ax head construction

[Peter]

I am in the process of building a new ax.
In section VII C paragraph 3 of the marshals handbook it states-

"3. If the weapon has a head, it shall not be constructed of solely rigid
materials. The head shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft. The
head shall allow at least 1?2 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give between the
striking surface and the weapon haft. Laminated or split rattan construction
techniques do not require 1?2 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give, so long as
their construction imparts striking characteristics similar to an unpadded
weapon constructed of a single piece of rattan."

This seems contradictory between, "it shall not be constructed of solely
rigid materials" and "Laminated or split rattan construction techniques do
not require 1?2 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give".

Am I correct in interpreting this to mean that the ax head can be
constructed entirely out of a series of laminated split rattan pieces? Or
would I be better off using solid rubber?
My intension at this point would be to then cover the head with 12-14 oz.
hardened leather.
Would this be acceptable?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

In Service to the King,
Thegn Guthorm

[jk]

"Peter" <grendle...@hotmail.com> wrote:

>
>Am I correct in interpreting this to mean that the ax head can be
>constructed entirely out of a series of laminated split rattan pieces? Or

No it does not mean that, just that the "give" does not have to be on
the outside of the splint.

>would I be better off using solid rubber?
>My intension at this point would be to then cover the head with 12-14 oz.
>hardened leather.
>Would this be acceptable?
>
>Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
>
>In Service to the King,
>Thegn Guthorm

jk