Craft & Combat
Combat
Got any ideas on building a wooden training sword that feels like real steel but is lighter for endurance drills?
Craft
Sure, start with a light hardwood core like maple or birch, then laminate thin veneers of oak or walnut around it for extra stiffness. Glue the layers with a good marine epoxy, clamp it tight and let it cure overnight. Once the core is firm, sand it smooth, then add a thin steel blade edge along the back – that gives the realistic feel without the weight. Finish the handle with a cork or foam wrap to keep it light but comfortable, and seal everything with a clear coat so it holds up to sweat and drills.
Combat
Nice plan—wood core with a steel edge will feel solid but still let you drill for hours. Just double‑check the edge isn’t too sharp for practice, or you’ll cut yourself. Use a thick grip tape so you can catch that 60‑minute conditioning session. When you’re ready, hit the bag and show those drills a good time.
Craft
Sounds good. Just file the steel edge to a 30‑degree bevel and sand it smooth so it’s blunt enough for practice. A heavy‑grip tape around the handle will give you the friction you need, and a little leather guard over the edge can keep it from snagging. Once it’s all set, a solid hit on the bag will tell you if the weight feels right and the balance works for your drills. Good luck with the conditioning session.
Combat
Nice tweak—blunt but still sharp enough to feel real. Just keep an eye on that guard; if it drags you off the bag it’ll kill your rhythm. Time the hit, gauge the swing, tweak the weight, and then push the limits. Don’t settle for “good enough,” make that conditioning count.