Well, just recently returned from the Gatherin' at Wakeeney Kansas (met Ozark Ridge Rider there)...I had the opportunity to cross blades (woods) with Chris Thompson (I believe that was how he introduced himeslf)-one of the authors of Highland Knife Fighting with the Dirk and Sgian, and we both used targes-my tester, his slightly smaller/lighter shield. He's fair handy with a broadsword (I have some knocks to my leg to prove it), and fast on his feet-he didn't escape unscathed, however-we were pretty even on whacks. Oh, and did I mention we were fighting by firelight, after a day of, well, quality refreshment? You think swording by day is fun-you ought to try it by torch/firelight after a few beers. Photos will be forthcoming, if the lighting (or lack there of) worked.

New results:
I am going to reduce things to an even 20" or so. Pad it up, too. Arm straps worked great-didn't catch any real heavy shots, so I am thinking a soft handgrip with some padding behind will work just fine. No rigid grip. If the opposition has an ax, I will just pull pistol and avoid the messyness. I was wearing gauntlets too, which helped keep my knuckles off of the abrasive wood. Took a few of them by suprise when I explained the bullet dents and holes...