The rattan is light and is will absorb impact. These are typically used for more intense bouting and those wanting quicker blade work. Hickory is heavier, harder, stiffer, and hits harder. More simulating a real sword. Best for training, and controlled sparring.
This is a design developed with the help of Lee Smith of Blood and Iron in Canada. There is room for a thick gloved hand to fit in the the handle. Thus the glove will protect your wrist. The seams are stitched and protected with another thick layer of leather give the hilt a classic look and very strong.
We use on the thickest leather we can find. These have been used by the most serious HEMA fencers and even used of a few episode of the TV series "Elementary".
Orders for 3/4 inch rattan will be have a tolerance of 1/16" plus or minus on the thickness. Includes leather hand-guard.
