dagorhir Baronies consist of people who work together both on and off the field and pledge their loyalty to one another and to a Baron or Baroness. There are several requirements for the formation of a Barony:

• Baronies must have at least ten active members plus the Baron(ess). "Active" is described as a member who shows up at least one event per month.
• The Baron(ess) is responsible for letting all of the Baronial members know about Kingdom activities.
• Baronies should have a banner and a symbol.
• Baronies may have units within them.
• Baronies must submit a history to the Chairman for approval.
• Baronies are recommended to maintain one unit.
• People may join the Barony by reading the history and seeing if it fits them.
• All Baronies must be approved by the Chairman and the Executive council.

No person will be allowed to fight with a weapon or style that they have not passed the proficiency test in. The test will consist to fighting at three separate events, one of which must be a full battle. The testers will be looking that the testee is safe and competent in that type of fighting. To test, you must first fill out a request form and give it to the Marshal. Passed proficiencies will be noted with a sash or colored beads as follows:

GOLD - Heralding. Able to herald events and practices.

BLACK - Man at Arms. Able to use non-proficiency weapons and shields.

BROWN - Flail. Able to use flails and articulated weapons.

RED - Polearm. Able to use Polearms and large pole like weapons.

GREEN - Quarterstaff. Able to use quarterstaffs and double ended partisans.

WHITE - Archery. Able to use bows and crossbows.

YELLOW - Rapier. Able to use stabbing only fencing swords.

ORANGE - Plate Armour. Able to wear plate armour.

PINK - Special Weapons. Able to use unusual weapons at the Marshal’s discression.

BROWN & GOLD - Axe/Hammer. Able to use axe and hammer type weapons.

RED & GOLD - Siege Weaponry. Able to make and use Siege Engines.

BLUE & GOLD - Grappling.

BLACK & GOLD - Florentine. Able to use two weapons at the same time.

BLUE - Non-Plate Armour. Able to wear armour of a type other than plate.

(This is the end of Section 3)

Section 4: Dagorhir Armaments

Safe weapon construction for Dagorhir is very important. A safe weapon is one that does not leave bruises, break bones or noses, or knock out teeth when an un armoured person is struck with a full strength blow. If a weapon causes or could cause any injury at all when someone is struck with it, then it is an unsafe weapon. The best way to make a safe weapon for Dagorhir is through "progressive resistence". This means making the weapon is layers, each layer less resistant than the layer before it. Using this design should give you a weapon with a strong solid core and a soft outer layer.

All weapons are subject to rejection from weapons check or battle for any safety or construction discrepancies at the discretion of a Herald. No exceptions will be made for any unsafe weapons. Bear this fact in mind and remember to bring extra construction materials with you. If your weapon does not pass or breaks, then it can be repaired. All weapons and shields must be checked at every battle.

Good construction materials are essential to making safe, durable and usable weapons. Closed-sell foam [camping pad foam] and open-cell foam [poof foam/couch cushions] are the types of foam recommended. Soft foam rubber such as black computer packing foam may be used as an inside layer but this black type of foam adds a lot of weight. PVC piping insulation is a good foam for cores, hafts and shafts. Do not use Styrofoam or Styrofoam-like piping insulation. If the foam will not bend horizontally and vertically, then it probably will not make good weapons.

Camping pad foam can be purchased in most discount department stores in the sporting goods section or at camping-sports stores. It is usually located near the sleeping bags. Poof foam can be purchased at fabric shops and craft shops or taken from old couch cushions.

Razor-utility knives are very useful for cutting foam. A very small-toothed hack saw or electric kitchen knife also works well. A ruler and a sharp knife make weapon construction faster by making the foam easy to handle.

Weapon cores may be made of a variety of materials; fiberglass rods, PVC pipe, light woods, bamboo and rattan. No metal or heavy wood should be used. Also any material or weapon that bends more than one third its length is prohibited. This is called the "whip" rule. Flexible weapons have a tendency to hit, to wrap and then to hit again. This second hit "snaps" and hurts. The recommended core is 3/4 inch, 100 to 400 psi PVC or CPVC. This material can be purchased at most hardware stores. PVC caps should be placed over the ends of cut PVC. When taped on, these caps will make the weapon last longer and be safer. The PVC should not be cut or drilled on any of the surface being used for the weapon. Any blemish is a weak spot that can break during use.

The entire striking surface of the weapon must be padded with foam. The pommel, any crossguards, or any surfaces which could strike during combat must be padded, except for a reasonable handle. The maximum amount of bare PVC for use as a handle on any non-polearm weapon is 15 inches.

Only duct tape, electrician’s tape and strapping tape are allowed for taping during weapon construction. Spray glue or rubber cement are used to give the weapon more durability and a more consistent surface. No cellophane tape is allowed in weapon construction.

All weapons except arrows must have cloth covering the striking surfaces. Hafts on axes, morning stars, maces, etc. must be padded as safely as a sword. Javelins must have the entire shaft covered with at least one layer of foam. The padding of hafts and shafts should keep anyone from being hut by a non-striking surface impact, since hafts and shafts do no "Dagorhir" damage.

Weapons made with a "blade" shape, to more closely represent the authentic weapon, must be padded on the "flat" of the weapon. This includes axes, polearms, swords, etc. It also includes single-edged weapons such as katanas, cutlasses, sabers, etc. The "back" of single-edged weapons must be padded as well.

Weapons should be constructed heavy enough to be felt when a strike lands, but no weapon should weigh so much that the concussive force is damaging. The maximum is about 5 pounds. Javelins may weigh no more than three (3) pounds. If a sword pommel is weighted the balance point must be at least 2 inches above the top of the handle.

If you wish to use a weapon type that is not covered in this handbook, you must have written documentation of the weapons existence or a feasibility study. A feasibility study should include: Is the weapon possible? Could it have been constructed without the use of modern tools and materials? What weapons is the new one like? What classification do you want the weapon to have? What are its maximums and minimums? All new weapons must still pass weapons check.

Once you have selected a core, it is best to pad any tips or crossguards first. Even if a weapon is not intended for thrusting, it is easier to pad the tips first, rather than after the weapon is finished. Padding the tips will also protect the outer layers of foam from the core. Thrusting tips can be made similar to arrow construction, using larger pieces of foam.

It is best to use closed cell foam or piping insulation as the inner layer. Secure this layer to the core from tip to handle using glue and half-strips of duct tape. If using camping pad foam cut strips and box in the PVC pipe. If using piping insulation, then cut it in half lengthwise before attaching it to the core. Make sure to extend past the tip of the PVC, if you are going to overlap the pieces at the top for a tip. Make sure to pad the pommel as well.

The next step is dependent on personal preference. Another layer of camping pad foam is suggested; then a third layer on the striking surface using lass tape for each layer. This is a harder weapon that usually needs breaking in. It only "injures" when the striking surface hits. To make a soft, round sword use poof foam as the second or third layer and wrap it around the striking surface. This weapon "injures" no matter what part of the padded area strikes.

Nerf-type footballs, soccer balls and basket balls make the best flail and mace heads. Handles on flails must be at least 6 inches in overall length. An easy way to make a flail is achieved by making a sock-like tube out of cloth. This tube must be large enough to allow the football to be pushed to the closed-end and tie or sew closed and long enough to be pulled down over the padded handle. Make a dagger-sized handle and completely pad it like a sword. Pull the open end of the tube over the padding and tie down. Tie the tube down tightly in several locations. The loose fabric or "chain" must not exceed 6 inches or be less than 2 inches.

Using these guide lines and varying the construction method, should allow you to construct safe, usable weapons. Before wasting a lot of money on weapon materials, it is a good idea to ask a weapon smith how and what to do. Just look for a weapon you like, being used on the field, then ask who made it. Some weapon smiths take commissions to make weapons and others merely want construction materials.

(Note: insert "Quick Reference Chart" after this page and before page that begins:"Basic blue/green sword construction...)

Acquire a 36-inch long piece of 3/4-inch, 400 psi PVC. Measure 28 inches down the piece of pipe and place a half-piece of tape all the way around that point. Layer several half-pieces of duct tape over the ends of the pipe; half-pieces of duct tape are strips of tape ripped in half lengthwise. From a roll of 1/2-inch thick camping pad foam, cut four strips of foam that are 30 inches long and roughly 3/4 to 1 inch wide. Cut an inch off the length of two of the pieces. Tape the two small squares to the ends of the pipe; one on each end. Spray glue to the back of the two shorter strips of foam. One at a time, secure these glued strips to opposite sides of the PVC pipe starting at the taped section with half-pieces of duct tape. Fold any excess foam over the top cap of foam at the tip and tape. Allow this section to dry for one half-hour. Follow this same procedure with the next strips, using less tape. Leave air at the tip when overlapping. There should now be two strips of foam on opposite sides with bare PVC pipe in the middle.

Cut two strips of foam 2& 3/4 inches wide and 31 inches long. These wide strips will be the "flats" of the sword. Spray glue on one side of each of these wide strips. Attach these pieces to the flats, one at a time; use as little tape as possible. Place a 2 inch square piece of poof foam on the stabbing end of the weapon and secure it with tape. Do not compact the poof foam too much or it will lose the cushioning benefit. Let this set for one half-hour.

Cut two strips of camping pad that are 1 & 3/4 inches wide and 33 inches long. Spray one side of each with glue and secure one to each "blade" side of the sword with four half-pieces of tape on each side. Overlap the ends near the tip and cut so they fit flush together without compacting the poof foam. Secure the tip with two half-pieces of tape; one following the blade and one crossing this perpendicularly, so that it attaches to the flats.

Sew a sock-like tube of cloth, large enough for the sword to slide into with a snug fit. Tie this cover down tightly at the base of the padding; a tight cover will hold a weapon together longer than a loose one. Cover the lower 2 inches of the exposed PVC with padding in a manner similar to the construction of the blade; two layers of foam are sufficient. This pommel must not have any exposed PVC; particularly the very tip where sharp-edged PVC may puncture the padding. Before attaching the small square of foam, you may want to tape 5 pennies to the tip of the pommel. This weight will allow a greater speed recovery and is very useful for individuals with weak wrists. Some people like to cover the handle area with electrical tape. Allow the weapon to sit at room temperature overnight before using.

Breaking-in the weapon may be needed to remove the stiffness from the foam. Hit the blade on your leg, a wall, a tree, your roommate, household appliances, or anything else that happens to get in your way. Siblings are exceptionally useful at this juncture. Bear in mind that younger siblings are future Dagorhir generations and turn about is fair play.

Anyone who is constructing arrows for the first time is advised to speak to a weapon smith who has made arrows. Construction of safe arrows is fairly easy but somewhat costly. Following are two examples of how to construct arrows. However, there are other ways to make them. Ask a veteran member for other possible construction techniques.

General Guidelines

• Mended arrows may never be used.
• Arrows must have at least two fletchings.
• Only duct tape or strapping tape may be used.
• Non-aluminum arrows must have the shaft wrapped with tape.
• There must be no tape covering the padded tip.
• The head of the arrow must not be able to move side to side.
• The padded tip must be larger than an eye-socket.
• Any sharp tip must be removed before construction.

Construction #1: Traditional Construction

(This is the end of Section 4)

Section 5: Grimoire of Battles

Welcome to the Grimoire of Battles, in this text you will find many different types of Dagorhir battles. Some of these battles are standards, some are variations of old themes and some are bizarre one-of-a-kind originals. These are some but not all of the types of battling. Rules are explained before battling except for the most basic battles. If you do not understand, then ask someone to explain it or watch the first few times.

For the Honor...

For the Glory...

And to the Death.

Circle of Honor — One-on-one, full honor combat, fully heralded. Combat takes place in a circle of warriors and weapons. No missile weapons are allowed; armour and shield is decided by the warriors. Certain challenges may be issued, such as dagger fights, short sword to short sword, etc. Any hit to an off-limits area means death for both. The Herald decides who enters, the warriors choose the weapons.

Circle of Death — Two or more participants are chosen by the Herald to fight to the death. More participants are added as those in the circle are killed. A character may be called upon to die several times in the course of a Circle of Death. If you are interested in being called then stand along the edge of the circle. If you are not interested, then sit down. When your name is called, pick a weapon and attack the closest opponent. When you die fall outside or leave the boundary rapidly. The Herald’s job is to call participants and watch for safety violations, not to judge honor of combat.

Pedestal Circle — As above [Honor or Death], only the edge of the circle is like a table top, if one foot goes out of the circle you will fall to your death.

Teetering-Table Pedestal Circle — As a normal Pedestal Circle but warriors standing around the outside of the circle try to grab warriors in the circle and pull them out. Warriors do no rum into the circle to knock fighters out nor is the attempt to hurt anyone; just keep them off balance if fighters come near the edge.

Thunder Circle — A rag is placed in the center of a Circle of Death. When the Herald says, "Lay on", then race to the rag. Only warriors that touch the rag may grab weapons from the Circle. Before the Circle begins the Herald should say, "Two men enter." The response from the Circle should be, "One man leaves."

Combat Circle — Circle of Honor as above except the loser stay in and the winner picks his opponent. This is sometimes reversed to allow someone to live as long as possible in the Combat Circle.

Challenge Battles — One or more contestants challenge a larger force to battle. Challenge battles can be set up in many different ways but one side should have a clear advantage. This is sometimes referred to as a lesson in futility.

Shield versus No-Shield — Guess.

Armour versus No-Armour — Guess.

Geritol Battle — Old versus Young <21 and >21, <18 versus >18.

(Protect) Kill-the-King (Queen) — One warrior is chosen to be the King or Queen. A four men-at-arms try to protect him/her from point "A" to Point "B". The King/Queen may have one blue/green weapon and armour and shield. All the other warriors try to kill the King/Queen.

Troll Hunt — Two or more trolls fight against the larger force. Trolls are killed normally, but come back to life in 15 seconds (1001...1002...1003) if they are not burned. A troll is burned by kneeling beside it, touching it with a weapon and counting to ten. 1001...1002...1003...(It is recommended that there be one troll per seven warriors.)

Rogue Hunt — Two or more cutthroats are hunted by the sheriff and his men. The cutthroats get a one minute head start. This is usually played in a wooded area with two cutthroats per seven warriors.

The Hunt — 5...4...3...2...1... The Huntmaster has called the Hunt and will be pointing at someone while counting. The person indicated is the hunted and everyone else are hunters. Whoever kills the hunted becomes the hunted next and get 5 seconds to reach better ground. If the hunted kills all the hunters, then they are the Huntmaster and call the next victim.

Cutthroat — "3...2...1... CUTTHROAT!!!!!" After hearing this phrase attack any person participating. This does not mean swing wildly. No attacks made before the phrase is completed count toward injury. There is no honor as far as backstabbing in a cutthroat unless you so choose. (Take your hits or you will wish you had!!) You may not hide with non-combatants or join the foray after you have stated otherwise or given indication on non-participation. If you walk onto the field after the beginning then you must announce your presence and intent aloud; in addition , most of the participants must still be standing. Additionally, you may not team up against everyone else.

Cutthroats-for-Captains — As per a normal cutthroat but the last two or three people alive are the captains for the next field battle. The last person alive picks first.

Numbers Cutthroat — All participants will be given a number. When cutthroat is called seek out others with your number. They are your partners against everyone else. Calling out your number can be effective but it also lets you opponent know who to kill. You also may not have a partner.

Highlander Cutthroat — All participants are Highlander immortals. Death comes normally. A "dead" Highlander may only be killed by severing the head before the "dead" Highlander counts to ten ( 1001...1002...1003...). Honor is also a factor, as you do not attack until you have made eye contact, you do not attack from behind, and you do not attack engaged participants. Avoiding the gaze of another Highlander is dishonourable. When cutting the head off an opponent lightly drag your blade across their throat and say, "There may be only one."

Weapon-Pile Cutthroat — All the weapons are piled in the center of the field, when the Cutthroat is called run and grab weapons to use.

Field Battles — Two equal forces duke it out.

Peasant Revolt — A small number of "nobles", who may have armour, shield and any weapons fight against a large force of "peasants" who have only one weapon each.

Cavalry Battle — As above but the "nobles" may walk around freely and the "peasants" must fight from their knees. If a peasant kills a noble without hitting his legs, then that peasant may stand and be on "horseback". If a "nobles" legs are cut off then his horse is dead and that warrior must drop to his knees. Leg shots on "peasants" or kneeling "nobles" do not count toward death.

Stand and Deliver — Two equal forces fight to control the field. The last person alive on the losing team picks someone from the winning team to join them and the battle is fought again. It is over when the entire field is on one side.

Siege Battle — A fort is built and defended.

Race Riot — Each race [elf, human, goblin, etc.] versus the other races.

Bridge Battles — Boundaries built of hay bails or similar material represent the edge of a bridge which spans a deep gorge. Warriors are number one through four until four units are established. These numbered units fight for control of the bridge. When their number is called they run onto the bridge and try to live as long as possible. Anyone who falls or steps between of over the hay bails for any reason is dead. No archery is allowed.

One-Man Bridge Battles — A bridge about 3 feet wide is built of hay bails or weapons. Two lines of warriors, one line at each end, are allowed to have one weapon, on shield or be wearing armour. The first warrior is each line fight on the bridge. When the first warrior dies the second warrior runs in and so on. When a warrior dies he may return to the end of the line.

Bridge Battles Over Water — Some bridge battles take place over water. It is not suggested that you wear any armour. Weapons tend to hit harder when they are wet or cold. Warriors who hit the water may try to climb back onto the bridge even it they were "killed".

Canyon Battle (Pass War) — A narrow passage is made out of hay bails or this can be fought between two trees. Attacks can only be made through the pass. When one unit controls the pass, the fight is over.

Unit Battles — Three or more units duke it out.

Unit Bridge Battles — Standard units fight for control of the bridge.

Valhalla Battle — Team captains are selected and one captain receives first pick. After the teams have been selected, each team will be allowed to enter the woods and plant their flag. The team that chose second gets to enter the woods first. The flag may not be hidden and it may not be higher than 10 feet off the ground. Someone may carry the flag with them but it must be in plain sight. After a location for the flag is selected a fort of deadfall ( and deadfall only) may be built around the flag; no living plants may be harmed.

The teams have one hour to capture the other team’s flag and return it to their fort. Both flags must be in the same location. If one particular warrior is carrying the flag, then that warrior must also have the enemy’s flag. If one team has both flags at the end of one hour, then that team wins.

When you have been killed and the battle has moved out of your area, then return to Valhalla and check in with a Valhalla Herald. Every 10 minutes Valhalla will be emptied. There will be no fighting near Valhalla.

Viking Football — A field is outlined and goals are established on each end. Two equal teams try to push, pull, drag or carry as many of the opposing force across their goal. Do not grab or rip anyone else’s costuming. Warriors may cross into their goal freely. The warriors that are carried across the goal are out of the game. If you are grappling and you go out-of-bounds then you must stop grappling and enter the field. The game is over when all of one side is over the goal.

Celtic Hockey — A field is outlined and split in two equal parts. The goals are two equal sized shields at opposite ends of the field and two equal teams fight over a "ball".

One member of each team is the "quick". The quick may not be struck or killed by a weapon as long as the quick is on his side of the field. The quick is not allowed to carry any weapon and may grapple with the other quick to gain control of the ball. The quick and only the quick may place the ball on the goal. Any team member can be the quick after the quick had died, but they must drop their weapons. Hand-offs back field are legal.

Warriors may kill the other team and defend the quick. When anyone is "killed" during the game they must count to 15 ( 1001...1002...1003...). After counting they must leave the field and touch their goal before coming back into the game.

Three seven minute rounds are played. The team with the most points at the end of the third round wins. The round starts with the ball in the center of the field and the quicks on all fours, after each score the ball is returned to the center of the field. When the round begins and after each score the quicks scramble for the ball. At the beginning of each round and after each score, all the other warriors must be on their goal line.

Zombie Battle — A large group of Zombies get one weapon each and attack groups of humans. Zombies must attack and must move very stiffly; Zombies may not run. Anyone killed by a Zombie must rise in 15 seconds (1001...1002...1003...) as a Zombie. Zombies are killed normally but may get up in 15 seconds if their head is not severed. The head is severed by lightly dragging a blade across the throat.

Vampyre Battle — First select 10% of the total number of warriors to be Vampyres. Second select an equal number of warriors to be clerics. All the other warriors are normal fighters.

Vampyres are given a board at least 3 feet long. This is their coffin; it may not be buried or covered and it must be in touch with the earth. When killed Vampyres must return to their coffin to be re-born. All Vampyre attacks are red strikes regardless of weapon type or the number of hands used. When a Vampyre attacks he will call "red" if the weapon color matters. Vampyres regenerate lost limbs in 15 seconds ( 1001...1002...1003...). After a Vampyre is killed he must return to his coffin to come back to life and may attack only those who are in his direct path to the coffin. The shape of the cross has no effect on a Vampyre. When a warrior is killed by a Vampyre then that warrior becomes a Lesser Vampyre.

Lesser Vampyres have no coffin and cannot be reborn. Lesser Vampyres do regenerate as a normal Vampyre and must react to the Holy symbol. Lesser Vampyres may create other Lesser Vampyres.

Clerics are given a small flashlight and a piece of chalk. This is their Holy symbol and it must be held in the hand to be used. When shined directly at a Vampyre, the Vampyre must cringe, hiss and retreat. This is the only way to distinguish a Vampyre from a normal warrior. Clerics may raise the dead by touching their flashlights to the body. This will also kill a Vampyre or Lesser Vampyre permanently. If a Cleric is killed then no one else may use the chalk of flashlight.

If a coffin is found, it may be carried to a Cleric or if a Cleric finds a coffin he may destroy the coffin by placing an "X" on both sides of the board. If a Vampyre can recover his coffin before both sides are marked then the coffin is undamaged. The Vampyre may wipe a single "X" off. A Vampyre without a coffin will be dead for good.

Werewolf Battle — First a Cairn should be built out of logs or preferably hay bails. This is the only protection from Werewolves that a normal warrior has. Now select 4 werewolves, 4 Healers, and 4 Champions; all other participants are normal warriors.

All Werewolf attacks count as red weapons regardless of the weapon used, even if one-handed. Werewolves must hunch over, snarl and growl at other warriors. Werewolves may "bit" a victim by touching then with a hand and saying "bite." A Werewolf bite counts as a red weapon against shields and armour. The Werewolf must call out "red" when his weapon or hand hits. A Werewolf regenerates lost limbs in 15 seconds ( 1001...1002...1003...) and comes back to life in 30 seconds ( 1001...1002...1003...). These must be counted aloud. Anyone bitten by a Werewolf becomes a Werewolf in 30 seconds ( 1001...1002...1003...). Anyone killed by a Werewolf must return to the Cairn. During the 30 seconds a Werewolf is on the ground; normal warriors may dog-pile the Werewolf. If a Healer can recite the healing poem before losing contact with the Werewolf, then the Werewolf is healed and becomes a normal warrior.

A Champion’s weapons are silvered and will kill a Werewolf normally. Severed limbs still regenerate, but death is permanent. A Champion must call out "silver" when the weapon hits. No one other than a Champion may use the silver weapons. A Champion turned into a Werewolf must drop the silver weapons until healed.

Dead Healers, Champions and Werewolves return to the Cairn when they die. Every time 5 people are in the Cairn, they may return to the battle field as normal warriors, regardless of what they were before.

The End