Furca Reconstruction

[center108]

So I'm thinking about making a furca, and I happened to come in possession of a large amount of Elm shafts. My question is, is that a type of would that would have used and Should I take the time to make one out of it or should I go and buy dowels to make it?

All comments and advice is much appreciated.

[agrimensor]

look at these
http://www.romanarmytalk.com/20-roman-re...furca.html

[66kbm]

This is worth reading as well.
http://www.legiiavg.org.uk/index_files/Page32663.htm
Kevin

[agrimensor]

@kevin ,maybe there is a possibility that if the furcapole is about 1.8 metrs it can (if you have 5 ) be used as tentpoles???

[66kbm]

Possibly, we have yet to try this in our group.
Kevin

[center108]

Thank you all for the articles, but it still doesn't answer my question if elm shafts would be a good wood to use for one?

[66kbm]

I have always been told that Ash is the best wood to use. I cannot see a problem with you using the Elm wood though. Use a sturdy branch 1.5 to 2 inch diameter. This may sound large but just you wait till you have all your kit on that pole.....it gets very heavy.
Kevin

[center108]

Thank you. I was also doing some research into the grains of woods and how their makeups look and it appears that Elm and Ash share a very close resemblance in the makeup of their grains. Maybe not in coloring, but in how they grow.

Thanks again for all the replies.

[66kbm]

Re the kit on the pole....before you mount the gear, no matter what method you choose for construction, think...what do I actually need? Rather than the sculpture shows this or matey has that on his. think of the things YOU need to march with.
Kevin