Equipment reviews for Ancient Warfare

[Praefectusclassis]

Hi all,
I'd like to include reviews of reenactment equipment in Ancient Warfare magazine. Understanding that the price of individual items and shipping costs makes sending of review samples difficult, I'd like to find a solution to get that done anyway. I'd like to hear from any manufacturers or retailers interested in working something out.

[Magnus]

Jasper, how far back would you be interested in publishing reviews of items? What I mean is, items made 1-2 years ago, but still being sold today...?

[Praefectusclassis]

I usually use a limit of about 18 months.

[Gaius_Calvus]

This is a great idea.

[jkaler48]

Are these reviews limited to items made or sold by companies who are RAT marketplace vendors? Should the reviewer have an actual item in their possession and be an active reenactor, published author or magazine staff member?

[Praefectusclassis]

No, of course they shouldn't be limited to RAT marketplace vendors, just commercially available. Reviewers don't necessarily have to own the item, but should have it on hand while writing and need to have a good understanding of the original that is being reproduced. Of course, the reviewer should not have an interest in praising the item.

[Gaius_Calvus]

Or, I would think, a financial stake in the company that makes it or who might receive any remuneration from the manufacturer of any kind, either in cash, kind, or discounts.

[Praefectusclassis]

Exactly. I meant interest in widest sense. This combo of demands may make it difficult to find reviewers, I know.

[Peroni]

There's a reviewers section on my website. Perhaps some of my customers would be willing to write a few words?

[Gaius_Calvus]

I think that would be great, Peronis.

Edge

[Virilis]

A reviewers section is a good idea in my opinion 8) ! Perhaps as a part of a more general "re-enactment" section?

[jvrjenivs]

Yeah, very good! Hope it works out!

[jkaler48]

Exactly. I meant interest in widest sense. This combo of demands may make it difficult to find reviewers, I know.

And then there is the possibility of bad reviews of products by those who
have friends who also make the item. This could make it even more difficult
to find reviewers. It may be impossible to find many completely unbiased
reviewers and the best that can be hoped for is a few honest ones who do reviews while admitting any connections they have with the company, product development, or if they got a free or reduced price item.
Publishing writing guidelines for reviewers and some sample reviews would be helpful.

[Magnus]

That's why it's the editor's job and staff members to ensure an unbiased and justified review before it gets published.

[M. CVRIVS ALEXANDER]

There's a reviewers section on my website. Perhaps some of my customers would be willing to write a few words?

My pleasure!