Hi Sean,

Thanks for the kind words.

There are lots of re-enactment groups out there with all manner of different emphases and styles. The group I’m involved with is the SCA, which is a worldwide organisation and thus very likely to have people near you. They don’t use steel weapons, but fight with a period alternative that’s safer and allows for real combat.

Most groups would be able to lend you some basic kit until you’re able to obtain your own. My advice would be to contact the SCA or some other group of your choice, go along to a meeting and see how things go from there. If you’re in the UK, I can put you in touch with people who can help.