Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown User Manual

1. Introduction

The Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown is a specialized sparring sword designed for Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) longsword practice. It is engineered to be light, fast, and safe for training purposes, catering to beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

This feder features a blade designed for safe thrusting, with flexibility in the last third while maintaining stiffness for binding. Key design elements include a flared tip for safety (which can be further enhanced with additional protective gear), a ramped thumb guard for improved grip transitions, and a pommel indexed to the blade's flat for consistent edge alignment. The grip is constructed with a wood core, a well-rounded rectangular cross-section, and a tightly bound cord overwrap for a secure hold.

Figure 1: Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown. This image displays the Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown. It features a long, slender silver-colored blade, a crossguard, and a brown-wrapped handle with a pommel. The design is typical of a feder, intended for HEMA sparring.

2. Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when handling the Sport Feder. While designed for sparring, improper use can still lead to injury. Adhere to the following guidelines:

• Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate HEMA-specific protective gear, including a mask, gorget, gloves, and body protection, when sparring or performing drills with a partner.
• Supervision: Beginners should always train under the supervision of a qualified HEMA instructor.
• Environment: Ensure your training area is clear of obstacles and provides sufficient space for safe movement.
• Inspection: Before each use, inspect the feder for any damage, including cracks in the blade, loose components, or wear on the grip. Do not use a damaged feder.
• Intended Use: This feder is designed for HEMA sparring and training. Do not use it for cutting, thrusting against hard targets, or any purpose other than its intended design.
• Storage: Store the feder securely in a location inaccessible to children and unauthorized individuals.

3. Setup

The Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown comes ready for use. Minimal setup is required.

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the feder from its packaging. Retain packaging for future storage or transport if desired.
2. Initial Inspection: Perform a thorough visual inspection of the entire feder. Check the blade for any bends, nicks, or cracks. Ensure the crossguard and pommel are securely attached and that the grip is firm and intact.
3. Tip Protection (Optional but Recommended): While the tip is slightly flared for safety, it is highly recommended to fit a rubber or plastic tip protector, or a leather mask, for an added degree of safety, especially during partnered sparring.
4. Grip Check: Ensure the cord overwrap on the wood core grip is tight. If it feels loose, it may require re-wrapping or adjustment by a qualified individual.

4. Operating the Sport Feder

The Sport Feder is designed for HEMA longsword training. Its characteristics support various aspects of historical fencing.

4.1. Handling and Grip

• Two-Handed Grip: The extended handle is designed for a two-handed grip, providing leverage and control.
• Thumb Placement: The ramped thumb guard facilitates easy placement of a gloved thumb onto and off the blade, aiding in specific guard transitions and techniques.
• Edge Alignment: The pommel is indexed to the flat of the blade, which assists in instinctively distinguishing proper edge alignment with the rearward hand during complex maneuvers.

4.2. Sparring and Drills

• Thrusting Safety: The blade's flexibility in the last third is intended to absorb impact during thrusts, reducing the risk of injury. Always thrust with control and awareness of your partner.
• Binding: The stiffness of the main blade section ensures effective binding and blade control during engagements.
• Controlled Practice: Always engage in controlled sparring and drills. The feder is a training tool, not a weapon for uncontrolled combat.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance will extend the life and ensure the safety of your Sport Feder.

5.1. Cleaning

• Blade: After each use, wipe the blade clean with a dry cloth to remove sweat, dirt, and moisture. Apply a thin coat of light oil (e.g., mineral oil, gun oil, or specialized sword oil) to the blade to prevent rust.
• Grip: Keep the grip clean and dry. Avoid excessive moisture, which can damage the wood core or cord wrapping.
• Crossguard and Pommel: Wipe these metal components clean and apply a light oil to prevent corrosion.

5.2. Storage

• Store the feder in a dry environment to prevent rust and material degradation.
• Ideally, store horizontally or vertically in a sword stand or rack, ensuring it is not under stress or pressure.
• Keep away from extreme temperatures and humidity fluctuations.

5.3. Inspection

• Regularly inspect the feder for any signs of wear, fatigue, or damage, especially at the blade-to-crossguard junction and the tang.
• Check for any looseness in the crossguard or pommel. If any component feels loose or damaged, discontinue use immediately and consult a professional for repair.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common concerns that may arise with your Sport Feder.

7. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown:

8. Warranty and Support

8.1. Warranty Information

The Dragon Squama Sport Feder SM36070 Brown comes with a 30-day warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, improper maintenance, accidents, or normal wear and tear. For warranty claims, please retain your proof of purchase.

8.2. Customer Support

For technical assistance, questions regarding product use, or warranty inquiries, please contact the manufacturer, CAS Iberia, or your authorized retailer. Refer to their official website for the most current contact information.

Note: Always refer to the latest information provided by the manufacturer for the most accurate and up-to-date support details.