"gauge for brass rod 28mm spears?" Topic

I ordered a batch of the Perry spears from Neal at the Warstore and unfortunately they aren't in stock. Even more unfortunate is Perry's refusal to answer Neal's request to send him some. Since I've been waiting about a month I'm thinking about just making some myself (I don't want cast bendy spears). My medieval germans are getting tired of holding empty fists in the air.

Anyhoo, I'm guessing I can get some rods at a, relatively, nearby model train shop. What gauge brass rods should I be looking for? Thanks for any help.

p.s. this post is not an indictment of the Warstore, which is in my opinion a top-notch online store.

Cheers!
~OD

I use 3/64 for 28mm lances and spears, but also 1/32 for relatively thin/shorter items. You might get a pack of each or take a figure with you to get a feel for the fit.

I have two local shops that have displays, but getting them to keep them filled is a problem.
So, I grab the 3/64 whenever I can.
They come in packs of 6 for a buck, so it will not hurt you to get a few to bracket that dimension.

I also find them useful for pinning, replacing cannon barrels, etc.

I have also made the "trident" type French SYW flagpole finial by hammering the tip flat, and shaing it with a Dremel.

Brass rod will also cut easily with rail or sprue cutters. Steel rod can damage the fine edge of these tools.

Thanks folks. Looks like I'll make the trip to the train shop today. I have to remember to leave the credit cards behind. I have no self control in places like that.

Cheers!
~OD

Take a figure with you.
That's the best way to decide.

Thats odd, whenever I let my figures decide they tell me to use my credit card!

Hi OD,

Jessica often has North Star spears in at Viking Hobby.

*** How are the Germanic crossbow coming along? ***

Shabbat Shalom,
Maksim-Smelchak.
6mm-minis.blogspot.com

I HIGHLY recommend steel piano wire. A lot tougher and resilient than brass. If you actually manage to bend it, it is tough to straighten, but it is a risk I'd take any day. 1/32 or 3/64 sounds about right to be as well.

Thanks everyone. It occurred to me to test the diameter I want by using my dremel drill bits. Looks like 3/64 is dead-on. The downside is the local train shop doesn't carry that size. I guess I'll have to order online.

Hey Maks- The x-bowmen are coming along nicely. Just need to paint up a few of the detail bits (pouches, shoes, belts, and such) and they're done.

Cheers!
~OD

Norscaman-
I'm not familiar with piano wire. Would I be able to crimp it at the end to make the spearheads? I'd rather not have to hammer it.

~OD

Gripping Beast sells 100 mm pike/spears with leaf shaped points, around 80 per pack. If too long, you can cut down and use the remainder to make more spears.

You can't crimp piano wire. It is too hard. You have to pound the tip flat, and grind it. Then, you have a REAL weapon, which is why I don't like steel. Brass is bad enough.