Find HS Code and trade information for powder hand guard gutta percha bracelet

Powder Hand Guard Gutta Percha Bracelet

A powder hand guard gutta percha bracelet refers to a type of historical or specialized protective equipment, typically associated with fencing or dueling, utilizing gutta percha as a key component.

Material:

• Gutta Percha: A natural latex derived from trees native to Southeast Asia. In the 19th century, gutta percha was highly valued for its rubber-like properties – it's waterproof, durable, and moldable when heated. It was often used as an early form of plastic.
• Powder: Refers to a fine material, often lycopodium powder (spores from club mosses) or similar substances. This powder was not in the bracelet itself, but used with it (see Function).
• Other Materials: Typically, a supporting structure of leather, metal (wire or small plates), or fabric would be used alongside the gutta percha to provide shape and strength.

Purpose:

The primary purpose of these bracelets was to protect the hand and wrist during fencing or dueling from cuts and bruises caused by the opponent's weapon. They were designed as a form of early impact absorption and defense.

Function:

These bracelets did not function as a solid shield. Instead, they were used in conjunction with a puff of powder. Before a fencing engagement, a fencer would puff lycopodium powder into the air between the guard and their opponent’s blade. The powder would create a visible cloud, allowing the fencer to see where their opponent’s blade was making contact with the guard. The gutta percha provided a surface for the powder to adhere to and a degree of cushioning. The visible cloud allowed the fencer to judge the line of attack and react accordingly. Without the powder, the bracelet offered limited protection.

Usage Scenarios:

• 19th Century Fencing: Predominantly used during the early days of modern fencing, before the widespread adoption of electric scoring systems and more robust protective gear.
• Historical Re-enactment: Currently used by historical fencing enthusiasts recreating 19th-century dueling techniques.
• Dueling: Historically used in formal duels, though less common as dueling practices declined.

Common Types/Variations:

• Simple Gutta Percha Bands: Basic designs consisting of a strip of gutta percha wrapped around the wrist, often reinforced with leather.
• Wire-Reinforced Guards: More elaborate designs incorporating a wire mesh or frame within the gutta percha for increased strength and shape retention.
• Leather-Backed Guards: Guards with a leather backing for comfort and secure attachment.
• Full Hand Guards: Less common, these designs extended further up the forearm for more comprehensive protection.

Based on the provided information, the declared goods "powder hand guard gutta percha bracelet" can be analyzed as follows:

The item appears to be a bracelet made of gutta percha, potentially used as a protective hand guard and containing powder. Gutta percha is a natural latex material. Considering these characteristics, the following HS codes are relevant:

• 9601908000: Worked ivory, bone, tortoise-shell, horn, antlers, coral, mother-of-pearl and other animal carving material, and articles of these materials (including articles obtained by molding): Other: Other. This code covers articles made from animal carving materials, and gutta percha, being a natural latex derived from trees, could fall under this category if it's considered a carving material. The tax rate is 3.7% basic duty, 7.5% additional duty, totaling 41.2%.
• 9616200000: Scent sprayers and similar toilet sprayers, and mounts and heads therefor; powder puffs and pads for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations: Powder puffs and pads for the application of cosmetics or toilet preparations. If the "powder" component is for cosmetic application, this code may be applicable. The tax rate is 4.3% basic duty, 0.0% additional duty, totaling 34.3%.
• 3926909905: Other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 3901 to 3914: Other: Other Elastic bands made wholly of plastics. If the bracelet is made of plastic, this code may be applicable. The tax rate is 5.3% basic duty, 7.5% additional duty, totaling 42.8%.

Regarding HS code 9601908000, please note that the classification depends on whether gutta percha is considered an "animal carving material" in this context. It is recommended to verify the material composition and intended use with customs authorities.