Boffing

Boffing is the act of swordfighting with padded weapons called boffers. No modern weapons are used, though many groups have expanded their scopes to include bows, catapults, and other Medieval armaments. It is done purely for entertainment as an alternative to modern fencing. The movement has now expanded worldwide and enjoys representation in nearly all countries of the globe.

Boffing is often misassociated with LARPs (Live Action Role Playing) such as Amtgard and RPGs (Role Playing Game) such as Dungeons and Dragons. The connection is only due to the common mixed interests of the individual participants and has little to do with boffing itself.

The field of play varies indefinitely. Boffers fight anywhere: in old car lots, playgrounds, fields, or in boats. It is not an official sport and there are no official rules. Only the general goal of the game is preserved everywhere, which is to score a touch of some kind with your weapon upon your opponent. Rules differ radically from group to group. The items in common dispute are:

1. Padding, and amount thereof

2. Target areas

3. Grappling

4. Weaponry allowed

The most common reason for these disagreements is liability. Lawsuits and waivers often shape a group's ability to boff, as with hurling and rugby players.

Details on making boffer i.e. swords, shields, etc. of your own can be found at many LARP websites. Each group tend to enjoy their own variant on the basic sword designs. The most common materials by far are PVC, for the core, duct tape, for holding it together and for the handle, and open cell foam (pipe insulation), for the padding. Frequently used natural alternatives are bamboo, stuffed cotton, and cloth.

Boffing

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