Gentleman of Fortune

You kind of stumped me with the left handed thing... Have you thought about a smallsword? Cold Steel has a decent one and its just a tad over $225 http://www.trueswords.com/cold-steel-small...sms-p-1965.html GoF

Unfortunately, it would not have much of an effect. First, lets define the GAoP. You could make arguments for as early as 1670s to as late as 1730. If you google pirate captains, you should get some dates for when the were active. http://www.privateerdragons.com/pirates_famous.html The big hitters in the pirate world (Blackbeard, Rackham, Vane, England) that we associate with the GAoP are mostly active from around 1715-1722 (there are exceptions) so for sake of argument, lets say 1690-1725. At this point in time, fashions, in general, are moving from Baroque to Rococo and the GAoP is the nexus where these styles wax and wane. Adding to that, at this point in time, there are very few Naval specific weapons for personal use. In most cases, we see swords made for "land service" and fire arms made for Europe's Armies being incorporated for use at sea (often with no modification). So, in my opinion, we don't see a big shift in styles of weapons, or weapons that were made "Specifically" for sea use, till after the GAoP (again there are exceptions. So a sword that was good (like a clamshell hanger) that was made in 1690, is good through the entire GAoP. And swords made in 1715 still reflect the styling of the pre-1700 swords. And the whole time frame is like some black hole for reproductions as most of the market (up to now) has been for F&I and Rev war weapons that are too late for our period (but our period's stuff is still good for F&I and Rev War, go figure). Lots of generalizations, but I hope it helped. Greg aka GoF

Maybe i'm a little overzealous in offering my two cents.... So sometimes its like I'm the Johnny Appleseed of two cents scattering.... But, as it is a forum, and folks do ask questions, I feel compelled to answer. And at the end of the day, its best to do your own research and ask as many questions as you possibly can. That being said Roy. I think that the sword you already own serves the immediate purpose that you have. Now I can understand anyones need to buy something, as movement is progress, but if your intention is to eventually move towards authenticity, either of those swords will move you between $90 and $160 backwards in that goal. Or in other words, why buy a late 1770s sword, to replace an 1830s sword, with the intention of doing 1690-1720? But, I feel your pain, as there are not many alternatives out there (less than $300), that fit the bill. Digressing somewhat, where are you located? While a lot of pirate re-enactors are one man "shows", there really are a lot of benefits to joining a group. The group you associate with, could also have an impact on what kind of sword you buy. I know that Black John's Pirate Brethren out of MD/PA/VA do a lot of fencing/fighting amongst themselves (for the public and private events). If you join a group like that, it would behoove you to find out which swords they use so that you can have a compatible weapon. If you lucky, you are in the area of Amanjiria, who has few men and hot women in his crew. Good luck, and keep us abreast of any developments! GoF

First off... welcome aboard roy! Glad to have you here, and thanks for asking for opinions on these two swords! Second You know, I had absolutely no idea that there was a debate about Pirates vs Ninjas.... makes me kind of wonder where I have been for the last decade.... Anywhoo.... To your question. I have spent most of my time researching the various aspects of the Golden Age of Piracy (GAoP) and less so with the areas surrounding that time frame. But regardless, pirates have been infesting waterways as long as... well, you get the picture, so your question is best answered if we have an idea of the time frame you are trying to portray. IF You just want a sword to wear to a pirate festival or renfaire, I say go with the one that you like the best and if its a toss up, go with the cheaper one. If you want one to be part of a "living history" impression, that is, as part of a costume that tries to closely imitate actual historical pirates, then I would avoid both. The "Classic Pirate Cutlass" from DMTNT embodies what most people think of when they hear the word "cutlass". The problem is that these style elements really don't come into play until around the 1760s when they are seen on various horseman's sabers. The Classic Pirate Cutlass itself, seems to be a direct copy of a 1770s English pattern. So if you were doing a Revolutionary War Privateer, it would be great, but for GAoP, its too late. The Pirate Captain Hanger from MR is closer to the GAoP time frame than the sword above, and the exact date this sword comes into use is debatable, but its safe to say that it is a modification of the types of English hangers that are usually dated somewhere between 1725-1760. So depending on how liberal your definition of the dates for the GAoP are, you could at least make a case for this sword. It would be perfect of F&I and later impressions though. There has been a lot of discussion about "what swords are good for GAoP" at Black John's Pirate Brethren forum, and if interested, you should probably check that out. Good Luck GOF

You may find this interesting http://www.taths.org.uk/ GoF

Well..... I would imagine that if you googled "monmouth hat pattern" the first link would answer question #2 (and possibly question #1 as well). But "Monmouth" is a place in England where there was a large hat knitting industry. I could say more, but a lot has already been said by Karl Kostler on the subject at HistoricalTrekking.com I am just gonna cut and paste this, but its worth checking things out at http://www.historicaltrekking.com as its a valuable resource (and an interesting "classifieds area as well). And lastly, let me just say that Karl Koster is the bomb. I have seen his posts on several forums, and he always has incredible insight and a vast knowledge of all things 18th century (though i believe he re-enacts later 18th century). So, again, this ain't my work, its Karl Koster's. GoF

I have posted this before, but this seems to be as good as any to post again. Here is a montage of cocked hats from the GAoP That may help you come up with a style that satisfies your needs. Greg aka GoF

Did I mention that Ensigns were really big? While this is a late 18th example (and one to an Admirals ship ta boot), the point is that GAoP ones are really big too. GoF

Cool idea for a thread! Now if we can just find a cooper! GoF

I had to search around for a bit to find the dates for this... maybe we should have a stickied post for just event information... Maybe there is one already, but I couldn't find it to bump. So, for those looking for info about the EVENT itself, here you go FROM THE WEBSITE THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2007 1:30 - 3 p.m. - "Authors, Artists & Historians Sail" aboard Topsail Schooner WOLF. Join Capt. Finbar and authors Sandra Riley and Norma Miller. Tickets: $50/person. Meet at the WOLF (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Key West Historic Seaport. Reservations required, call (305) 296-9694. 7 - 8 p.m. - El Meson de Pepe's Caribbean Pirates Buffet & Silent Auction, Mallory Square, 411 Wall Street. Join the pirates for this festive dinner. Reservations & info: 305-296-9694. Cost: $20 per person, $10 per person for children under 12. (NOT CONFIRMED). FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2007 10:30 - Noon - Tall Ship Sea Battle and Pirate Attack on Fort Taylor aboard the schooner Wolf. Tickets $50/person. Meet at the WOLF (1/2 hour prior to departure) at the Historic Seaport. Reservations required, call 305-296-9694. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Fest, Pirate Pub and Village Thieves' Market featuring living history pirate encampments, His Royal Majesty's Military Forces, period clothing, arts and crafts, pirate treasure and black powder weapons demonstrations. Entertainment includes strolling minstrels & combative stunt men inside Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Call 305-292-6713 for more info. Festival Pass: $4/adults and $2/children under 12 with park admission. *3-Day Weekend Pass $10/adults & $5/children under 12 with park admission. 10:45 - 11 a.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Battle Land Force Artillery on Parade Grounds, Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. FREE with park admission. Witness the battle as the pirates fight against their mortal enemies, the British Red Coats. Call 305-292-6850 for more info. FREE with park admission. 1:30 - 3 p.m. - Tall Ship Sea Battle and Pirate Attack on Fort Taylor aboard the schooner WOLF. Tickets $50/person. Meet at the WOLF (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Key West's Historic Seaport. Reservations required, call (305) 296-9694. 2 - 2:15 p.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Battle Land Force Artillery on Parade Grounds, Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Witness the battle as the pirates fight against their mortal enemies, the King's Royal Marines. FREE with park admission. Call 305-292-6713 for more info. FREE with park admission. 3 - 4:30 p.m. - Walk the Plank Championship Sail aboard Topsail schooner WOLF. Tickets $50/person. Meet at the WOLF (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Key West's Historic Seaport. Reservations required, call (305) 296-9694. 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. - 3rd Annual National Walk the Plank Championships. Victims (uhh, contestants) will vie for the honor and glory of becoming the 2007 Champion as they dive to the watery grave off the Pier House, pleading for their miserable lives and competing for valuable prizes. Reservations required, call (305) 296-9694. 3:30 - 6 p.m. - Official End of America's Hurricane Season Beach Party at the Pier House Resort, One Duval Street. NOAA's weather forecaster Matt Strahan and his weather crew will be on hand to symbolically signify the end of this year's Hurricane Season.. FREE 5 - 6:30 p.m. - Tall Ship Sea Battle aboard the schooner Wolf. Tickets $50/person. Meet at the WOLF (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Key West's Historic Seaport. Reservations required, call (305) 296-9694. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2007 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Fest, Pirate Pub and Village Thieves' Market featuring living history pirate encampments, His Royal Majesty's Military Forces, Pyrate Tryal of Anne Bonny & Mary Read, period clothing, arts and crafts, pirate treasure, storytellers, fight circles, treasure hunts, black powder weapons demonstrations, and kids' pirate school. Entertainment includes strolling minstrels & combative stunt men inside Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Call 305-292-6713 for more info. Festival Pass: $4/adults and $2/children under 12 with park admission. *3-Day Weekend Pass $10/adults & $5/children under 12 with park admission. 11 a.m. - Noon - Historic Reenactment of the "Pyrate Tryal of Anne Bonny & Mary Read." Based on official trial transcripts of these infamous female pirates. Pirate Fest and Village Market inside Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Call 305-292-6713 for more info. Festival Pass: $4/adults and $2/children under 12 with park admission. 1:30 - 3 p.m. - Tall Ship Sail & Pirate Attacks aboard Topsail Schooner Wolf. $50/person ($25/children under 12.) Meet at the Wolf (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Historic Seaport. Reservations required; call (305) 296-9694. 2 - 2:15 p.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Battle Land Force Artillery on Parade Grounds, Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Witness the battle as the pirates fight against their mortal enemies, the British Red Coats. Call 305-292-6713 for more information. FREE with park admission. 5 - 6:30 p.m. - Sunset Sails & Pirate Attacks aboard Schooner Wolf. Tickets $50/person ($25/children under 12.) Meet at the Wolf (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Historic Seaport. Reservations required, call 305-296-9694. 7 - 9 p.m. - Key West Lighted Holiday Parade. Join the scurvy pirates for this parade. Best viewing for this holiday-spirited parade is along Truman and Duval streets. FREE. 8 - Midnight - Queen of Swing Norma Miller's 87th Birthday Bash - A Tribute to the Legends of Jazz and Swing (location and details to be announced) Dance to the Big Band Sounds of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Cab Calloway and other favorites...and see film clips from John Biffar's documentary on Ms. Miller, The Queen of Swing. (LOCATION TO BE ANNOUNCED) SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2007 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Fest, Pirate Pub and Village Thieves' Market featuring living history pirate encampments, His Royal Majesty's Military Forces, period clothing, arts and crafts, pirate treasure, storytellers, fight circles, treasure hunts, black powder weapons demonstrations, and kids' pirate school. Entertainment includes strolling minstrels & combative stunt men inside Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Call 305-292-6713 for more info. Festival Pass: $4/adults & $2/children under 12 with park admission. *3-Day Weekend Pass $10/adults & $5/children under 12 with park admission. 1:30 p.m. - Tall Ship Sail & Pirate Attacks aboard Topsail Schooner Wolf. $50/person ($25/children under 12.) Meet at the Wolf (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Historic Seaport. Reservations required; call (305) 296-9694. 2 - 2:15 p.m. - Fort Taylor Pirate Battle Land Force Artillery on Parade Grounds, Fort Taylor Historic State Park, end of Southard St. through Truman Annex. Witness the battle as the pirates fight against their mortal enemies, the British Red Coats. Call 305-292-6713 for more information. FREE with park admission. 5 - 6:30 p.m. - Sunset Sail & Pirate Attack aboard Topsail Schooner Wolf. $50/person ($25/children under 12.) Meet at the Wolf (1/2 hour prior to departure) at Historic Seaport. Reservations required; call (305) 296-9694. 5 - ?? p.m. - Scurvy Crew Cast Party on the "Ramparts" inside the fort at Fort Taylor Historic State Park. (Private event not open to public).

I really like the skeleton. It looks like a period depiction, not a motley cru style biker skeleton. Of course, the proof is always in the pudding. It would be nice to see the design on some wool bunting... say 9' x 14' GoF

How are things at the tropico resort? Open for business? I swear I am going to get there some day! GoF

This thread should probably be a sticky one... as this question gets asked a lot and its a pretty darn good reply. Hats of to Amanjiria GoF

Thanks Foxe, I will edit my earlier post to avoid confusing anyone stumbling on to the post. By the way, do you have a source for more info on bunting (for width/breadth)? Greg aka GoF

whoooa nelly. Fabulous. How hard was the project? GoF

Oh... so they weren't big, they were freakin huge! Also, pay attention to the chart in the sense that it describes the "height" of the flag (Hoist) in Breadths of 11'' (while the length or "Fly" is stated in yards). The bunting came in/was woven in widths of just 11", so multiply the number of widths you need (in Foxe's chart) by 11" to get the number of inches it is tall. So the flag for a Yacht size boat (which might have 4-6 guns) would have be 14.6 FEET tall (4.8 yards) by 27 FEET (9 yards) long. So to make a historically accurate Naval ensign, you would need to find wool bunting, cut it down to **EDIT** 22" wide and 27 feet long, and sew 8 of them together by hand. Now put yourself in the shoes of a pirate. You have a ship with probably a stock of different flags (signaling, ensigns, etc) and you need a pirate flag. Well you take what you got, and make a pirate flag. Which may help to explain the various colors of pirate flags in the late 17th and Early 18th centuries. Greg aka GoF

Black Fox Great pictures! Thanks for getting them up so fast for us to look at. Just one thing though... if the mag goes to print... its Kalmar Nyckel http://www.kalmarnyckel.org/ Greg aka GoF

Lets not forget linen either, cool too wear and historically correct. you can also google hemp canvas or hemp fabric and find something. GoF

I have this information somewhere but its tucked away and I will have to find it.... but I think that for ships of the line, it can be a relation to either mast size or keel length, but I could be wrong, so let me snoop around. That being said, here is some info from a flag site: More interesting stuff here Ships Flags for Model Builders The bottom line, is that these things are huge. If you are extending this to pirate flag dimensions, those should be huge too. Remember, the purpose of a pirate flag was not to have a cool 3 x 5 flag to hang in your bedroom. The purpose is to scare the living daylights out of another ship so that they surrendered without a fight. So to do this you had to be able to readily communicate this fact, and thus, a big flag. GoF

They set the Memorial Day Weekend record (even without the Thursday night cheating/Head start...) But it looks like $piderman III still holds the record. http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/Movies/05/...e.ap/index.html Sorry Folks. Greg

Can you turn it inside out? I think its the wrong way around. Here it is for you click challenged GoF

Robert Redford probably resembles me the most.... But how about Lon Chaney Jr... no wait.... Jack Palance.

I was searching for a particular post by Pat Hand... which wasn't easy as I noticed he has 3707 posts! Then with a few more clicks I noticed he is one of the top 10 all-time pub posters! (of course, that is just about 1/3rd of Christine's postings) Sheeesh! Carpal Tunnel? GoF

OK Pat, what is the status here? Greg

First.... Welcome to the Piracy pub! I see that this is your first post, and I hope you stick around as its an interesting place and fun hobby. Your axe. I am not qualified to tell you "yes" (or "no" for that matter), as boarding axes from the GAoP are EXTREMELY rare. And anything made before can be made again. But here is a place I would check out and post your question again http://members.tripod.com/tomahawks-r-tatca/id71.htm Its an axe collector site. A lot of the info that I have shows langets (metal strips between head and wood to protect shaft and secure head to shaft), but that doesn't mean that yours wasn't re-shafted at some point. Also, there were a lot of spike axes made as trade goods for the Indians, and some of these were spike-head varieties. I have never held an original GAoP boarding axe in my hands, but the descriptions I have read say that they are a little hardier or more robust than the spike tomahawks. And lastly, even if it is an older reproduction, it one wicked sweet boarding axe that I would not hesitate to have in my kit bag. Great find (and refind!) Greg aka GoF