Like all structures and costume pieces used in LARP (live action role playing), LARP weapons of all types require proper maintenance and care. This ensures a safe LARP environment. Aside from safety and liability issues, weapons maintenance is important to:

• Save you money--a well-maintained weapon will last longer.
• Save the environment--don't let scattered pieces of foam and duct tape from your weapon destroy the environment. You can also combine and re-use boffer materials and pieces.
• Maintain your character's appearance. The weapon is part of your costume--a very important accessory in many cases.

Boffer, foam and latex weapons each require small variations in care. Here are important maintenance checks important for all types of weapons:

Check the seams. Each type of weapon has a seam, no matter how small. Whether it's made with duct tape or factory-sealed, weapons have seams--and these are often the most vulnerable part of a weapon.

More padding, more vulnerability. Adequate padding is integral to a weapon's safety, but open cell phone on the tips of boffer weapons or padded handles on latex and foam weapons are also vulnerable to damage. Sometimes they seem okay; the next minute they'll fall right off. Keep an eye on them to monitor wear and tear.

Storage. Weapons are made for outdoor use, but they're vulnerable to the outdoor elements (just like live steel weapons). Store them in a cool, dry place free of moisture and mold. Too much sun exposure and change in moisture level will fade the weapon and cause dry rot. An ideal storage environment would be within a bin in a dry basement.

Replacement. As time goes on, you'll have to replace faulty parts of your weapon. This could be as simple as adding more duct tape in the case of a boffer weapon. Another replacement item is the sword grip on all sword types--sometimes the leather rots or becomes unwound. You can replace it with a similar material from a local craft or fabric store.

Lastly, if you need help, ask! Experienced LARPers are great resources. They have tips and tricks that have served them well over the years.