Trident Questions

[Hermes]

They're impractical and difficult to construct, especially safely. I know that much already. I still like the idea of one, and just have some questions:

1- Can all three tines be striking/stabbing?

2- how much space can be between the tines before it's considered unsafe?
3- Any recommended length? I was thinking about 3.5', so I can wield it comfortably in one hand.
4- Has anyone seen one used before? I'd be interested in how it performed.

That's basically it. Again, I know the complications with this weapon type, but it's something I really want and am willing to work at.

[Reverend]

They're impractical and difficult to construct, especially safely. I know that much already. I still like the idea of one, and just have some questions:

1- Can all three tines be striking/stabbing?

2- how much space can be between the tines before it's considered unsafe?
3- Any recommended length? I was thinking about 3.5', so I can wield it comfortably in one hand.
4- Has anyone seen one used before? I'd be interested in how it performed.

That's basically it. Again, I know the complications with this weapon type, but it's something I really want and am willing to work at.

I'll see if I can get Evil Randy to respond to this. He's the only person I know who has successfully made a trident that could last (though the initial core was too whippy and caused it to fail for flex).

[Hermes]

They're impractical and difficult to construct, especially safely. I know that much already. I still like the idea of one, and just have some questions:

1- Can all three tines be striking/stabbing?

2- how much space can be between the tines before it's considered unsafe?
3- Any recommended length? I was thinking about 3.5', so I can wield it comfortably in one hand.
4- Has anyone seen one used before? I'd be interested in how it performed.

That's basically it. Again, I know the complications with this weapon type, but it's something I really want and am willing to work at.

I'll see if I can get Evil Randy to respond to this. He's the only person I know who has successfully made a trident that could last (though the initial core was too whippy and caused it to fail for flex).

awesome, thanks. I have some ideas, but advice from someone more experienced would be a ton of help.

[randy]

My goal for the trident was to make it a 5' javelin, stab and throw legal. In order to conform to the 16 ounce rule, I used a .303 core, 2" plank foam (for trident shape), and open cell foam for the tips. With extremely limited tape and glue, I was able to get it to 16.4 ounces after the incidental padding was taped with cloth adhesive tape. BUT, as REV mentioned, the flex on the weapon was really bad and would have most likely failed.

Every attempt I have made to make the trident into a jav have failed due to the weight restrictions.

IF you wanted to make a 5-6' trident slash/stab legal, I would use bandshop or a fiberglass broom handle. The plank I used 2" 2.2 lb and cut the shape I wanted. Since the plank will give when pushed/pulled in my opinion it isn't really a safety issue. Someone is much more likely to become injured during a poor shield bash (knee to face) than by becoming entangled with a foam curved weapon.

[Remdawg Killionaire]

I am totes making a trident for glad pits now.

[Hermes]

Alright, thanks so much for the information on it. I had an idea for it, but I think I'll try yours first. I've never been much of a javi user, so not too concerned that it can't pass for that so far, but good luck to you if you're still trying to make one.

[randy]

If weight isn't a worry, make sure you line the inside curve with a thin strip of leather to keep it from ripping if someone tries to break your toy.

[Sir Thurat]

I've also heard that yoga blocks are great for shaping/carving a good base for axe heads; might work for what you're trying to do.

[Cheeseheart]

Remy please let me use that trident.

[Remdawg Killionaire]

Do you want the trident or the dual-ended red flail?

[Cheeseheart]

LOL. I'll take the trident. Cheeseheartacus is a true gladiator. I'm also going to invest in one of those ball and chains that was used for jugging.

[Hermes]

The phrase "dual-ended red flail" makes me uncomfortable. I was perfectly content in my land of single head blue fails.

Also, been unable to work on the trident due to funds, but I hope to make it after I get home from bftr. I've also got a shield to go with it, a little strap shield made with a spiraled foam strip.