Maximilian Plate Mitten Gauntlets for Re-enactment

Maximilian Plate Mitten Gauntlets for Re-enactment

Plate Gauntlets Between the Middle Ages and Renaissance

The construction is inspired by late 15th- and early 16th-century plate mitten gauntlets. The term Maximilian armour is commonly associated with German and Austrian harnesses developed during and shortly after the reign of Emperor Maximilian I. Their most recognisable features included numerous raised flutes and ridges, which gave the armour an elegant appearance while helping to stiffen the plate.

Historical mitten gauntlets protected the fingers, knuckles, back of the hand, wrist and lower forearm. Unlike individually plated finger gauntlets, the mitten design placed the four fingers beneath a shared group of articulated plates. This robust arrangement was particularly suitable for maintaining a firm grip on a sword, mace, axe or mounted weapon.

Articulated Plate Construction

The back of each hand is protected by nine overlapping steel lames. These plates are loosely riveted through elongated holes, allowing them to slide over one another as the wearer closes the hand. Longitudinal ridges reinforce the rounded knuckle section, while a separate articulated element protects the thumb.

The tall cuff widens towards the forearm and can overlap the end of a mail sleeve or a separate forearm defence. Its rolled edge improves rigidity and reduces the risk of leaving an exposed sharp rim. Visible rivets enhance the functional appearance associated with late medieval and early Renaissance armour.

How to Wear the Gauntlets

Insert your hands fully into the integrated suede gloves and make sure that the fingers and thumbs are correctly seated. Open and close each hand several times so that the articulated plates settle into their natural working positions. When holding a weapon, maintain a secure but relaxed grip rather than squeezing the hilt unnecessarily hard.

Before every use, check that no rivets are missing, all plates move freely and the inner gloves are free from tears. With an overall length of approximately 34 cm when laid flat, the universal design fits most adult male hands. The actual fit will nevertheless depend on palm width, finger length and forearm circumference.

Technical Specifications

Care of the Steel and Suede

• After use, wipe all steel parts with a dry, soft cloth to remove perspiration, moisture and dirt.
• Apply a thin layer of armour oil, gun oil or acid-free protective wax to the clean metal surface.
• Store the gauntlets in a dry, ventilated place rather than leaving them inside a closed, damp bag.
• Allow damp suede gloves to dry naturally at room temperature. Do not place them on a radiator or near an open flame.
• Do not use aggressive cleaning chemicals, abrasive pads or coarse polishing compounds.
• Inspect the articulated joints regularly. Any loose, damaged or missing rivet should be professionally repaired before further use.

Safety Information

These gauntlets are suitable for LARP, re-enactment, costume use, historical presentation and controlled stage combat. They are not certified protective armour for buhurt, HMB, Battle of the Nations or similar full-contact disciplines involving unrestricted blows. Always follow the equipment and safety requirements of the event organiser.

Steel gauntlets cannot eliminate the risk of bruising, crushing injuries, fractures or damage to the joints. Use them together with suitable full-body protection, properly prepared weapons and controlled technique. Do not continue using the gauntlets if any plate is cracked or severely deformed, if sharp edges have developed or if rivets are missing.

Recommended Accessories

• Mail shirt or hauberk in a 14th- to 15th-century style, with sleeves that can be overlapped by the tall cuffs.
• 15th-century gambeson as a comfortable padded foundation beneath mail and plate armour.
• Late 15th- or early 16th-century vambraces and couters to create continuous protection along the arms.
• 15th- to 16th-century longsword or hand-and-a-half sword for controlled stage combat and historical presentation.
• Protective oil, armour wax and a soft cloth for regular maintenance of the steel surfaces.