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A Beginner's Guide to Your First LARP Sword

If your LARP involves combat, chances are you'll need a weapon eventually. But not just any prop will do, LARP swords are built to be safe, sturdy, and fun to swing, so it's worth understanding the basics before you buy.

Where to start

Safety rules

Most combat events require a professionally made sword created by trusted manufacturers who build weapons specifically for larp. Plastic swords purchased on low-cost ultra-fast fashion marketplaces, costume-shop props and DIY builds are generally not allowed unless specifically stated otherwise by the event.

Event organisers generally perform a safety-check of your foam or latex weapon, and every event will have its own rules about what's allowed.

We recommend reading the event guide, or reaching out to the organisers, for the weapon rules.

The right decisions

For your first sword choice, keep it simple with these criteria:

  • Choose a design that is universal. This will allow you to use the sword for different character types if you decide to change things up along the way.
  • Choose a one-handed or short sword. They are light, easy to carry, less technical to swing, and work for almost any character.
  • Choose a size that matches your height, skill level, and comfort.
  • Make sure it is compliant – it needs to fit your event's safety rules and combat intensity.

Construction

Our Ready for Battle and Epic Armoury lines with a classic construction (you can choose this filter under "construction type") are a sensible starting point for new players who have little to no experience with larp combat and are looking for a reliable and affordable sword.

They are built out of foam from handle to blade, with a thick latex coating, making them the softest and safest option available.

Note that the latex does need a little upkeep. A thin layer of Silicone Protection Gel applied to the latex after each use avoids cracks and tears. You can learn more about maintenance here.

Pro tip

Ideal sword size

The most basic method to find your "ideal" sword length is to hold a broom or a stick by your side while standing in a relaxed and neutral position. Hold the stick with the tip down at about 3-5 cm from the floor (1-2 inches). The length from the tip to your hand is your estimated ideal blade length.

a sword upgrade

Once you've got some events under your belt, earned some combat techniques and have a clearer sense of what you want for yourself and your character, take a look at our more detailed swords with a Hybrid, Vanguard, Stronghold or Stronghold Master construction.

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