Larp weapons
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 6 - 7 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 6 - 7 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 6 - 7 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 6 - 7 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 2 - 3 working days* (US - int. shipments may differ)
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LARP weapons – also known in the scene as padded weapons or foam weapons – are at the heart of every live-action role-playing game: they enable safe combat, bring characters to life and make immersion in fantasy or historical settings truly complete. In this category, you’ll find swords, daggers, axes, katanas and more from Battle Merchant – all made from sturdy polyurethane foam with a robust fibreglass core, ranging in price from around €21 to €84.
What are foam weapons? Construction and how they work
A padded weapon is a replica of a cutting, stabbing or striking weapon made from soft foam – encasing a sturdy core, usually made of fibreglass. The soft foam cushions impacts, so that hits are felt but do not cause injury. This is precisely the key difference from decorative swords (purely for decoration, not suitable for combat) and from steel display weapons (for demonstrations with protective gear).
The terms ‘padded weapon’, ‘LARP weapon’ and ‘foam weapon’ all refer to the same product – in German-speaking countries, ‘padded weapon’ is frequently used in historically oriented LARP, whilst ‘LARP weapon’ is more commonly used as a generic term. Safety is the top priority in both cases: a well-made LARP sword allows for active combat scenes without players being seriously injured. This makes padded weapons the first choice for live-action role-playing, conventions and team-building events.
Choose padded weapons by setting: Vikings, Medieval, Fantasy and Far East
Viking LARP swords are characterised by a wide crossguard, a slightly rounded blade shape and Nordic ornamentation. The range includes, amongst others, the Sigurn (87 cm), Haraldur (85 cm), Eirwyn (105 cm) and Njorn (105 cm) – all with an authentically designed look that fits the Nordic warrior aesthetic. If you want to fully equip your character, you’ll find further additions in the Viking weapons range. The Viking models are particularly suitable for early medieval events and Nordic-inspired game worlds.
For classic knight settings, longer one-handed and long sword models are available. The Lothair (103 cm) is a striking knight’s sword with typical High Medieval blade geometry, whilst the Caelric (109 cm, approx. 510 g) offers excellent handling even in fast-paced combat scenes thanks to its well-balanced design. As a complement, it is worth taking a look at medieval metal swords for stage combat or decoration.
Fantasy LARP thrives on characters beyond historical models. The Tharion and the Aelinor – both available in sizes S, M and L – captivate with intricate design elements such as curved blade details and imaginative crossguards that are not bound by any historical model. Both models are ideal for elves, mages or other non-historical character classes. Matching clothing is available in the LARP clothing section.
The Takeshi series covers East Asian-inspired characters: available as a katana (L), wakizashi (M) or tanto (S). The characteristic curved blade and classic tsuba design make these models the first choice for samurai characters or Far Eastern settings. The compact Golden Melon Hammer Huoyan (45 cm) rounds off the Far Eastern range with an unusual melee weapon.
For ancient settings – whether Roman legionary or gladiator – the Tiberius Gladius (also in S, M, L) offers the perfect short blade. The short, broad blade of the gladius is typical of Roman infantry and can be combined with a shield. Those wishing to complete their armour will find further options in the Ancient Armour and Roman Swords ranges.
Choosing the right size: lengths, weight and target audience
- Short variants (S / Tanto): 40–60 cm, lightweight and easy to control
- Lightweight – ideal for younger players and first-time purchases
- Models such as Tharion S, Aelinor S or Takeshi Tanto from approx. €29–38
- Short handle, compact blade – easy to handle even without combat experience
- Long variants (L / Katana / Longsword): 100–110 cm, for duelling
- Greater reach and weight – requires some practice to handle
- Caelric (109 cm, 510 g), Njorn (105 cm), Takeshi Katana L from approx. €38–46
- Longer handle allows for two-handed use – for intense combat scenes
Many models are available in several lengths (S, M, L), so you can choose a blade and handle to suit your height and playing style. The ratio of blade length to handle length significantly affects handling: a longer handle allows for two-handed use, whilst a shorter handle favours speed when holding the shield in the opposite hand. Entry-level models start at around €21, whilst higher-quality or larger variants range from €37 to €84.
Material and construction: polyurethane foam and fibreglass core
| Component | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Core | Fibreglass | Bending stiffness, prevents flexing on impact – important for control and safety |
| Foam | Polyurethane foam (PU) | Open-cell structure, absorbs impact, more durable and weather-resistant than older EVA foams |
| Surface | PU coating | Robust, low-maintenance surface; requires less maintenance than a latex coating |
| Surface (alternative) | Latex coating | Pleasant feel, looks more natural – requires occasional latex care |
The polyurethane foam used in the Battle Merchant models has an open-cell structure: it absorbs impacts softly and is significantly more resistant to weathering than older EVA foams, which become brittle more quickly when exposed to UV light. The fibreglass core ensures that the blade does not bend uncontrollably even under heavy blows – a crucial safety factor during active play. Weight also plays a role: at 109 cm in total length, the Caelric weighs around 510 g, offering a good balance between reach and manoeuvrability.
An overview of the main types of weapons
Swords & Gladius
The strongest segment in the range: Viking swords (Sigurn, Haraldur, Njorn, Eirwyn), fantasy swords (Tharion, Aelinor), the knight’s swords Lothair and Caelric, and the Gladius Tiberius for Roman settings. Lengths from approx. 60 to 110 cm – many models available in S, M and L.
Katana, Wakizashi & Tanto
The Takeshi series offers the classic Japanese trio: katana (long), wakizashi (medium) and tanto (short). Suitable for East Asian-inspired characters as well as for mixed fantasy settings that incorporate Far Eastern elements.
Axes, Hammers & Shields
In addition to bladed weapons, the range includes compact axes and hammers – including the Far Eastern-style Huoyan hammer (45 cm). Shields round off the range and enable complete fighter outfits. Matching medieval and Viking shields made of wood or metal are available as accessories.
Care and storage of your LARP weapon
Polyurethane foam is more robust than many other foam materials – nevertheless, a little care is worth it to extend the lifespan of your foam weapon. The main enemy is direct sunlight: UV radiation causes foam to become brittle over time and can roughen the coating. You should therefore store your LARP weapon in a dry, dark place and as straight as possible – so not bent under a pile of other equipment. Storing it hanging (e.g. on a wall hook) or in a suitable sword sheath is ideal.
A damp cloth is sufficient for cleaning; aggressive solvents or alcohol attack the coating and should be avoided. Small cracks or chips in the coating can be repaired early on using latex glue (for latex coatings) or PU glue (for PU coatings) – the sooner, the easier. You’ll also find suitable accessories for swords, such as sword sheaths and sword holders, in our range.
Whether you’re heading into battle with a Viking sword like the Njorn, playing a samurai character from the Takeshi series, or kitting out your first LARP character with an affordable beginner’s sword – here you’ll find the right padded weapon for your setting and your budget. Take your time to browse and simply give us a call if you have any questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foam weapons (also known as LARP weapons or foam-core weapons) are replicas of slashing, stabbing and striking weapons made from soft foam with a sturdy core, usually fibreglass. They are used in live-action role-playing (LARP), at conventions, team-building events and medieval festivals. Hits are noticeable but do not cause injury – this makes them the safe standard for active combat scenes.
LARP swords are mock combat weapons made from polyurethane foam, designed to look like real swords. Unlike sharp or blunt metal swords, they can be used in direct physical contact without causing serious injury. A fibreglass core ensures structural stability, whilst the soft foam cushions impacts.
For younger players, we recommend shorter versions (size S) with a compact blade and light weight. Models such as the Tharion S, Aelinor S or the Takeshi Tanto are easy to handle and available from around €29–€38. The shorter length allows for safe control even without combat experience.
Our range includes, amongst others, the Gladius Tiberius – a short sword in the style of the Roman infantry – various daggers, and slender one-handed swords with pointed blades. These models are based on historical weapon types but are designed as padded weapons for safe use in LARP.
Store your foam weapon in a dry place, laid flat and away from light – direct sunlight causes foam to become brittle. A damp cloth is sufficient for cleaning; you should avoid aggressive solvents. Small tears in the coating can be repaired early on with latex or PU glue. A sword scabbard provides additional protection for the weapon during transport and storage.