Being a Viking who just got his AoA last month, and was apointed to the Royal Guard early this month, I thought it was about time I had something resembling a sword (You know… to fight off avenging Ex-Kings Guards as they try to retake the Throne). So on the Sunday after 12th Night, I bought myself a “Practical Viking” from Tariq at Renaissance Fence. Practical, because I could not afford the fantastic Live edged Viking sword he had (it was 4 times the price), and also, Practical means it’s for using right? 
The basic sword was very impersonal, and I would prefer a sword that looks like it has been made for me, and one that is decorated with personal badges and the like, so this weekend I set about modifying it slightly. So far all I have managed to do is add a recessed pewter badge to the wood of the scabbard. The rest of the plans include a traditional Viking style mounting for it, and either etching or chiseled artwork on the hilt, the pommel and even the blade. I shall be contacting Tariq to find out if the blade is pure polished steel before attempting anything, but I’m looking forward to continueing work on this sword.
Incidently, does anyone know proper SCAdian tradition for wearing swords to court? Is it allowed? Is it allowed but courtesy say best not to?
I’m pretty sure there are a couple of things you need to know. I am not absolutely 100% on whether those are rules or not. I’ll see what I can find out for you. I have a feeling there might be something about not drawing a blade in the presence of Royalty, that is only reserved for Knights as they are the King’s men.
Aha! So that’s what happened to your pewter casting! It looks great. Did engrave a shape to inlay it or is it glued, riveted? Spill it…
Oh and I’ll put one of the Satin Cast aside for you… call me with the cc and I’ll see if I can bring it to IKAAC. If not then perhaps I can get Mendoza to drop it to you at a Thursday in the Park?
It is inlayed… I need to do a little more work on it, and then Over-stain it and clean it up.
At the moment, it’s just recessed about 1mm and glued in with superglue, though it is also a tight fit. That one was the one that didn’t quite work. I would like to make it to the Park on Thursday… but I doubt I’m going to.