Rapier:Equipment standards - Drop tester - Revision history

AngeleDeSavigny: Approved for commentary by the Board of Directors 25 January 2026 as part of Cut & Thrust

2026-01-30T09:40:00Z

Approved for commentary by the Board of Directors 25 January 2026 as part of Cut & Thrust

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:40, 30 January 2026
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	*1 inch (25 mm) nominal diameter and 18 inches (450 mm) long Black Pipe stub from any do-it-yourself/hardware store, plumbing supply house, etc.. Black Pipe is heavy, iron pipe used for natural gas.		*1 inch (25 mm) nominal diameter and 18 inches (450 mm) long Black Pipe stub from any do-it-yourself/hardware store, plumbing supply house, etc.. Black Pipe is heavy, iron pipe used for natural gas.
	*1 inch (25 mm) nominal plastic cap for the Black Pipe (screws onto end of pipe)		*1 inch (25 mm) nominal plastic cap for the Black Pipe (screws onto end of pipe)
	*0.156 inch (5/32 inch (4 mm) "plus tolerance" diameter gage pin, 2-inch length, Class Z (0.0001 inch or 0.003 mm tolerance) or ZZ (0.0002 inch or 0.005 mm tolerance).		*0.156 inch (5/32 inch (4 mm)) "plus tolerance" diameter gage pin, 2-inch length, Class Z (0.0001 inch or 0.003 mm tolerance) or ZZ (0.0002 inch or 0.005 mm tolerance).
	*: A gage pin was found to have a more consistent edge, or shoulder, than other types of bar stock. If the edge is too sharp or too rounded, the results of the drop test will be affected.		*: A gage pin was found to have a more consistent edge, or shoulder, than other types of bar stock. If the edge is too sharp or too rounded, the results of the drop test will be affected.
	*drill bit stop or collar (piece that goes on to a drill bit to set the depth of a hole)		*drill bit stop or collar (piece that goes on to a drill bit to set the depth of a hole)
	*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)		*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)
	*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (~~760~~ mm)		*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 23.6 inches (600 mm).
	3-inch ~~PVC~~ 3-inch Male ~~Adp.~~ DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18-2.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.2. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (left), hose clamps (right)]]		3-inch by 3-inch 3-inch Male Adapter PVC DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18-2.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.2. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (left), hose clamps (right)]]
	*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)		*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)

AngeleDeSavigny: /* Step 2: Make the drop probe */

2025-11-26T08:58:50Z

Step 2: Make the drop probe

← Older revision		Revision as of 08:58, 26 November 2025
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	#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.		#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.
	#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure 18.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.		#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure 18.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.
	#:#:[[File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18.3.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]		#:[[File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18.3.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]
	#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).		#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).
	#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.		#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.

AngeleDeSavigny at 07:44, 26 November 2025

2025-11-26T07:44:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:44, 26 November 2025
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	==Procedures for using the drop tester==		==Procedures for using the drop tester==
	<P>The basic idea behind this test is to drop a known weight a known distance to give a known impact, giving a pass/fail verdict to "unknown" fencing armor. This document will tell you how to use the tester to test armor. See [[Rapier:~~Testing_Methods_For_Penetration_Resistant_Armor~~#Procedures_for_creating_a_drop_tester\|above]] for how to choose and build these items. You should have all six pieces shown in Figure 18.5, below, including a guide tube, drop probe (unique to your tester), 3-inch threaded PVC flange, two hose clamps and a screw driver or nut clamp to tighten the hose clamps.		<P>The basic idea behind this test is to drop a known weight a known distance to give a known impact, giving a pass/fail verdict to "unknown" fencing armor. This document will tell you how to use the tester to test armor. See [[Rapier:Equipment_standards_-_Drop_tester#Procedures_for_creating_a_drop_tester\|above]] for how to choose and build these items. You should have all six pieces shown in Figure 18.5, below, including a guide tube, drop probe (unique to your tester), 3-inch threaded PVC flange, two hose clamps and a screw driver or nut clamp to tighten the hose clamps.
	<P>You should only use your probe with the guide tube it was designed for. Interchanging these items between testers may produce inaccurate results.		<P>You should only use your probe with the guide tube it was designed for. Interchanging these items between testers may produce inaccurate results.
	[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-5.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure 18.5 - Parts needed for Drop Tester for rapier and cut and thrust armor.]]		[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-5.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure 18.5 - Parts needed for Drop Tester for rapier and cut and thrust armor.]]

AngeleDeSavigny: update image

2025-11-25T20:14:16Z

update image

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:14, 25 November 2025
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	#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.		#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.
	#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure 18.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.		#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure 18.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.
	#:#:[[File:~~Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3a~~.jpg\|thumb\|~~240px~~\|Figure 18.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]		#:#:[[File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18.3.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]
	#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).		#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).
	#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.		#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.

AngeleDeSavigny at 20:11, 25 November 2025

2025-11-25T20:11:57Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:11, 25 November 2025
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	*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)		*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)
	*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)		*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)
	3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[~~File:~~File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18-2.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.2. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (left), hose clamps (right)]]		3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18-2.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.2. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (left), hose clamps (right)]]
	*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)		*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)

AngeleDeSavigny: update image

2025-11-25T20:11:32Z

update image

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:11, 25 November 2025
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	*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)		*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)
	*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)		*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)
	3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:~~Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3~~-2a.jpg\|thumb\|~~240px~~\|Figure 18.2a. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV]]		3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:File:Rapier_Handbook_2025_Figure_18-2.jpg\|thumb\|\|Figure 18.2. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (left), hose clamps (right)]]
	*2 hose clamps~~, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range~~ (~~large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above~~)~~[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2b.jpg\|thumb\|300px\|Figure 18.2b. Hose clamps.~~]]
	*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)		*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)

AngeleDeSavigny: updated figure numbers

2025-11-25T20:07:15Z

updated figure numbers

AngeleDeSavigny: /* Procedures for using the drop tester */

2025-11-25T20:04:12Z

Procedures for using the drop tester

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:04, 25 November 2025
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	#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-6.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.6 - Fabric clamped onto flange with two hose clamps. Notice that the second one will protrude a bit above the level of the fabric with thicker fabrics, but it should still be tight if you push everything down enough.]]		#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-6.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.6 - Fabric clamped onto flange with two hose clamps. Notice that the second one will protrude a bit above the level of the fabric with thicker fabrics, but it should still be tight if you push everything down enough.]]
	#Then, place the guide tube on the center of the clamped fabric. Steady it with one hand, trying not to push downward on the fabric.		#Then, place the guide tube on the center of the clamped fabric. Steady it with one hand, trying not to push downward on the fabric.
	# Put the drop probe into the guide tube, lowering it to roughly the mark that shows where to drop it from, and slowly tilt the guide tube back and forth until the drop probe seems to hang freely, not lying against a side. (You are using the drop probe like a plumb bob to get everything vertical.) Line up the mark exactly with the top of the guide tube, and drop the probe. It should look like Figure ~~7 below~~ just before you drop it.		# Put the drop probe into the guide tube, lowering it to roughly the mark that shows where to drop it from, and slowly tilt the guide tube back and forth until the drop probe seems to hang freely, not lying against a side. (You are using the drop probe like a plumb bob to get everything vertical.) Line up the mark exactly with the top of the guide tube, and drop the probe. It should look like Figure 1. just before you drop it.
	#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-1_and_A3-7.jpg\|thumb\|332px\|Figure A3.7 - Drop Tester just before making a test drop. Note that the guide tube is centered on the clamped fabric, and the drop probe is being used as a plumb bob to make the guide tube vertical.]]
	#Let go of the probe.		#Let go of the probe.
	#Now examine the fabric.		#Now examine the fabric.

AngeleDeSavigny at 20:01, 25 November 2025

2025-11-25T20:01:20Z

AngeleDeSavigny at 19:56, 25 November 2025

2025-11-25T19:56:00Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:56, 25 November 2025
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	#Drill a hole in the center of the 1-inch plastic cap with the 5/32-inch drill bit.		#Drill a hole in the center of the 1-inch plastic cap with the 5/32-inch drill bit.
	#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.		#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.
	#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure A3.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly. [[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together]]		#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure A3.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly. [[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together]]
	#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).		#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).
	#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.		#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:07, 25 November 2025
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	<P>It is important not to deviate from the construction specifications given below without approval, as seemingly minor changes can affect the test results.		<P>It is important not to deviate from the construction specifications given below without approval, as seemingly minor changes can affect the test results.
	<P>There are three major parts to the tester, the drop probe (the weighted piece), the guide tube, and the round frame (3-inch flange, below) over which the fabric to be tested is clamped. The actual test method is detailed below but here is a brief overview:		<P>There are three major parts to the tester, the drop probe (the weighted piece), the guide tube, and the round frame (3-inch flange, below) over which the fabric to be tested is clamped. The actual test method is detailed below but here is a brief overview:
	<P>Clamp the fabric over the 3-inch flange, balance the guide tube over the center of the fabric, and drop the weighted drop probe down the middle of the guide tube, as shown in Figure A3.1, below. If the rod on the end of the falling drop probe punches through, the fabric fails, if it doesn't punch through the fabric passes.		<P>Clamp the fabric over the 3-inch flange, balance the guide tube over the center of the fabric, and drop the weighted drop probe down the middle of the guide tube, as shown in Figure 18.1, below. If the rod on the end of the falling drop probe punches through, the fabric fails, if it doesn't punch through the fabric passes.
	[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-1 and A3-7.jpg\|thumb\|332px\|Figure A3.1 - Drop tester (pipe end sticking out of white guide tube) just before making a drop test. Guide tube is centered on the fabric, which is clamped onto the 3-inch flange.]]		[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-1 and A3-7.jpg\|thumb\|332px\|Figure 18.1 - Drop tester (pipe end sticking out of white guide tube) just before making a drop test. Guide tube is centered on the fabric, which is clamped onto the 3-inch flange.]]
	<P>These instructions describe how to build a drop tester for carrying out these tests. It won't take very long to build, and will not be very expensive, but does need one special part.		<P>These instructions describe how to build a drop tester for carrying out these tests. It won't take very long to build, and will not be very expensive, but does need one special part.
	===Parts list===		===Parts list===
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	*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)		*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)
	*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)		*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)
	3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.2a. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV]]		3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure 18.2a. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV]]
	*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2b.jpg\|thumb\|300px\|Figure A3.2b. Hose clamps.]]		*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2b.jpg\|thumb\|300px\|Figure 18.2b. Hose clamps.]]
	*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)		*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)

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	#Drill a hole in the center of the 1-inch plastic cap with the 5/32-inch drill bit.		#Drill a hole in the center of the 1-inch plastic cap with the 5/32-inch drill bit.
	#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.		#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.
	#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure A3.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.		#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure 18.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.
	#:#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.~~3a. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]][[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3b.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.3b~~. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]		#:#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure 18.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]
	#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).		#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).
	#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.		#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.
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	#:or, in American units: 212.6 / (the probe weight in ounces) = drop distance (in inches)		#:or, in American units: 212.6 / (the probe weight in ounces) = drop distance (in inches)
	#:Plug the measured drop probe weight into one of the formulas and calculate the drop distance. It should be between 10 and 20 cm (4 and 8 inches), if not, you found a really unusual pipe stub and should not proceed further.		#:Plug the measured drop probe weight into one of the formulas and calculate the drop distance. It should be between 10 and 20 cm (4 and 8 inches), if not, you found a really unusual pipe stub and should not proceed further.
	#Lay the probe next to the PVC tube from the first step, slide it "up" next to the PVC guide tube until you have that calculated drop distance from the bottom of the PVC tube to the gage pin sticking out of the drop probe, and mark the top end of the drop probe where it lies next to the top of the PVC guide tube (tape, etc.), as shown in Figure A3.4 ~~(below)~~. That is the mark you will want to line up with the top of the PVC tube when you drop the probe. Some of the probe will stick out of the top end of the tube when you have it all together vertically and give you a place to grab it. (The reason metric units are easier is that it's easier to measure fractions of a centimeter than it is fractions of an inch.)		#Lay the probe next to the PVC tube from the first step, slide it "up" next to the PVC guide tube until you have that calculated drop distance from the bottom of the PVC tube to the gage pin sticking out of the drop probe, and mark the top end of the drop probe where it lies next to the top of the PVC guide tube (tape, etc.), as shown in Figure 18.4 . That is the mark you will want to line up with the top of the PVC tube when you drop the probe. Some of the probe will stick out of the top end of the tube when you have it all together vertically and give you a place to grab it. (The reason metric units are easier is that it's easier to measure fractions of a centimeter than it is fractions of an inch.)
	[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-4.jpg\|thumb\|760px\|Figure A3.4 - Lay drop probe assembly (pipe and cap) next to PVC guide tube, and measure your calculated distance from the probe tip to the bottom of the PVC guide tube.]]		[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-4.jpg\|thumb\|760px\|Figure 18.4 - Lay drop probe assembly (pipe and cap) next to PVC guide tube, and measure your calculated distance from the probe tip to the bottom of the PVC guide tube.]]

	====Step 3: The clamps and frame====		====Step 3: The clamps and frame====
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	==Procedures for using the drop tester==		==Procedures for using the drop tester==
	<P>The basic idea behind this test is to drop a known weight a known distance to give a known impact, giving a pass/fail verdict to "unknown" fencing armor. This document will tell you how to use the tester to test armor. See [[Rapier:Testing_Methods_For_Penetration_Resistant_Armor#Procedures_for_creating_a_drop_tester\|above]] for how to choose and build these items. You should have all six pieces shown in Figure A3.5, below, including a guide tube, drop probe (unique to your tester), 3-inch threaded PVC flange, two hose clamps and a screw driver or nut clamp to tighten the hose clamps.		<P>The basic idea behind this test is to drop a known weight a known distance to give a known impact, giving a pass/fail verdict to "unknown" fencing armor. This document will tell you how to use the tester to test armor. See [[Rapier:Testing_Methods_For_Penetration_Resistant_Armor#Procedures_for_creating_a_drop_tester\|above]] for how to choose and build these items. You should have all six pieces shown in Figure 18.5, below, including a guide tube, drop probe (unique to your tester), 3-inch threaded PVC flange, two hose clamps and a screw driver or nut clamp to tighten the hose clamps.
	<P>You should only use your probe with the guide tube it was designed for. Interchanging these items between testers may produce inaccurate results.		<P>You should only use your probe with the guide tube it was designed for. Interchanging these items between testers may produce inaccurate results.
	[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-5.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.5 - Parts needed for Drop Tester for rapier and cut and thrust armor.]]		[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-5.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure 18.5 - Parts needed for Drop Tester for rapier and cut and thrust armor.]]
	#You need a hard surface to work on. Surfaces such as pavement, an extremely sturdy table, concrete, etc are good choices. Carpet or grass are bad choices; they absorb impact and make the test too easy for armor to pass.		#You need a hard surface to work on. Surfaces such as pavement, an extremely sturdy table, concrete, etc are good choices. Carpet or grass are bad choices; they absorb impact and make the test too easy for armor to pass.
	#Start by setting the threaded PVC flange thread side up and laying the test fabric over it, and loosen the first hose clamp so that it will fit easily over the fabric and flange but pull the fabric somewhat taut as it is pushed down. Tighten that hose clamp, put a second one on and slide it down to touch the first then tighten the second one. It should look something like Figure A3.6. You may want to invest in a 5/16-inch nut driver (like a screwdriver with a socket head). It will prevent gashes on your hand from slipped screwdrivers. Note that if you didn't push the first hose clamp far enough down (you may want to lean on it a bit with the screwdriver or nut driver), the second hose clamp won't stay on when you tighten it; it will just barely fit if you do everything right.		#Start by setting the threaded PVC flange thread side up and laying the test fabric over it, and loosen the first hose clamp so that it will fit easily over the fabric and flange but pull the fabric somewhat taut as it is pushed down. Tighten that hose clamp, put a second one on and slide it down to touch the first then tighten the second one. It should look something like Figure 18.6. You may want to invest in a 5/16-inch nut driver (like a screwdriver with a socket head). It will prevent gashes on your hand from slipped screwdrivers. Note that if you didn't push the first hose clamp far enough down (you may want to lean on it a bit with the screwdriver or nut driver), the second hose clamp won't stay on when you tighten it; it will just barely fit if you do everything right.
	#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-6.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.6 - Fabric clamped onto flange with two hose clamps. Notice that the second one will protrude a bit above the level of the fabric with thicker fabrics, but it should still be tight if you push everything down enough.]]		#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-6.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure 18.6 - Fabric clamped onto flange with two hose clamps. Notice that the second one will protrude a bit above the level of the fabric with thicker fabrics, but it should still be tight if you push everything down enough.]]
	#Then, place the guide tube on the center of the clamped fabric. Steady it with one hand, trying not to push downward on the fabric.		#Then, place the guide tube on the center of the clamped fabric. Steady it with one hand, trying not to push downward on the fabric.
	# Put the drop probe into the guide tube, lowering it to roughly the mark that shows where to drop it from, and slowly tilt the guide tube back and forth until the drop probe seems to hang freely, not lying against a side. (You are using the drop probe like a plumb bob to get everything vertical.) Line up the mark exactly with the top of the guide tube, and drop the probe. It should look like Figure 1. just before you drop it.		# Put the drop probe into the guide tube, lowering it to roughly the mark that shows where to drop it from, and slowly tilt the guide tube back and forth until the drop probe seems to hang freely, not lying against a side. (You are using the drop probe like a plumb bob to get everything vertical.) Line up the mark exactly with the top of the guide tube, and drop the probe. It should look like Figure 18.1. just before you drop it.
	#Let go of the probe.		#Let go of the probe.
	#Now examine the fabric.		#Now examine the fabric.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:01, 25 November 2025
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	*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)		*epoxy (the solid grey type such as JB Weld works well, clear epoxies do not hold up as well)
	*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)		*2-inch (50 mm) nominal diameter PVC or equivalent (material doesn't matter for this), at least 30 inches (760 mm)
	3-inch ~~(76 mm)~~ PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end) [[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.2. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV(~~left~~); Hose clamps ~~and nut driver (right)~~]]		3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV (short section of PVC, has external* threads on one end)[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.2a. 3-inch PVC 3-inch Male Adp. DWV]]
			*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-2b.jpg\|thumb\|300px\|Figure A3.2b. Hose clamps.]]
	*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)		*2 hose clamps, 2.5-inch to 4-inch range (large enough to fit over 3-inch adapter above)

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	#Drill a hole in the center of the 1-inch plastic cap with the 5/32-inch drill bit.		#Drill a hole in the center of the 1-inch plastic cap with the 5/32-inch drill bit.
	#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.		#Now put the drill collar on the gage pin with about half of the gage pin sticking out of one side, and apply epoxy. Before it dries, put more epoxy on the gage pin, and shove it into the hole in the cap, with the drill collar on the outside, curved side of the cap. The exact type of drill collar isn't important, it is just to provide some extra grip to keep the gage pin from breaking loose and sliding up into the drop probe with repeated impacts, since the PVC hole alone isn't a great glue surface.
	#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure A3.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly. [[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.3. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together]]		#When you have it put together and the epoxy is still wet, put it on a flat surface and slide the gage pin down until it bottoms out where the plastic cap sits on the flat surface. It will look something like Figure A3.3 (below), when done. Make sure the gage pin doesn't dry at an angle (it should be parallel to the iron pipe, keep checking visually as it dries). If the pin isn't sticking straight out of the cap, your drop tester will not work properly.
			#:#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3a.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.3a. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]][[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-3b.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.3b. Plastic cap with gage pin and drill collar sticking out, all epoxied together (gray)]]
	#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).		#After the epoxy dries, screw the cap on to one end of the pipe (make sure not to get epoxy on the threads, you may want to remove it later!).
	#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.		#Weigh the drop probe assembly, using a good scale. It should be able to measure to half an ounce or 10 grams, a postal scale at the post office could work for example. If possible, try to use metric units - it will make calculations easier later on.
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	#:Plug the measured drop probe weight into one of the formulas and calculate the drop distance. It should be between 10 and 20 cm (4 and 8 inches), if not, you found a really unusual pipe stub and should not proceed further.		#:Plug the measured drop probe weight into one of the formulas and calculate the drop distance. It should be between 10 and 20 cm (4 and 8 inches), if not, you found a really unusual pipe stub and should not proceed further.
	#Lay the probe next to the PVC tube from the first step, slide it "up" next to the PVC guide tube until you have that calculated drop distance from the bottom of the PVC tube to the gage pin sticking out of the drop probe, and mark the top end of the drop probe where it lies next to the top of the PVC guide tube (tape, etc.), as shown in Figure A3.4 (below). That is the mark you will want to line up with the top of the PVC tube when you drop the probe. Some of the probe will stick out of the top end of the tube when you have it all together vertically and give you a place to grab it. (The reason metric units are easier is that it's easier to measure fractions of a centimeter than it is fractions of an inch.)		#Lay the probe next to the PVC tube from the first step, slide it "up" next to the PVC guide tube until you have that calculated drop distance from the bottom of the PVC tube to the gage pin sticking out of the drop probe, and mark the top end of the drop probe where it lies next to the top of the PVC guide tube (tape, etc.), as shown in Figure A3.4 (below). That is the mark you will want to line up with the top of the PVC tube when you drop the probe. Some of the probe will stick out of the top end of the tube when you have it all together vertically and give you a place to grab it. (The reason metric units are easier is that it's easier to measure fractions of a centimeter than it is fractions of an inch.)
	[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-4.jpg\|thumb\|~~240px~~\|Figure A3.4 - Lay drop probe assembly (pipe and cap) next to PVC guide tube, and		[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-4.jpg\|thumb\|760px\|Figure A3.4 - Lay drop probe assembly (pipe and cap) next to PVC guide tube, and measure your calculated distance from the probe tip to the bottom of the PVC guide tube.]]
	measure your calculated distance from the probe tip to the bottom of the PVC guide tube.]]

	====Step 3: The clamps and frame====		====Step 3: The clamps and frame====
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	<P>The basic idea behind this test is to drop a known weight a known distance to give a known impact, giving a pass/fail verdict to "unknown" fencing armor. This document will tell you how to use the tester to test armor. See [[Rapier:Testing_Methods_For_Penetration_Resistant_Armor#Procedures_for_creating_a_drop_tester\|above]] for how to choose and build these items. You should have all six pieces shown in Figure A3.5, below, including a guide tube, drop probe (unique to your tester), 3-inch threaded PVC flange, two hose clamps and a screw driver or nut clamp to tighten the hose clamps.		<P>The basic idea behind this test is to drop a known weight a known distance to give a known impact, giving a pass/fail verdict to "unknown" fencing armor. This document will tell you how to use the tester to test armor. See [[Rapier:Testing_Methods_For_Penetration_Resistant_Armor#Procedures_for_creating_a_drop_tester\|above]] for how to choose and build these items. You should have all six pieces shown in Figure A3.5, below, including a guide tube, drop probe (unique to your tester), 3-inch threaded PVC flange, two hose clamps and a screw driver or nut clamp to tighten the hose clamps.
	<P>You should only use your probe with the guide tube it was designed for. Interchanging these items between testers may produce inaccurate results.		<P>You should only use your probe with the guide tube it was designed for. Interchanging these items between testers may produce inaccurate results.
	[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-5.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.5 - Parts needed for ~~SCA Standard~~ Drop Tester for ~~fencing~~ armor.]]		[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-5.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.5 - Parts needed for Drop Tester for rapier and cut and thrust armor.]]
	#You need a hard surface to work on. Surfaces such as pavement, an extremely sturdy table, concrete, etc are good choices. Carpet or grass are bad choices; they absorb impact and make the test too easy for armor to pass.		#You need a hard surface to work on. Surfaces such as pavement, an extremely sturdy table, concrete, etc are good choices. Carpet or grass are bad choices; they absorb impact and make the test too easy for armor to pass.
	#Start by setting the threaded PVC flange thread side up and laying the test fabric over it, and loosen the first hose clamp so that it will fit easily over the fabric and flange but pull the fabric somewhat taut as it is pushed down. Tighten that hose clamp, put a second one on and slide it down to touch the first then tighten the second one. It should look something like Figure A3.6. You may want to invest in a 5/16-inch nut driver (like a screwdriver with a socket head). It will prevent gashes on your hand from slipped screwdrivers. Note that if you didn't push the first hose clamp far enough down (you may want to lean on it a bit with the screwdriver or nut driver), the second hose clamp won't stay on when you tighten it; it will just barely fit if you do everything right.		#Start by setting the threaded PVC flange thread side up and laying the test fabric over it, and loosen the first hose clamp so that it will fit easily over the fabric and flange but pull the fabric somewhat taut as it is pushed down. Tighten that hose clamp, put a second one on and slide it down to touch the first then tighten the second one. It should look something like Figure A3.6. You may want to invest in a 5/16-inch nut driver (like a screwdriver with a socket head). It will prevent gashes on your hand from slipped screwdrivers. Note that if you didn't push the first hose clamp far enough down (you may want to lean on it a bit with the screwdriver or nut driver), the second hose clamp won't stay on when you tighten it; it will just barely fit if you do everything right.
	#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-6.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.6 - Fabric clamped onto flange with two hose clamps. Notice that the second one will protrude a bit above the level of the fabric with thicker fabrics, but it should still be tight if you push everything down enough.]]		#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-6.jpg\|thumb\|240px\|Figure A3.6 - Fabric clamped onto flange with two hose clamps. Notice that the second one will protrude a bit above the level of the fabric with thicker fabrics, but it should still be tight if you push everything down enough.]]
	#Then, place the guide tube on the center of the clamped fabric. Steady it with one hand, trying not to push downward on the fabric.		#Then, place the guide tube on the center of the clamped fabric. Steady it with one hand, trying not to push downward on the fabric.
	# Put the drop probe into the guide tube, lowering it to roughly the mark that shows where to drop it from, and slowly tilt the guide tube back and forth until the drop probe seems to hang freely, not lying against a side. (You are using the drop probe like a plumb bob to get everything vertical.) Line up the mark exactly with the top of the guide tube, and drop the probe. It should look like Figure 7 below just before you drop it.[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-~~1 and A3~~-7.jpg\|thumb\|~~240px~~\|Figure A3.7 - Drop Tester just before making a test drop. Note that the guide tube is centered on the clamped fabric, and the drop probe is being used as a plumb bob to make the guide tube vertical.]]		# Put the drop probe into the guide tube, lowering it to roughly the mark that shows where to drop it from, and slowly tilt the guide tube back and forth until the drop probe seems to hang freely, not lying against a side. (You are using the drop probe like a plumb bob to get everything vertical.) Line up the mark exactly with the top of the guide tube, and drop the probe. It should look like Figure 7 below just before you drop it.
			#:[[File:Fencing_Handbook_2020_Figure_A3-1_and_A3-7.jpg\|thumb\|332px\|Figure A3.7 - Drop Tester just before making a test drop. Note that the guide tube is centered on the clamped fabric, and the drop probe is being used as a plumb bob to make the guide tube vertical.]]
	#Let go of the probe.		#Let go of the probe.
	#Now examine the fabric.		#Now examine the fabric.