DEVA 2012

[Marcus Caecilius Avitus]

Piotr,

It's a good while since I posted but after such an event I thought it wortwhile. I'm glad you enjoyed the march Piotr , but I'm not sure you were at the same event es everyone else following the negative comments.

IMHO the the majority of kit was excellent. The poor kit was in the minority.

Comments on medieval mail Mordor/LARP - The only group that fitted this description (from my recollection) was Brittannia, but as they are late Romans this is correct.

I only saw 1 muscle cuirass.

Subarmalis - all Deva Victrux wore cowhide or padded linen subarmalis as did many other groups I saw :???:

What are bracers?

There were a few loose fitting segs, but no more that would have been seen in 70AD on Tiro's.

There were issues, there always are at events of this size, as organisers we try not be over critical of smaller groups starting out with less funds. Hopefully with inclusion and guidance they'll get better the more they mix with groups that have spot on kit. Enforcing standards is always a moot point. How far do you go? Hand beaten steel? Loom woven tunics? No canvas tents? You'll end up with an event with 2 milites ad: . the point of Deva is to show the might of the legion, therefore numbers are important. Bear in mind there was no plastic or cardboard kit. That we do enforce.

Whilst not fully enforced, our preference is to coduct all parades (regardless of weather)without Sagum or Paenulla, in order to show off the kit (check Josephus). I have to say I've tried a variety of oils for proofing armour, none of which works satisfactorily. Oil of any type goes rancid (oxidises) after a period, leaving a sitcky residue which attracts dust dirt and grime and can actually accelerate the rusting process. The only staisfactory solution I've found is to clean back any surface rust with a fine grit before it has a chance to develop and pit.

To all participants, reenactors, traders, authors supports staff etc; A HUGEthankyou for taking part. We really can't say a big enough thanks to those who stuck at it in terrible conditions on Sunday, adapted and made yet another successful event.

Looking forward to an even bigger event next year.