Belegarth

Back in my salad days, I made a blue sword using a bandshoppe core (really stupid, I know). Since then I've made and bought better swords, but have kept this one around as a loaner. Lately, it has been failing weapons check. I even put all new foam on it and beat it in (a little) but it still fails. Asking for advice, one person has said to put an extra layer of blue on it. Another has said to put a layer of marine foam all along the striking surface. Another has said that it may not be salvagable at all because the core has no flex to it or something. I want to save this sword because I may start a fighter practice soon (there is not one in my area) and will need as many loaners as possible. Of course I plan to make more swords, but I have a limited budget and every sword counts. I would really appreciate some advice. Thank you.

Can you describe the types of foam on it right now? Number of layers and type please...thanks!

Exactly how long is the sword, as well?

It is about 33 inches, tip to base of pomel, and made with 3 layers of blue camp mat.

I think maybe the blue foam is not forgiving enough for that type of core. The best (easiest) thing you could do is probably to replace a middle or out layer with 2lb EVA foam (gray, squishy, 0.5" thick). You could try an additional layer of the blue if you can't get a softer specialty foam. Those would be quick fixes.

If you get the right foam, there is no reason why the flex would matter. People build reds with these cores.

Decent chance you may not be able to save it due to the core stiffness. 32" on bandpole is going to be rock solid, you could pad it up enough to pass, but you will never want to use it due to its weight and bulk, unless you want a trainer to force you to have perfect shot placement and control. Otherwise I would write it off and go get some solid fiberglass in 1/2"

I would go with 3/4" yoga mat. Its similar to the marine foam, so that may work as well. I would do 1 layer of camp pad and then the yoga mat. If that doesn't make it pass, I don't think anything will.