Battle Policy

River Ravens Combat Manifesto

All questions regarding arms, armor, and battle demonstrations should be directed to Kyle Jameson at FMRiverRavens@gmail.com.

As a living history group, presenting a historically accurate impression of the time period and regions we portray is very important. Some concessions may be made for safety’s sake, but not for aesthetic preferences, or to gain a competitive advantage.

All aspects of battle demonstration are governed by Regia’s policy. Those documents relevant to battle include the following:

• Child Protection Policy
• New AO Regulations for 2017
• Round Shield Designs
• Weapon Training Summary
• Rules of the Regia Battlefield
• Master at Arms Regulations
• The Warrior System

Code of Conduct

All combatants must fight safely.

Safety for one’s self, other combatants, and the public are required to take part in River Ravens combat. Combatants must demonstrate safe combat practices and battlefield conduct before being allowed to take part in River Ravens combat. Unsafe behavior will result in individuals being removed from the field until safe practices can be demonstrated. Continued unsafe behavior may result in a permanent ban. Safe combat practices will win you many friends on and off the field. Combatants must have health insurance. No alcohol may be consumed prior to battle demonstrations. Participants must be at least 1 years of age.

All combatants must fight with Honor and good sportsmanship.

A large part of River Ravens combat is weapon demonstrations and show fighting. It is as much for the public’s education and entertainment as for our own. It is important to remember that the only way we achieve victory on the field of battle is by putting on a good show for the crowd. Individual ego has not place in the show. Training and special events are the recommended venue for “real” combat.

Our combat is based on the honor system. If you receive a hit, take it. Hits to the limbs should be treated as a mortal wound, setting you up to be slain gloriously to the cheering of the blood-thirsty crowd. Hits to the kill zones on body should be treated as killing blows, regardless of how “light” a hit feels. Any accidental hit to the opponent’s head results in instant death to the attacker, with an apology verbally given upon exiting the field. Kill zones are the main body and the first segment of extremities (below the collar bone, above the knees, and above the elbows).If you feel like you delivered a fatal hit, but the recipient does not go down, continue combat. Never dispute the hit on the field. Remember a good show is our goal, nothing else. When in doubt, take the hit.

Practicing together and being familiar with what everyone considers a good hit will result in the best experience for combatants and spectators.

Hitting other combatants harder than is necessary is a good way to lose friends and make the battlefield an unhappy place. If a combatant gets carried away in their battle fury, as is bound to happen from time to time, take time to apologize after the show.

War Gear

War gear must be well maintained and in good condition. All war gear is subject to inspection before being allowed on the field. If a piece is found to be unsafe for combatants and or the public it may not be used on the field. Gear should not show any signs of modern manufacture.

Sharp weapons, knives and tools are never allowed on the field during combat. It is recommended that any unnecessary pieces of kit including pouches, cloaks, jewelry, etc., be left off the field.