These are the top Questions asked about Arrowsreach:
There are a range of membership options available. All membership applications are handled by the SCAA.
While membership is not required to play, members enjoy discounts when attending meetings and events. Over a year the total discounts received often exceeds the membership cost. Beside financial discounts, members have more of a say/voting rights over non members and at Arrowsreach members get priority over non members e.g. loaner armour. The most important factor to remember about membership is you are supporting the SCA and without members the SCA can't exist.
The SCA has very strict rules about minors(<18yrs of age) participating in combat. The simple answer is yes the SCA does cater for minors with written consent supplied by a parent. Arrowsreach requires a parent/guardian to remain on site while their minor is attending any of our activities. Its important to remember that depending upon the form of combat, armour is heavy and the effects on developing bodies is not known.
Rapier combat which is similar to fencing, with parents written consent the minimum age is 14.
The start up costs various greatly depending on avariety of factors. The form of combat, whether you're capable and prepared to make your own gear, and if purchasing armour, what standard of armour you decide to purchase.
Arrowsearch has loaner armour and equipment which enable you to experience combat before spending the time and money, only to find out it does not suit you.
As a general rule most combatants make the simpler parts of armour and purchase the more complicated items from an armourer. If you were to follow this general rule and look at a basic kit, then rapier would be the cheapest, then heavy combat, followed by archery due to the added expense of a bow and arrows. Arrows are a consumable due to breakage, especially in wars where they get trodden on.
It's very rewarding to make your own gear and typically people take on such projects in a social setting and are very proud of the end product.
Refer ”New Comers Guide” If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Jason Tate via seneschal@arrowsearch.com.