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Chain mail, often known simply as chain mail armor, has captivated humanity for millennia. Much more than simply historical objects, these complex structures of interlocking metal rings were a flexible and lightweight protection solution that revolutionized medieval warfare. Today, they remain essential pieces for historical reenactment and live role-playing (LARP) enthusiasts. To check the current offer, you can browse the collection of chain mail.
But what exactly is chain mail and how has it stayed relevant over time? In this article, we will explore their fascinating history, the secrets of their construction, the different types that exist, including the vital chain mail cap or or executioner chain mail , and, crucially for their durability, how to properly care for and maintain them. Get ready to enter the world of these metallic masterpieces! To check the current offer, you can explore the collection of executioners.
A Glimpse into the Past: History and Evolution of Chain Mail
The history of mail armor spans thousands of years, with the first finds dating back to the 5th century BC. Its invention is attributed to the Celts, and since then, these armors formed the backbone of defense for warriors of various cultures. You could say that the 2,500-year history of chain mail continues into the 21st century, as it remains in limited use as a component of bulletproof vests and other applications.
Over the centuries, the chain mail spread widely, being adopted by the Roman legions (known as Lorica Hamata) and by knights of the Middle Ages in Europe. The Roman armies introduced the lorica segmentata and it continued in use among auxiliaries and legionaries throughout the imperial period. The basic design of chainmail remains the same, although certain features began to change during their journey east.
The chain mail offered effective protection against cuts and sword strikes, without significantly restricting the wearer's mobility. This was especially valuable in hand-to-hand combat and for horsemen. Its possession was a clear symbol of status and wealth, given how expensive and specialized it was to manufacture. However, with technological advancement, it was gradually replaced by plate armor, which offered better protection against sharp weapons and, later, firearms.
The Magic of Rings: Manufacturing and Features
Making a chain mail was a laborious process that required exceptional craftsmanship. Thousands of individual rings had to be forged and joined together to create the protective fabric. The vast majority of chain mail are built following the “4 in 1” pattern, this means that each ring is related to 4 other rings.
Materials and Finishes: Functional vs. Decorative
chain mail were traditionally made from iron or steel, robust but susceptible to rust materials. Nowadays there are 2 types of chain mail: functional chain mail (made of steel or iron) and decorative chain mail (made of aluminum). The functional dimensions are quite heavy, weighing about 24 kg, while the decorative dimensions are made of aluminum and weigh much less than the functional dimensions, which makes them ideal for LARP.
Finishes may vary: galvanized steel or anodized aluminum (which is shiny) are more resistant to corrosion than the natural finish, which is more prone to rust. The blued steel (black) offers a different and subtle aesthetic.
Union Type is the Key to Resistance
chain mail provides very effective defense against blows. In general, the resistance of chain mail to weapons is determined by four factors: the type of joint (rived, butt, or welded), the material used (iron, bronze, or steel), the density of the weave, and the thickness of the ring. Rings can have two basic shapes: round or flat, the latter being more solid and with a greater visible surface.
As for their union, the rings can be:
- Open ring (butt): The ends only touch, they are less resistant and easier to produce.
- Riveted ring: The ends are flattened, pierced and joined with a small nail or rivet. This makes them much more resistant to punctures and breaks.
- Welded rings: The ends are heated and forged together, offering a very strong bond.
- Die-cut rings: Stamped from a sheet, they are already closed but are less stable.
The Executioner or Mail Cap: Fundamental Protection for the Head
Within the mail armor ensemble, the mail coif, also known as the mail hood or executioner, is an essential historical piece that protects the wearer's head, neck, and nape. Composed of the same metal ring mesh, this hood provided vital protection without the rigidity of a full helmet, allowing for greater mobility. It could be easily worn under other helmets, closing the gaps between the helmet and the breastplate, and proved to be a versatile element of armor.
It was used as a complement to chain mail to cover and protect the head. Its importance was such that it became a symbol of chivalry and the advanced metallurgy techniques of the Middle Ages. The caps also had regional differences, adapting to climates, combat styles, and local blacksmithing traditions.
Care and Maintenance: The Secret to its Durability
Proper care of a mesh armor is crucial to its longevity and functionality. Without proper maintenance, the risk of rust, loss of flexibility or even disintegration is high, both in historical pieces and modern replicas.
Cleaning the Mesh Armor
Dry Cleaning: Shake and brush the armor with a soft brush to remove light dirt and loose dust. This can be done after each use for the LARP.
Wet Cleaning: For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap solution. Soak the armor and work carefully with a soft brush, making sure to reach all areas. Then rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Complete drying is essential to prevent rust formation. You can air dry it in a well-ventilated area, use an absorbent cloth, a hair dryer on low for difficult areas, or even the old-fashioned method of placing it in a bag with dried rice to absorb moisture.
Rust Removal and Protection
Inspect your armor regularly for reddish-brown stains or rough areas. For light cases of rust, use a soft wire brush or fine sandpaper. Once you've removed the rust, apply a high-quality anti-rust product to the entire armor. Make sure it is a thin, uniform layer so as not to affect the mobility of the rings, and repeat the treatment regularly, especially before prolonged storage.
Oiled and Greased: Flexibility and Protection
Regular oiling is crucial to prevent rust and maintain fabric flexibility. The choice of lubricant depends on the material:
- Steel: Acid-free oils, such as gun oils.
- Brass: Light mineral oils or specific products for brass.
- Aluminum: Silicone sprays or light non-corrosive oils.
Apply the oil with a soft cloth or brush, carefully working into all the rings. Remove excess to prevent dirt buildup. Excessive oiling can be counterproductive, attracting dust and dirt.
How to Put on and Take Off Chainmail
Putting on and taking off a chain mail shirt can be complicated due to its weight, size, and friction. The tension falls mainly on the shoulders, so the weight can be better distributed with the use of a belt on the chest, which offers another point of support.
To achieve maximum protection and comfort, a padded piece was placed under the chain mail. To put it on, you can put your arms through the sleeves and then put your head through the neckline, using gravity to your advantage. To remove it, lift the bottom so it doesn't catch on your hips and shake your arms and shoulders until the Chainmail slides over your back, shoulders and head.
The chain mail usually had no sleeves or were very short, 12 or 13 cm maximum, and reached mid-thigh. Warriors also put chain mail gloves on their hands to cover them and protect them from cuts with sharp medieval weapons such as swords, sabers, daggers or knives. To check the current offer, you can explore the collection of manoplas.
To avoid rubbing of the rings and increase the effectiveness of the mesh, it is advisable to use a gambeson or padding under the chain mail. This is because the mesh, although it protects very well from cuts, protects quite poorly from bruises, unlike plate armor that distributes the force of the blows over the entire length of the plate.
