I’m John, an Assassin’s Creed fan and regular convention attendee.

Over the years, I’ve worn everything from plastic props to full-metal blades, ranging from classic string-pull designs to the latest dual-action tech. Through this journey, I’ve accumulated a wealth of experience regarding both wearability and safety.

While many people only see the "cool factor" of the blade deploying, few realize the hidden risks and discomforts involved. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-tested wearing tips and safety essentials to help new Assassins avoid the mistakes I made.

I. Wearing Tips: How to Maximize Comfort?

Many beginners find that after just 30 minutes of wearing a hidden blade, their arms are covered in red pressure marks. Here is how to make the experience much more comfortable:

• 1. The Vambrace (Gauntlet) is Everything

  Don't just focus on the blade! The stability of your setup depends entirely on the vambrace. If you bought a version with paper-thin synthetic leather, I highly recommend adding a 3–5mm lining of neoprene or wool felt. This padding protects your arm from the hard baseplate.

• 2. Finding the "Golden Position"

  The hidden blade shouldn't sit directly on your wrist; it belongs on your forearm. When the blade is retracted, the edge of the device should sit approximately 2 cm away from the base of your palm.

• 3. The Secret to Fixing "Wobble"

  If you have thinner arms and the Velcro straps aren't secure enough, try wrapping a layer of athletic grip tape around your arm first. This self-adhesive wrap ensures the hidden blade remains rock-solid, even when you’re waving to people at a con.

II. Safety First: Faith is Precious, but Safety is Paramount

This is perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned in five years.

• 1. Build a "Locking" Habit

  Whether you have a high-end OTF (Out-The-Front) blade or a simple string-pull, always lock it when not performing. I’ve seen players accidentally trigger their blades while standing in line for water, scaring bystanders and tearing their own expensive cosplay costumes.

• 2. Perform an "Obstacle" Test

  Before every event, I do a "resistance test." Place a cardboard box in front of the blade to see how it reacts if it hits an obstacle during deployment. High-quality blades (especially plastic ones) usually have safety mechanisms, but with metal versions, you must respect the spring's power.

• 3. The "Hidden" Rule in Public Spaces

  We may be "Assassins," but we must follow real-world laws. In subways, malls, or any non-convention area, take the blade off and put it in your bag. Even if your blade is unsharpened plastic, the visual impact of a metal prop can cause unnecessary panic or legal trouble.

III. John’s Personal Recommendations

If I were to recommend a setup for a beginner:

• The Social Con-Goer: Go for the officially licensed ABS plastic version. It’s lightweight, clears security quickly, and won’t tire your arm out after a hundred triggers.

• The Hardcore Collector: Choose the full-metal dual-action version. The tactile vibration of the metal impact makes the five-year wait worth every penny.