Martial Activities

Developed over the 50 years of its existence The Society for Creative Anachronism’s Marshall activities are intended to closely produce the thrill of participating in archery, battles and equestrian scenarios while still keeping our members safe.

The range of marshal activities include:

Archery Activities

The archery at SCA events has some limitations for fun and safety. To establish the medieval atmosphere compound bows are not allowed. Arrows are limited to wood. Aluminum and carbon fiber shafts are not allowed. It is common to see cross bows, long bows, horse bows and a variety of modern re-curve bows on the archery range. If you would like to begin participating in archery activities, it is suggested that you should check out your local archery practice or simply stop by the archery field at an event and talk to some of the marshals and archers.

Equestrian Activities

There are a variety of equestrian activities that occur at SCA events. Beyond the ‘jousting’ at the very large events, there are equestrian games that are held. As any horse owner knows, there are costs associated with the equestrian activities. If you would like more information about participating with equestrian activities at SCA events, we suggest contacting your local equestrians or dropping by the equestrian area at an event.

Rattan Combat Activities

Rattan combat has requirements for the safety of participants. There are armor requirements and weapons requirements. Armor and weapons are inspected before participants fight. The weapons for rattan combat uses rattan shafts to replace the swords, axes and spears from tournament fighting in the middle ages. The rattan breaks in such a way as to not splinter and have enough give to prevent most injury.

The armor required for the armored rattan combat has requirements for the coverage of heads and hands, knees and elbows as well as throat protection and kidney protection. Some people utilize armor that is very historically correct, others have limited budgets and use covers and concessions to allow for fiscally viable options.

It is strongly suggested that people wanting to begin participating in the heavy combat should check out their local fighter practice or simply stop by the fighting field at an event and talk to some of the marshals and fighters. Look at the options that are available for armor and familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of each style before making any commitments.

Combat Archery

What would recreation of combat in the middle ages be without archery? Using blunted arrows that are safe while wearing armor, you can experience a melee and shoot arrows at moving targets without hurting anyone. In order to participate you must 'authorize' as a rattan combat fighter. This is a great way to take your archery practice to the next level while having a lot of fun!

Steel (Cut & Thrust) Combat Activities

A lot of people who see our Cut and Thrust combat often mistake it for fencing. There are requirements for armor and blades used in the practice. The armor is often garments made with the required layers of fabric needed to make the garment puncture resistant. It is also common for fighters to start with fencing masks modified with a rigid back to protect the back of the head as well.

The swords have requirements for strength and flexibility. There are several online shops where the swords can be purchased. It is strongly suggested that people wanting to begin participating in the cut and thrust combat should check out their local fighter practice or simply stop by the fighting field at an event and talk to some of the marshals and fighters. Look at the options that are available for armor and familiarize yourself with the pros and cons of each style before making any commitments.

Thrown Weapons Activities

Thrown weapons at events often have spears, axes and knives. Sometimes there is loaner gear available for people to try. If people want to buy their own there are online stores where the equipment can be purchased.

Youth Combat Activities

Youth members under 16 years of age can participate in the youth combat activities. There are requirements of armor and padded weapons. Youth combat marshals are able to provide the information needed for people to participate and the best ways to proceed