09-22-2012, 05:10 PM
Quote:Joe,
Poplar is a great option (used by ancients - for hoplons as well). My suggestion, however, is go to a flagpole manufacturer. They should carry a 1" diameter X 8' pole that is more period-correct (size-wise) albeit in oak. All you need do is cut off the finial, shape the ends and torch-temper the shaft.
I have a friend who owns a bronze Spartan artifact spearhead from the Persian War period and it fits a 7/8" diameter shaft perfectly. Somehow we have been taught that bigger is better, but I think, once you have tried this thinner diameter, you will be amazed at the difference in agility a thinner shaft affords the wielder.
What a great idea! I had not considered a flag pole supplier for a dory shaft, 1" diameter is perfect, this site offers an 8' version for $21.70 plus shipping:
http://www.gettysburgflag.com/flag_poles_rPH.php
The only caveat is that it appears to be varnished, hm, perhaps they would ship one unfinished..
_____________________________________________________
Mark Hayes
"The men who once dwelled beneath the crags of Mt Helicon, the broad land of Thespiae now boasts of their courage"
Philiades
"So now I meet my doom. Let me at least sell my life dearly and have a not inglorius end, after some feat of arms that shall come to the ears of generations still unborn"
Hektor, the Iliad
Mark Hayes
"The men who once dwelled beneath the crags of Mt Helicon, the broad land of Thespiae now boasts of their courage"
Philiades
"So now I meet my doom. Let me at least sell my life dearly and have a not inglorius end, after some feat of arms that shall come to the ears of generations still unborn"
Hektor, the Iliad
