Greetings East Kingdom Marshals
Important updates are coming from Society concerning the Fighters’ Handbook. In anticipation of these changes, we’re implementing two key safety measures that require your immediate attention.
Effective for September 1st, 2025 – Vambraces Required
All combatants must wear vambraces during armored combat. A strapped shield covering the entire forearm qualifies as an alternative; however, should that arm be needed to fight, the bout must be forfeited. With heavy use of polearms and greatswords in the East, forearm strikes are common and pose a significant injury risk—this change is enacted for your safety.
Effective for 2026 – Shield Hand-Guard Clarification
A recent revision to the Society Armored Combat Handbook removes the “safe hand” rule (previously based on a 4″ depth behind the shield). New, clearly defined specifications for acceptable hand-guards will be published in an upcoming document. We intend to begin compliance immediately following Pennsic to ensure our fighters are fully prepared for the 2026 Season. Your cooperation and commitment to these safety protocols are greatly appreciated.
In service to the Dream,
Sir Reinhart Earl Marshal, East Kingdom
Image source – Meister der Nea-Moni-Kirche in Chios, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
