Belt Pouch And Fencing Gorget

[5avan10]

The gorget is my first leather project, but I am only now getting around to photographing it because I still haven't quite finished it yet (needs padding inside, then I'll know how short to cut the straps). I'm not totally happy with the colors on it (too bright, looks like plastic) and if I had it to do over again I would do the tooling better (I'd had no practice at all when I did this one). The second picture is a belt pouch I just finished last night. I kept it simple since it was sort of an experimental project; I didn't have a pattern to go from so I just made one based on pictures from the net, making it big enough for my phone, wallet, keys and a few other possibles.

I always like positive feedback, but I also appreciate the kind that helps me improve, so feel free to let me know if you have any suggestions or critiques.

[Cogs]

So, how do you use that fencing gorget? My son has been a fencer for years and I've never seen nor heard of that.

Both projects look real good. Nice edges and stitching. I like the color on the belt pouch.

Bill

[5avan10]

Thanks, Bill. The gorget just buckles on around the neck. I fence with the SCA and they try for historical accuracy as much as possible, which may explain the reason why they require a gorget. The purpose is supposed to be to protect the throat primarily, but also covers the base of the spine (the flap goes in back over the spine). Modern fencing masks have some protection for the throat, which might be okay for epee/foil fencing, but it is simply not sufficient protection for some of the heavier schlagger/rapier blades that they sometimes use for fencing in the SCA.

Edited March 1, 2013 by 5avan10