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How to Make LARP Boffers

A boffer is a padded "sword" used in LARP (live action role playing) games so that the players can safely simulate combat. A boffer has a regulated length that can vary from club to club. When constructing a LARP boffer, make sure to follow all guidelines for your particular club. Use PVC pipe and a pool noodle to create a padded weapon that will act somewhat like a real sword without inflicting any serious damage to opponents.

Things You'll Need

Measuring tape
3/4-inch PVC pipe
Hand saw
2 pool noodles
Permanent marker
Duct tape

Instructions

- 1
  Cut a 34-inch length of PVC pipe using the hand saw. Cut one pool noodle to 34 inches in length. Cut 4 inches of noodle off the 34-inch piece and set aside.
- 2
  Mark the 24-inch line on the PVC pipe with a permanent marker. From the other end, mark another line at 2 inches from the end.
- 3
  Push the pipe through the 30-inch piece of pool noodle. Align the end of the pool noodle with the 24-inch mark on the pipe. You may have to twist the noodle as you push the pipe into place if the noodle has a smaller opening than normal.
- 4
  Fit the small piece of noodle over the base of the handle to the 2-inch mark.
- 5
  Cover the boffer with duct tape. Apply a vertical line of tape from the exposed part of pipe up the "blade" over the tip and back down to the exposed pipe on the other side of the blade. Repeat the vertical application of the duct tape until the entire blade is covered.
- 6
  Wrap the handle base in duct tape using the same vertical application process. Tape the exposed part of the pipe horizontally to secure the other tape in place.

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