Appendix E - Event Report Form

Definitions:

TYPES OF MARSHALS

Overview

The fundamental distinction between types of marshals in the Kingdom of Meridies is between those who bear a warrant to authorize new fighters and those who do not. Warranted marshals are the personal representatives of the Earl Marshal and, ultimately, the Crown of Meridies; unwarranted marshals have no such authority.

The Kingdom Deputy Earl Marshal of Combat Archery (DEM of CA) - The DEM of CA ranks as a Deputy Earl Marshal and may act as a fully warranted marshal for SCA heavy weapons combat activities unless he or she is not a warranted heavy weapons fighter in Meridies or warrant is otherwise restricted. The DEM of CA must be warranted as an archer and a Combat Archery Authorization Marshal before assuming the office.
The DEM of CA is responsible for supervising the safe conduct of activities related to combat archery as delegated to him or her by the Earl Marshal and for promoting compliance with the Arms and Armor requirements, Rules of the Lists, and Conventions of Combat. He or she will report to the Meridian Earl Marshal and the Society Deputy Earl Marshal of Combat Archery on a quarterly basis concerning the training, selecting, authorizing, and supervising of archery; creating and revising the rules for archery marshals (including the creation and maintenance of a manual); and such other duties as the Earl Marshal shall direct him or her to perform. The DEM of CA shall rank as a Deputy Earl Marshal co-equal with the Deputy Earl Marshals. The DEM of CA will nominate in writing a successor to his or her office and assist this successor in transitioning into the Archery Marshal's office.

Combat Archery Authorization Marshals (CAAM) - Combat Archery Authorization Marshals are warranted by recommendation from a CAAM and with the approval of the DEM for CA to authorize archers within the Kingdom of Meridies. Their duties include the aforementioned authorizations, the reporting of archery authorizations to the DEM of CA, the promotion of safety on the fighting field through the training of archers, supervision of combat archery marshals of the field and the instruction of the marshaling of missile weapon combat. A CAAM cannot authorize heavy weapons fighters unless otherwise warranted to do so. A CAAM must learn through example: by assisting CAAMs at events during weapons inspections, assisting in an authorization of a combat archer, acting as a field marshal for events with combat archery under the supervision of a CAAM, and by displaying knowledge and safety in their own equipment and acts on the field. CAAMs are strongly encouraged to own and bring to each event the following: safety glasses, a bow gauge or pull scale, measuring tape and calculator. The CAAM may also wish to assemble a kit including strapping and electrical tape, an APD gauge (you can make this easily out of ½ inch craft wood), glue, closed cell foam and scissors.

Other (not fully Warranted) Marshals - The following types of marshals may NOT authorize fighters to participate in SCA combat in Meridies.

Archery Marshals of the Field (AMoF) - Archery Marshals of the Field are Society members who may inspect archery equipment and supervise archery combat in the absence of or as assistance to a CAAM. AMoFs may supervise boundaries in wars and melees. All authorized combat archers are AMoFs. In all respects, in the event a CAAM is present, an AMoF will defer to the CAAM.

Rules For The Missile Weapon Combatant (MWC):

A. Behavior

1. All Authorized MWCs within the Kingdom of Meridies will be considered Heavy Archers and are subject to being struck while engaged in melee. They must have the box entitled "Combat Archery" marked and signed by the Meridian Authorization Marshal. A MWC is not required to be authorized in Heavy Weapons combat unless he or she wishes to carry a secondary weapon such as a sword and fight after firing arrows. ONLY those MWCs who have authorized in Heavy Weapons may employ a secondary weapon. Authorized MWCs wishing to participate as heavy weapons fighters after shooting arrows may carry a secondary weapon(s) onto the field. They may NOT leave the battle to retrieve a weapon on the sidelines. Only those weapons carried onto the field before the battle or those gleaned during the battle itself may be used. The secondary weapon may be drawn only after the MWC has divested themselves of their bow/crossbow/sling and assuming that the MWC has proper hand protection for the secondary weapon. It is not necessary for the MWC to divest their quiver.

2. Any MWC not wishing to be struck should shout "DEAD!" as loudly as possible, or hold their bow above their head, or simply fall down. In other words, if you are no longer a threat and are dead, an oncoming fighter should have no reason to strike you (a simple, non-impact, touch or brush with a weapon is not considered a strike but does tend to reassure the oncoming fighter that you are indeed dead.) Any oncoming fighter using excessive force or ignoring and striking an MWC who voluntarily removes his or her self from action will be subject to sanction. Likewise any MWC found pretending or feigning death to remain on the field shall be sanctioned. MWCs who approach the front lines or otherwise enter an area of heavy fighting are advised to remember that they can easily be mistaken for a normal heavy weapons fighter.

3. MWCs shall fight with honor and chivalry. They will abide by all of the Rules of the Lists and will respond to holds in the manner prescribed for all fighters. Remember that all MWC are always engaged. This means you can be struck from behind and do not require eye contact prior to shooting. However, MWC will not intentionally shoot an enemy who has asked for single combat nor intentionally shoot fighters in the back. It means that MWCs will give their enemies the same courtesy of frontal engagement that they themselves would expect, even if eye contact is not made. However, shooting members of your own side in the back is a kill! A target who turns away after the missile is loosed is considered struck. Note that in the heat of melee a target is prone to not notice a hit to the back in such a manner, but do not force the issue. It is also considered unchivalrous to shout, point, jump up and down or otherwise indicate that an opponent is dead, unless your opponent has indicated that they desire clarification of a shot. The correct route of solving any acknowledgement issues is to refer the matter to the marshal-in-charge. MWC doing otherwise may be removed from the field or otherwise sanctioned.

4. An MWC who has been killed will remove his or her self from the field with all equipment, except that ammunition may be left on the field for others to use if in a quiver or other container and is left so as not to be a safety hazard on the battlefield. He or she is allowed to swap equipment with another MWC so long as this swap complies with the rules laid out in this Handbook and is accomplished before the dead MWC leaves the field.

5. MWCs shall keep in mind the portions of the body that are legal targets as outlined in the Marshals Handbook. In addition, the sides, back and top of the helm are considered proof against all missile weapons (and thrusting tips for that matter).

6. Any spent (shot) shafted arrows or shafted arrows that have accidentally fallen to the ground may NOT be picked up and used again until inspected by a CAAM or a AMoF if no CAAM is available. Golf tube and siloflex arrows or bolts may be picked up and shot again during a battle unless the scenario should otherwise dictate. Other missile weapons (ex. Javelins and Throwing Axes) may be picked up and reused by anyone if the Marshal-In-Charge and/or Archery-Marshal-In-Charge deems such weapons to be safe and of the variety to be used in such a manner at the time of inspection and as allowed by the scenario. Note that these require the user to be wearing a full gauntlet on the hand that throws them only if the user is closer than 10 feet to the enemy.

7. Bows inadvertently struck by weapons or projectiles are considered broken for the duration of the battle; however, in a resurrection type battle, your equipment is deemed to be restored when you touch the resurrection point. Projectiles are not considered broken if they are within a quiver or otherwise protected. This does not mean that the MWC is necessarily dead or even wounded. This assumes incidental or unintentional hits against bows or arrows. Fighters are strongly discouraged against striking bows. Likewise, archers are strongly discouraged against using their bows defensively, or even allowing themselves to be in a position where their bows can be struck. Note that quivers are not proof against arrows. Although a shot on a quiver does not make the arrows in it useless, a shot at an angle that would if it continued hit your leg or other body part is deemed to have injured that body part.

8. All Archers are reminded to observe the 10 foot/spear range rule. As most people do not carry a tape measure onto the field, this should be considered the equivalent of being within spear range. Archers will not fire at any oncoming fighter within this range. Simple warnings should be given to the archer disobeying this rule but stricter action should be taken if he or she blatantly ignores it after repeated warnings.

9. All MWCs should be acutely aware of the location of all groups of spectators at all times. No MWC will fire weapons that potentially can miss their intended target and strike persons in the background. Any MWC caught breaking this rule should be firmly warned once (perhaps using the instance to remind all MWCs on the field) and pulled from melee if such happens again.

10. All MWCs are responsible for their own equipment. Going through archery inspection does not relieve one of the responsibilities of maintaining safe equipment. Intentional use of faulty or unsafe equipment will be grounds for revocation of archery authorization.

11. Use ONLY your own arrows unless another MWC specifically allows you to shoot from his or her collection. Never pick up a shafted arrow and shoot it back at the enemy (Rule 6).

12. Arrows that are broken during battle will have the break exaggerated by the inspecting marshal so as to ensure that the archer is clearly aware that the arrow is not reusable. This does not mean that new breaks will be made, only that the existing ones are to be made obvious. The inspecting marshal is also highly encouraged to keep together the head, shaft and/or APD of an arrow that might have become totally separated.

13. All MWC are responsible for knowing updates to the Society and Kingdom rules. Check the Kingdom newsletter and Society Marshal updates regularly.

14. The DEM of CA reserves the right to discipline any MWC in an appropriate manner for failure to comply with these rules including but not limited to suspension or revocation of authorization. All such sanctions shall be submitted to the Kingdom Earl Marshal for approval, to whom the sanctioned MWC may appeal.

B. Equipment

Wherever siloflex is denoted herein, any Society approved equivalent is also allowed.

1. Armor - All MWCs within the Kingdom of Meridies will wear the minimum armor* required of a heavy weapons combatant with these exceptions.

a. All MWCs are allowed to wear 2 half gauntlets with a leather glove underneath each for hand protection. Full gauntlets when practicable are strongly recommended.

b. As most missile weapons do not have a basket hilt, only a hand wearing a full gauntlet may be used to throw projectiles such as Javelins and Throwing Axes when you are closer than 10 feet to your target. If you are 10 feet or farther from your target, you may wear a half gauntlet for hand protection to throw the weapon.

* Minimum Armor is defined as: 16 gauge or heavier helm, gorget or equivalent neck protection, elbow, kidney, groin, hand and knee protection and heavy boots or equivalent foot protection as set fourth in the Meridian Marshal's Handbook and Society Marshal's Handbook.

2. Bows - Bows legal for shafted arrows may not exceed 30# (Thirty pounds) of pull at 28" (Twenty-eight inches). Bows legal for golf tube/siloflex arrows may not exceed 50# (Fifty pounds) of pull at 28" (Twenty-eight inches). Compound bows are not allowed. Bows and strings must be in good and safe operating condition. The inspecting marshal is given broad discretion in making this determination. All bows must have the archer's name and Kingdom in English visible on the lame of the bow. Bows pulling heavier than 30# (heavy bows) must be marked with a minimum 4 inch wide strip of red tape on the bow's upper lame, facing outwards.

3. Crossbows - Crossbows for shafted bolts shall not exceed 600 inch-pounds of pull at the nut. This assumes a standard of 60# pull at 10" of draw (60 x 10 = 600) or the mathematical equivalent. A crossbow for shafted arrows may not have a pull greater than 70# (Seventy pounds), even if the crossbow is under 600-inch pounds. Crossbows for golf tube/siloflex bolts shall not exceed 800-inch pounds of pull at the nut. A crossbow for golf tube/siloflex bolts may not have a pull greater than 90# (Ninety pounds), even if the crossbow is under 800-inch pounds. Compound crossbows are not allowed. Crossbows and strings must be in good and safe operating condition. The inspecting marshal is given broad discretion in making this determination. All crossbows must have the archer's name and Kingdom in English visible on the stock of the crossbow. Crossbows measuring heavier than 600 inch-pounds (heavy crossbows) must be marked with a minimum 4 inch wide strip of red tape on the crossbow's right prod, facing outwards.

4. Arrows - There is no limit to the number of arrows an archer may carry on to the field, except as may be due to specific scenario, but an archer may not leave the field to get more once fighting has begun. All arrows and bolts must be clearly marked with the archer's name and Kingdom in English.

a. Shafted Arrows and Bolts

In all instances, unless otherwise noted, "tape" refers to high quality strapping/fiber tape.

1). SHAFTS: All shafted arrows and bolts shall be made using 1/4" or 5/16" solid pultruded fiberglass shafts. Wood is no longer allowed. Hollow shafts are not permitted. All shafts must be made of high quality material and be able to withstand both bend testing and force testing. Contact the DEM of CA if you are unsure as to your source of fiberglass shafts. All shafts must be covered lengthwise with good quality tape (strapping or electrical) that can contain splintering. Maximum length is 28 inches measured from the base of the blunt to the nocking point.

2) BLUNTS: Allowed are UHMW and Baldar Blunts. All blunts must be secured with good quality electrical or strapping tape. Duck tape is allowed as a finishing material but should not be used as the primary securing tape.

i. BALDAR BLUNT - This rounded rubber arrowhead shall be firmly seated. The blunt shall be at minimum secured with at least five inches of tape (electrical is preferred) around the base of the blunt and onto the shaft and at least two pieces of tape, no small than ½ inch wide around the top of the blunt in an X pattern and secured around the ends onto the shaft. (Twist ties are not required). Closed-cell foam or leather facing is not required. There is a special Baldar Blunt required for use on fiberglass shafts. These are noted by the black or bone colored base which contrasts with the white for wood shafts. The egg type blunts manufactured for a short period of time are not legal for use in Meridies or at the Society level. See Appendix A for suggested attachment.
ii. UHMW - This must be a piece of high quality UHMW solid plastic 1¼ inch tubing. It may be no shorter than 1 inch long and no less than ½ inch wide where it connects to the base. It must be securely taped on, glue is optional. The edges must be rounded. The top of the blunt must have at least ¾ inch of closed cell foam securely taped on and able to compress at least ½ its width. The tape must include at least two pieces of tape, no small than ½ inch wide around the top of the blunt in an X pattern and secured around the ends onto the shaft. Additional tape may be needed to secure the blunt securely on to the shaft. See Appendix B for suggested construction.
iii. FELLWALKER BOLTS - These are NOT permitted in Meridies.

3) NOCKS: If a nock is used, it must be securely attached, in good condition and protrude no more than ½ inch from the APD.

4) FLETCHING: Fletches of feather or plastic protruding no more than ½ inch from the shaft and securely attached may be used.

5) ANTI-PENTRATION DEVICES (APDs): All shafted arrows and bolts must have a securely attached and Society approved APD. Allowed in Meridies are golf-tube, siloflex, flexible disk, Sir Erika Rigid Disks and Asgard styles.

i. Golf Tube APD - This is constructed using a piece of golf tube cut either straight or at an angle. It must be at least measure 1¼ inches at the back end (closest to the nock or where a nock would normally be). The front end if straight cut must be 1¼ inches long or if angle the minimum length of the top wall (wall away from the shaft) is 0.625 inches and the minimum length of the bottom wall (wall nearest the shaft) is 1.875 inches (in other words the APD should not be able to penetrate more than ½ inch on any part of a 1 inch opening). The edges must be blunted either by covering with tape or melting the edges at least 1/16 inch thick. You may but are not required to add an inside reinforcement tube and if done it must be at least ½ long. The golftube APD must be securely taped on with a minimum of tape running through the length of the APD and secured on both ends and at least two wraps of tape around the APD and onto the shaft. See Appendix C for suggested construction and taping.
ii. Siloflex - The back end (end nearest the nock) of the tube must be cut straight (perpendicular to the axis of the tube). If the front end (end away from the nock) is cut straight, the minimum length of the tube wall is 1.25". If the front end is cut at an angle, the minimum length of the top wall (wall away from the shaft) is 0.625" and the minimum length of the bottom wall (wall nearest the shaft) is 1.875". Siloflex APDs shall have beveled or rounded edges. This is the inner and outer edge for the front and the back of the APD. Using tape to cover the edges of the tube is not sufficient. Melting the edges is not allowed. The APD must be securely taped on with a minimum of tape running through the length of the APD and secured on both ends and at least two wraps of tape around the APD and onto the shaft. Glue may be used in addition to the tape.

A. 75 & 80 PSI Siloflex APD's:

1. It must be made from either 75 or 80 psi Polyethylene tubing or an approved equivalent as permitted under Society combat archery rules..
2. The minimum outside diameter of the APD is 1.25".
3. If the outside diameter of the tube is less than 1.25" but greater than 1", the tube must be flared to expand the back end (end nearest the nock) to 1.25" as long as the flaring does not weaken the APD by causing stress cracks or breaks.
4. The attachment to the shaft may be enhanced by a routing a channel, the thickness of the tube or less, to place the shaft in.
5. The APD tube may also have tabs cut into the wall or extending out of the wall along the shaft to provide additional surfaces for taping.

B. 100, 160 and 200 psi APDs:

1. It must be made from either 100, 160 or 200 psi Siloflex tubing or equivalent as permitted by Society combat archery rules.
2. The minimum inner diameter of the APD must be 1".
3. You must then use one of the following designs: external or internal tab and/or routed channel.
a. External tab: This design has a 2" tab sticking out from the front, bottom of the APD. This APD and tab shall be made using one solid piece of Siloflex tubing. The minimum width of the tab is 3/8". The tab must be taped in a spiral wrap going around it and the shaft. This spiral of tape shall cover the entire tab and extend at least a 1" in front of the tape to prevent slippage of the APD.
b. Internal tab: This is a tab cut at least .5" into the bottom edge of the APD. This tab should be a minimum of 3/8" and a maximum of .5" in width. This APD shall be taped in place, by overlapping the tab and the shaft several times.
c. Routed Channel: A channel is routed down the center bottom of the APD. The minimum depth of the channel is 1/16". The minimum width of the channel is a .25". These shall be glued securely prior to taping.

b. Tubular Arrows and Bolts

1) SHAFTS: Shafts may be constructed of either golf tubes of at least 1¼ inches in diameter or 100 psi siloflex with an internal diameter of at least 1 inch. No yellow tape or markings shall be used on tubular ammunition. Maximum length is 33 inches for golf tube shafts and 28 for siloflex measured from the base of the blunt to the nocking point. Golf tubes may be reinforced with lightweight foam (think pool noodle).

2) NOCKS: All nocks must be cut such that no more the slot is no more than ½ inch deep and no part of the nock area may protrude more than ½ inch into a helm. Pinch nocks are no longer allowed. Golf Tubes must have reinforcements made from a film canister, siloflex (100psi or 160psi), bottle cap or wooden plug. All such reinforcements must be securely attached and glued in place. Wooden plugs must be a hardwood, not pine, shall be at least 1 inch long and shall be reinforced by string running through the blunt and tube with such strings securely taped in addition to gluing. Siloflex needs no reinforcement (although you can do so with 100psi or 160 psi siloflex or wooden plugs if you choose) and ½ inch grooves can be cut directly into the tube.

3) FLETCHING: Fletching protruding no more than ½ inch and of soft material such as foam, leather, plastic vanes or duct tape is allowed and must be securely attached to the shaft and conform to any Society level requirements for the same.

4) APDs: APDs are not required on tubular arrows and bolts.

5) BLUNTS:

i. Golf Tube Blunts:

A) Classic Baldar - Firmly seat a Baldar Blunt (not egg style, use either black, white or bone bases). The blunt must be securely attached using electrical or strapping tape.
B) Tennis Ball - Using a strong cord of 1/8" or less diameter, tie the tennis ball to the golf tube by crossing two pieces of cord through the golf tube underneath the reinforcing ring, and over the tennis ball. Be sure that the knots are located on the side of the tennis ball and not at the tip. Securely tape the tennis ball to the tube using strapping tape. Be sure that the cords are securely taped to the tennis ball to prevent slippage. These cords will prevent the tennis ball from being torn loose when the arrow strikes a hard surface. Tennis balls may be slit but such is not required.

ii. Siloflex Blunts:

A) Classic Baldar - Firmly seat a Baldar Blunt (not egg style, use either black, white or bone bases). The blunt must be securely attached using electrical or strapping tape.
B) Tennis Ball - Using a strong cord of 1/8" or less diameter, tie the tennis ball to the golf tube by crossing two pieces of cord through the golf tube underneath the reinforcing ring, and over the tennis ball. Be sure that the knots are located on the side of the tennis ball and not at the tip. Securely tape the tennis ball to the tube using strapping tape. Be sure that the cords are securely taped to the tennis ball to prevent slippage. These cords will prevent the tennis ball from being torn loose when the arrow strikes a hard surface. Tennis balls may be slit but such is not required.
C) Rubber Stopper (Omarad) - White/off white Rubber stopper (size 6.5) with a minimum of a ¾ inch of closed cell foam that can compress at least ½ its length on top. Stopper must be secured with cord in the same manner as the tennis ball blunt. Foam must be securely taped with electrical or strapping tape.

5. Other Projectile Weapons - These include, but are not limited to, javelins, throwing axes, sling balls, etc. These are normally reusable weapons hand thrown or fired from a sling.

a. Javelins - Any 'spear-like' object. The term javelin is used to differentiate between missiles and the rattan or fiberglass varieties of spears. Javelins may be constructed from lengths of 11/4 inch outer diameter schedule Golf Tube or Siloflex. The use of Silo-flex, ASTM number D-2239,with a wall thickness of 1/8 inch and a 1 inch inside diameter, is also permitted. Darts are a short version of javelins and follow the same construction standards. Striking tips shall be constructed according to tourney weapon thrusting tip standards (see the marshal's handbook). The butt end of the shaft must be covered to present a flat and solid surface.

b. Sling Balls - These are simply tennis balls wrapped in duct tape and with a small slit so as to collapse when stepped on. The slit should be just big enough to allow air out but not so large as to allow rocks, dirt and other debris in. A maximum of twenty may be carried onto the field but they may be picked up and reused after you have inspected them for rocks, dirt and other debris that may have found their way inside the slit. Note that these harm your opponent only as a kill on a face shot.
Hand Slings - may not contain any rigid substance in the construction. They may be up to 54 inches in total length end to end.
Staff Sling - Made of rattan of a minimum 1¼ inch diameter, the overall length a maximum of 48 inches.

c. Throwing Axes/Hammers - Shafts may be made of 1½ inch outside diameter black Polyethylene water pipe (NOT PVC!) sealed with end caps and have heads made of closed-cell foam thick enough so as not to enter into the face guard of an SCA-legal helm more than ½ inch (usually three layers of closed cell foam is best). Pork chop" thrown axes are made of tape, foam, rubber hose, and/or leather. All axe heads must have progressive give and be approved by the inspecting marshal. Striking edge must be marked in a contrasting duct tape color.

d. Throwing Knife - As of this writing there is no such thing as a throwing knife allowed in Meridian combat.

e. That Weird Thing Sir Yeoman Brought To The Melee - If a MWC has designed a new (very preferably period and documented) missile weapon, the Marshal-In-Charge and/or Archery-Marshal-In-Charge should examine the new weapon closely and see if it falls within the guidelines of the above projectiles with the first and foremost criteria being that of safety.
If it is simply a variation on a theme it is readily permissible. If it is something totally new, extensive testing and a full analysis of its construction should be made before letting it onto the field. If you as the Marshal-In-Charge or Archery-Marshal-In-Charge do not feel it is safe - do NOT allow it into combat. As usual, appeals can be made to the Earl Marshal, DEM of CA and Royalty present. Regardless, send all information on said weapon to the DEM of CA at the earliest available opportunity.

6. Pavises and Shields

a. Personal Shields - All personal shields must conform to the rules for shields in the Society fighters handbook and the Meridian marshal's handbook. All shields used by missile combatants are only effective in blocking missile weapons. If any missile combatant's shield gets intentionally touched by a rattan weapon, while they are using or carrying their bow or crossbow, that counts as a "kill". If any missile combatant blocks a rattan weapon or spear with their shield, that is considered a "kill". MWCs authorized in heavy weapons may sling a shield on their back(or another part of their body), for when they switch to a rattan weapon. However, until that transition is made, the shield is considered armor, not a shield. One shield per MWC. Thrown weapons may be used while carrying a shield.

b. Pavises - MWCs may use a Pavise. The pavise is a stationary shield. It should only be worn/carried on the person if it is being transported from one location to another. If it is slung on the body (i.e. over the back), it does NOT count as a shield, and any hit to it that would have otherwise contacted the archer, counts as though the pavise was not there. Only once set on the ground does a pavise become effective and act as protection. If it is carried as a personal shield, when moving it, it may be used to block missiles, but you may not use your missile weapon while moving it. Pavices shall be designed to stand up on the field by itself i.e. these do not require a person to keep them upright.

C. Guidelines for Marshaling and Equipment Inspection

1. Groups may have but are not required to have a combat archery marshal. This should be a CAAM. Each group combat archery marshal should report quarterly to the DEM of CA on the same schedule as group knight marshals a form is available as Appendix D.

2. All CAAMs shall report to the DEM of CA any authorizations performed during the quarter. CAAMs must also provide to the DEM of CA at least one report every two years or will be dropped off the roster of warranted marshals and must apply to have their status reinstated.

3. Each event, with combat archery, shall have an Archery Marshal-in-charge (AMIC) whose duties are helping to ensure the safety of all MWCs, spectators, marshals and overseeing and possibly running missile weapons combat on the field. The AMIC is preferably a CAAM but can be an AMoF if no CAAM is available. All AMICs are charged with the duty of ensuring that all Missile Weapon Combatants act safely and are familiar with the rules. The AMIC shall be primarily responsible for equipment inspection but may employ others to assist in inspections, CAAMs if available and AMoFs if not. AMICs should remind the Marshal-in-Charge of any potential safety issues for MWC such as the field conditions and location of spectators/cars, etc. including any notices that may need to be made to MWC or spectators prior to the start of combat. While the AMIC is not responsible for providing safety glasses for marshals, the AMIC should gently remind all marshals to wear safety glasses, preferably those rated for blunt impact such as handball/racquetball glasses. The AMIC must report by the end of the next quarter to the DEM for CA regarding the event and noting any issues. A form is available for the same as Appendix E to this handbook. Good notes written as soon as possible after any incident are essential. Make every possible attempt to secure the missile which has caused the injury for inspection by the Earl Marshal and the DEM of CA.

a. Inspection of Missile Weapons Combatants

Always err on the side of safety!

1. Check for authorization cards. Although the AMIC is not responsible for waivers and armor inspection, the AMIC should remind archers to have their armor and waivers inspected.

2. Examine each bow and crossbow for visible cracks, splintering, or warping and compliance to pull weight limits. Each bow or crossbow must be pulled and measured. Check the string for fraying. Any changes to the bow or crossbow, such as a new string requires re-inspection before use. Draw is measured from where the string rests to where it is pulled.

3. Examine all projectiles. Take all shafts out of the bag or container. For arrows this may mean dismantling of one or two selected at random if the inspecting marshal is unsure about the arrow's construction. Criteria for rejection includes, but is not limited to: wobbly heads, untaped shafts, loose fletching, loose or missing nocks, loose APDs, improper construction, etc. Inspecting marshals are reminded that blunts and APDs are to be secure on the shafts. This means will not come off with a moderate amount of force. Not that the blunt or APD cannot be torn off by excessive twisting and tugging. Please defer to a more experienced marshal when in doubt.

b. During the Fighting

1. The AMIC may fight in the battles, however, be aware that as AMIC, you may be called upon to help marshal large battles or provide marshals for the same.
2 During breaks between fighting, help to sort and examine all projectiles. Broken arrows and such will be removed from play and preferably placed in a 'dead' pile or bin so as to differentiate between good and bad projectiles.
3. Marshals-In-Charge of an event should plan for having safety goggles for all Marshals well in advance of the event if archery is to be used. They should not depend on an AMIC to provide these.
4.. Ensure that the archers are not firing into the crowd. Gently remind them as soon as possible, pull them from the field if they ignore you.
5.. Make sure no one uses excessive force in killing an archer. Likewise, be sure the archers are behaving chivalrously and are taking kills as they are supposed to.
6. Remove spent arrows from the field if it is safe to do so.

3. Authorization of new archers and Archery Authorization Marshals

c. Authorizations of New Archers

1. The candidate must complete a Waiver as is required for all combatants in the SCA. Note that the group waiver signed at Troll does not count toward this requirement.
2 The CAAM will ensure that the candidate is familiar with the Rules Of The List and the rules specifically governing missile combat.
3. The CAAM will do an armor, weapon and projectile inspection as detailed above.
4. As with Heavy Combat, the candidate for authorization must own all of his or her own equipment and it must meet the current guidelines for the Kingdom of Meridies. The candidate must own at least one dozen arrows or bolts.
5. The candidate must demonstrate competency in handling his or her equipment in a combat situation. Find an armored heavy weapons fighter, have him approach and ask yourself the following:
a. Is the candidate reasonably safe to himself or herself and others?
b. Does the candidate choose the correct targets on the oncoming fighter?
c. Is the candidate mindful of the 10'/Spear range rule?
d. Is the candidate aware of when to shout 'DEAD' or fall down?
e. Does the candidate recognize a good blow to the head?
6. Have the prospective archer perform an inspection of his or her equipment. This is vital as the prospective archer may one day be required to act as an Archery Marshal of the Field. If the candidate does not know how to perform an inspection, teach them.

7. If CAAM is satisfied that the candidate is reasonably safe and is aware of the rules, he or she will inform the candidate that they have passed and are now authorized. The CAAM will then complete an Authorization Form. The new MWC will then send copies of the Authorization Form, and his or her membership card (or pay the applicable fee if not a member) to the Kingdom Authorization Marshal. The new MWC should keep copies for his or her self as proof of authorization until the new card arrives.

d. Siege Engines

Siege engine rules and policies are not addressed in this handbook. However, it should be noted that like heavy weapons combatants, authorized MWCs are allowed to build and operate siege engines. The Meridian and Society rules for the same must be consulted prior to any building or operating of siege engines for combat use by a MWC.

D. Other Kingdom Rules - Be advised that archery standards in other Kingdoms may be quite different than those in Meridies. When traveling to another Kingdom's event, be sure to ask their Marshallate if your particular equipment or conventions of archery are allowed. Remember that you are subject to the rules of the Kingdom that you are playing in.

The following are just a few of the rules you might encounter:
1. Light Archers - These archers are NOT to be struck in battle. They may observe an imaginary ten-foot kill zone, or perhaps use the touch kill rule.
2. Touch Kill (or Kill Zone) - Rather than be struck by a heavy weapons fighter, some Kingdoms enforce the 'Touch Kill' rule. This rule allows that any archer being touched by an enemy weapon is dead.
3. Tubular Arrows Only - You may enter into a Kingdom that does not allow cedar or fiberglass shafts. You will have to find some tubular arrows or do without.
4. Head Shots - Occasionally a Kingdom will instruct it's archers to take an arrow to the sides, top or back of the head if the person struck thinks it was properly oriented and strong enough to have penetrated the helm.

This Handbook Compiled by

Maras Qaylah bint Aamir
DEM of CA, Meridies
E-Mail: qaylah@aol.com

APPENDIX A

Baldar Blunt suggested attachment instructions

Courtesy of Sir Erika Bjornsdottir of Trimaris
http://www.northstararchery.com/blunts.html
First make sure you have the right type of Baldar Blunt to go with your shafts. The Blunts with the large diameter collar and white base are for wooden shafts, 5/16 inch to 3/8 inch diameter. The Blunts with the small diameter collar and black base are for solid fiberglass, ¼ inch diameter shafts. Just to keep things interesting, there are a few Blunts that were produced with the wrong color base.
All combat archery arrows and bolts must be taped with strapping tape (aka fibertape). I recommend taping wooden shafts before you push on the Baldar Blunt so that the tape will be inside the Blunt. For solid fiberglass shafts, I recommend taping the shaft after pushing the Blunt on and before taping the Blunt on.
Solid fiberglass shafts must be wiped clean with a paper towel and acetone. Use acetone, not use fingernail polish remover, because of the conditioning oils in nail polish removers. In case you were wondering, do not wipe wooden shafts clean with acetone.
Place a mark on the shaft 1/2 inch from the end of the arrow. Push the Baldar Blunt onto the end until it covers the 1/2-inch mark. A little water or spit will help it slide on more easily. I recommend using gel superglue inside the Blunt to help it slide on more easily and stick to the shaft better. It will take several days for this glue to dry inside the blunt. If you are having great trouble pushing the blunt on, try holding the collar of the Blunt under hot tap water just before inserting the shaft.
Push it in straight and do NOT let the Blunt twist to the side or you will split the collar. If you split the collar, the Blunt may not be used. Do not use oil or other lubricants to make your Baldar Blunt slide on more easily because it might damage the Blunt and it might cause the Blunt to slide back off the shaft.
Now is a good time to install your APD and tape the shaft with strapping tape.
To make sure the Baldar Blunt is completely seated onto the shaft, shoot the arrow at a solid wall with your bow half drawn. For crossbows, shoot the wall and stand way back from the wall. After shooting, inspect the arrow to make sure the Blunt is seated completely on the shaft. To do this, grab the arrow or bolt at either end and flex it. If you feel that the Blunt is not completely seated on the shaft, shoot the wall again. Also inspect the Blunt for damage.
Now you must tape the Blunt to the shaft. Use ½ inch or wider, high quality, electrical tape because it endures, sticks and stretches well. Please don?t use the cheap stuff as you will be cursing it later. I recommend 3M brand available at Lowe's and Home Depot. Stretch the tape slightly as you wrap it three times around the shaft BELOW the collar of the Baldar Blunt. Then stretch the tape up to the collar of the Blunt and wrap the tape three times around the collar. Now stretch the tape back down to the shaft, and make three more wraps around the shaft below the Blunt. Do not stretch the tape too much or it will slide off the collar of the blunt. Next, place one or more pieces of tape (8 to 10 inches) [editor's note Meridies requires two pieces of tape in an X) over the top of the blunt and down the sides of the shaft. One last piece of tape needs to go around the shaft to cover the ends of the tape that went over the head of the blunt.
YOU ARE DONE! YIPPIEE!
Please take good loving care of your arrows. After shooting your arrows or bolts, you must inspect them. Even if someone else has inspected them after a battle, you need to re-inspect your own arrows again. Do not shoot them again if you find any kind of damage, if the Blunt is not seated or taped correctly. Arrows, like other weapons, need attention and up-keep. You will need to fix and re-tape them occasionally.
Inspect them between battles and when you get them home. Don't wait until it's time to take them back out onto the battlefield to inspect them. Don't store your arrows in a shed where the temperature is uncontrolled. Extreme temperatures will make the tape come loose. I find this makes the arrow inspectors grumpy.
SCA Society and SCA Kingdom rules are always improving. Hopefully these instructions do not conflict with any rules, but you better check for yourself.

APPENDIX B

UHMW suggested attachment instructions

Courtesy of Sun Lu-Shan of Trimaris
http://www.flatbow.com/UHMW/UHMWpad.html

These are the tapes you will need: 3/4" or 1" strapping tape, and electrical tape of your color choice. You can go a little cheaper on the strapping tape ("Duck" brand is OK, but 3M is better), but always get the best electrical tape you can find, because that is the key to making your taping job last. I use 3M type 35.
Tape the entire fiberglass shaft with strapping tape. 1" tape will allow you to cover a 1/4" shaft with one straight piece. Mark the shaft 1/2" from the end.
Pound the blunt onto the shaft until you feel it seat all the way and you see that the blunt has reached the mark you made on the shaft. You will probably strip some tape off the shaft, but that is not a problem.
This may seem a little strange, but it will make sense shortly. Instead of foam circles, cut 2 squares from 1/2" thick camping pad foam, each at least 1 1/4" but less than 1 1/2" wide. You can use a 1 1/4" circle, as seen on the right, but its hard to get the taping just right so it is not too compressed, or too loose. Plus, squares are much easier to cut.
Cut 2 pieces of strapping tape, each about 8" long, and attach them to a square of foam, on the diagonal. Make the ends even all the way around.
Tape the pad on to the face of the blunt, pulling the tape tight enough to compress the corners down around the sides, but not so tight as to smash the face of the padding. Pull the tape down and stick it onto the shaft itself, making it as smooth as possible.
Roll the blunt between your hands back and forth until the tape is plastered down all around.
Make a second pad with two 8" pieces of strapping tape identical to the first one. Put it on the face of the first pad, but rotated 45 degrees, and pull the corners down.
Attach and roll the second pad just like the first, and you will end up with something like this. It's ugly now, but it gets better. Notice how the tension on the corners of the foam give it stability. This will keep it from rolling off to the side when it hits the target, giving you a more solid, longer lasting head.
Cut a 2 - 3" piece of strapping tape and wrap it tightly around the shaft just at the base of the blunt. This will keep the tape from loosening and will keep your blunt on tight.
This is a key step. Starting at the solid part of the blunt and working your way to the tip, wrap a tight spiral of strapping tape around the head. Your goal is to make a tight cylinder 1.25" across. Do not go so tight as to make it undersized, and overlap each layer about halfway. Along with making it look much nicer, your arrow will now fly straight and the head will survive repeated impacts.
There we have the functional part of the blunt all taped up and ready to go except for the colored tape. I do not recommend using the arrow in this condition, because the strapping tape will not stay on by itself. Adding electrical tape is functional and aesthetically more pleasing.
To finish off the blunt, add 4 strips of electrical tape, each about 8" long. attach them like the strapping tape, by stretching them over the sides of the head enough to keep the tape smooth.
Stop stretching once you reach the taper of the blunt. Let the tape relax, and push your thumb into the corner, smoothing the tape down around the shaft without any stretch at all.
Run a spiral of electrical tape around the shaft for a couple of inches.
Make sure your blunt is at least 1.25" across. If you have followed these directions carefully, this should not be a problem.

APPENDIX C

Golf Tube APD suggested construction

Materials:

Golf Tube
¾ in. wide Strapping tape
Scissors

Makes approximately 18 APDs.

Construction:

1. Take golf tube and cut a section at least 1¼ inches long.
2. Tape over edges such the tape fully contacts the golf tube on both the outside and inside of the tube.

Attachment:

1. Remove any fletches from the arrow.
2. Cut a piece of strapping tape approximately 3 inches long.
3. Place tape inside the APD such that one end has a 1/4 in. tab projecting from it. This is now the top of your APD.
4. Place on arrow so that the top of the APD rests less than ½ in. from the end of the nock. It is suggested that this be placed parallel to the nock slit, in the third fletch position. Then secure the tape protruding from the bottom of the APD to the arrow. The top will most likely be loose at this point.
5. Cut a 4 to 5 in. piece of strapping tape. Split this lengthwise into two pieces, one slightly narrower than the other.
6. Take the narrow piece of tape and use it to secure the tab at the top of the APD to the arrow. Start the tape on the arrow and slant to minimize effect on nock slit. It is ok if some tape covers the nock slit, this will give some and be useable after a couple of times on the bow string.
7. Use wider piece of tape to secure the bottom of the APD, wrapping to create a small shelf to help secure the APD.
8. OPTIONAL BUT SUGGESTED STEP: Take a 5 inch piece of tape and cut in half lengthwise. Place each piecethrough the center of the APD and over on the shaft on each end creating an X.
9. Take strapping tape and wrap around the middle or top of the APD and around the arrow for extra anchoring at least twice.
10. Test to make sure the APD is secure and remember to cover any exposed fiberglass from where you removed fletches!

APPENDIX D

Quarterly Report Form

Kingdom of Meridies
ARCHERY MARSHAL'S QUARTERLY REPORT FOR
1st Qtr 2nd Qtr 3rd Qtr 4th Qtr 200 _
Do not use calligraphy. Please print clearly or type.
Quarterly reports are due February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15
Reports are missed if received after the twenty-fifth.

Group Name, City, & State: __________________________________________________
Current Archery Marshal: SCA Name: _________________________________________________
Mundane Name: ______________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________________ E-mail: ____________________________
City: _________________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: ________________
SCA Membership number: _____________________ Expiration Date: _____________________

Current Deputy Marshal: SCA Name: ________________________________________________
Mundane Name: ______________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________________ E-mail: ____________________________
City: _________________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: ________________
SCA Membership number: _____________________ Expiration Date: _____________________

Number of archers in the group ______
Please attach a list of fighters including Name (SCA and Mundane) and Membership Number
Number of fighter practices held during the quarter ________ Number per month _______
Average number of archers per practice _______
Number of Injuries: _______ Attach Injury Reports as Necessary.
Number of Official Fighting Events held during the quarter with archery ________
Marshal's Event Reports are due within 10 days of the event.
Event Tournament Date # of Fighters Winner
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

Condition of fighting in group: ______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
Problems, successes, attitude of fighters: _____________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mundane Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________________

SCA Signature: ______________________________________

APPENDIX E

Event Report Form

Archery Marshal's Event Report
Kingdom of Meridies
Do not use calligraphy. Please print clearly or type
This report must be filed within 10 days of the date of the event.

Group Name, City, & State: ___________________________________________________
Date of the Report: ______________________ Date of the Event: _________________________
Name of the Event: _______________________________________________________________
Location of the Event: ____________________________________________________________
Type of Fighting Event: ___________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

Archery Marshal in Charge: SCA Name: ______________________________________________
Mundane Name: ______________________________ Phone: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________________ E-mail: ____________________________
City: _________________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: _________________

Number of additional marshals: _________ List names on back
Number of Archers: _________
Winner of Event: ________________________________________________________________
Minister of the List (if any): _________________________________________________________

Violations of Rules of the List or Conventions of Combat: ________________________________
If other than zero attach a detailed report

Chirurgeon in Charge: ____________________________________________________________
Injuries: ________
If other than zero attach an Injury Report

Additional Comments (warnings, observations, etc.): ____________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mundane Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________________

SCA Signature: ______________________________________