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Baltimore Arms Fair March 16 and 17, 2013, Timonium, MD

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Sir James A:

--- Quote from: Sir Wolf on 2013-03-16, 03:48:56 ---8-10? how on earth did you get that small of a time frame? usually its like 8am till your viewing after you die waiting

--- End quote ---

I know important people. ;)

Sir James A:
What a day! :D

I met Wade Allen, who had lots of pieces he graciously allowed me to fondle ... err ... examine. I've never had my hands on an actual historical antique, so having 10 in a few hours was beyond words. I also got to meet Robert MacPherson *and* James Arlen Gillespie and listen to them all talk armor for 2 hours. Fantastic! Got lots of advice from them on my harness, too. Wade Allen doesn't give himself enough credit on his talent; that waistcoat he made for his son is extremely impressive, and he said he did it all with just a hammer and anvil. I've got 5 times more tools and I can't produce anything but scrap!

There was also a 10th/11th century sword (whose authenticity was suspect), but we got to handle quite a few antique rapiers. Also got to see a massive bearing flamberge, from, I think 16th century? Of course, the highlight for me was armor, and meeting people I've wanted to meet 10+ years. I can die a happy man now! (though I hope it doesn't happen anytime soon!)

EDIT: In my excitement I forgot to mention, I got to play with two authentic mail sleeves, and MAN the rings are tiny! It's smaller than the 6mm indian mail. You know how I know? I got to be the first person (besides Allen and Mac) to try on Robert MacPherson's sample tailored sleeve for IceFalcon to send to india for them to start working from! It moves way better than my 9mm sleeve; my arm is a little small but the movement and fitment just holding it still is much better. No bingo wings! And proper taper. And an elbow gusset. I have pics to post later. The only thing is, I completely hated it .... because now I look at my 9mm and want to cry. Good grief, seeing and touching that historical mail up close, the differences seared into my brain are nearly gut-wrenching. The only thing easing that pain is knowing I can't afford mail of that quality. :)

EDIT 2: Also should caveat and say that Wade Allen said there is historical mail with larger rings than the sleeves I played with. The quality is night and day though! Even the pin riveted historical stuff moves like it's almost a liquid, so fluid, without any slop, and not a snag one. Sigh.

Ian:
I saw the photos on facebook!  Color me jealous!  That's a great opportunity you had there Sir James!  I would love the opportunity to handle some original maille. 

Sir William:
Yes, I am truly sorry I missed this- but a grumpy Sir William is no one's friend.  ;)

Where are the pics, Brother?

Sir James A:

--- Quote from: Sir William on 2013-03-19, 21:09:01 ---Yes, I am truly sorry I missed this- but a grumpy Sir William is no one's friend.  ;)

Where are the pics, Brother?

--- End quote ---

On the Book of Faces!

Come.

Join us.

One of us.

ONE OF US. :D

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