Nio Dou Gosuko

[niosamurai]

Greetings Tousando members,

I am new to the creation of samurai armor but have been fascinated with it since I began seeing photos in books many years ago. As an adult with the desire to make and fight in Japanese armor, I am in a position to start making a set of armor to do just that. I am very new to both the creation of and the accepted forms of samurai armor for SCA fighting. I am requesting all help and suggestions with this adventure. I am very much intrigued by the Nio Dou Gosuko. I have found a reproduction armor in 18 ga. that I believe I can alter for the creation of the dou. Is this type of armor acceptable for SCA fighting use? If so, I am full steam ahead on my quest to build a full set. I have not found a date on any of the surviving armors in this style so I do not know if this is okay to use. I must say, I hope that I get affirmative answers for using the Nio Dou. I hope the esteemed and knowledgeable members of this board can help. Thanks in advance for all help and assistance. I have a great deal of metal working experience as I have been a certified welder from the age of 18. No boast. I am the first to say there is no way to be an expert at welding. I was told that when I was being taught by a dude that could wire weld a dip can shut. Anyway, Thanks for all this forum provides.

Warmest Regards,

Robert Rodgers

[Saionji Shonagon]

tousando.proboards.com/thread/2629/nio-pictures-sought

I believe that member did actually make one because I recall pictures, but I cannot seem to find them and he's not currently active on this forum.

[niosamurai]

Thanks so much for your information and the link to close-ups of that set of armor. I have seen several photos of that one but never close up close to the lames. If everyone who weighs in on here doesn't seem to have a problem with the Nio Dou being used, I am definitely going in that direction. It is truly my favorite and I think it will work well for SCA fighting. The weight of solid steel shouldn't be too bad. I have been on two combat deployments to Iraq and I wore 35+ lb. body armor on both and had to Duck, Dip Dive, and....Duck numerous times. Once again, thanks a bunch for your imput. It is much appreciated.

Warm Regards,

Robert Rodgers