Can a padded pole (Such as the horde flag) be used for blocking?
Can I build a class 1 weapon with no striking surface and no stabbing tip (All haft padding) and use it for blocking?
There doesn't appear to be any stipulation that requires a weapon to have a striking surface, as "handle length" only refers to the unpadded portion below the start of the haft padding:
1.4.1. Class 1 – All Class 1 Weapons must conform to the following, as applicable:
1.4.1.1. A Class 1 Weapon under twenty-four (24) inches (60 cm) in length has no weight minimum.
1.4.1.2. A Class 1 Weapon twenty-four (24) inches (60 cm) in length or longer must weigh a minimum of twelve (12) ounces (350 g).
1.4.1.3. With the exception of double-ended weapons, a Class 1 Weapon must be shorter than forty-eight (48) inches (120 cm).
1.4.1.4. The maximum handle length for a Class 1 Weapon is twelve (12) inches (30.5 cm) or one-third (1/3) of the overall length, whichever is greater. This cannot exceed one-half (1/2) of the overall length.
1.4.1.5. The minimum overall length of a Class 1 is 12 inches (30 cm) plus the length of the handle and pommel.