Merek Steel Plate Gauntlets - Outlet

Merek Steel Plate Gauntlets: Knightly Protection for Your Hands

These gauntlets are more than just ordinary pieces of armor. They are carefully designed and crafted to meet the demands for protection, mobility, and historical authenticity.

Detailed Design and Construction

The Merek gauntlets are crafted from approximately 1.6mm (16-gauge) mild steel, ensuring their durability. Each gauntlet consists of numerous overlapping steel plates (lames) that provide excellent articulation for individual fingers, the thumb, and the entire wrist. The thumb is protected by a separate, robust plate. Solid rivets join the individual components. The steel surface is polished, giving the gauntlets an authentic knightly appearance. The cuff is slightly flared to protect the wrist and to integrate smoothly with other parts of your armor or costume. Each pair comes attached with black suede leather gloves, featuring contrasting red stitching at the finger edges, enhancing comfort, protecting the hand from abrasions, and improving your weapon grip. A sturdy leather strap with a solid brass buckle on the palm side ensures the gauntlets remain securely fastened.

Practical Applications: From Historical Fencing to Cosplay

How the Merek Gauntlets Will Serve You

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a passionate LARPer, or preparing for a cosplay event, these gauntlets are an excellent choice for you. You can use them for:

• Historical Fencing Practice: They provide essential hand protection during training and light-contact sparring.
• LARP and Battles: Enhance your safety while underscoring the authenticity of your character.
• Cosplay and Theatrical Productions: Add that perfect finishing touch to your knight, warrior, or fantasy hero costume.
• Collectibles and Decoration: They can also be an impressive addition to your collection of historical replicas.

Their short design, ending at the wrist, allows for excellent freedom of movement and can visually connect to the sleeves of your costume.

A Glimpse into History: Plate Gauntlets in Combat

Plate gauntlets were an integral part of a knight's full plate armor, especially from the 14th century onwards. They offered crucial protection for the hands and wrists, which were extremely vulnerable in close combat. They allowed for a firm grip on swords, lances, or other weapons while defending against slashes and blows. The evolution of gauntlets aimed for maximum finger dexterity so that a knight would not lose the agility needed to control their weapon and shield. Various types existed, from simpler mitten-style gauntlets to complex, articulated finger gauntlets like this replica.

An Interesting Historical Fact

Did you know that "throwing down the gauntlet" became a symbol of a challenge to a duel? This custom originated in the Middle Ages when a knight would throw his gauntlet before an opponent to formally challenge him. Picking up the gauntlet signified acceptance of the challenge. Thus, such a gauntlet was not just a piece of armor but also a carrier of honor and symbolic meaning.

Technical Specifications

• Name: Merek Plate Gauntlets
• Brand: Lord Of Battles®
• Material: Approx. 1.6mm (16-gauge) Mild Steel
• Inner Gloves: Suede leather (black with red detailing)
• Fastening: Leather strap with brass buckle
• Overall Length: Approximately 10 inches (25.4 cm) from the tip of the middle finger to the end of the cuff
• Width: Approximately 5.1 inches (13 cm)
• Size: One size, fits most adult male hands
• Features: Articulated for free movement, handmade

Caring for Your New Plate Gauntlets

To ensure your Merek Plate Gauntlets serve you for a long time and maintain their beauty, give them a little care:

• Rust Prevention: After each use, especially if they have come into contact with moisture or sweat, carefully dry the steel parts. Regularly apply a light coat of oil (e.g., WD-40, gun oil, or mineral oil) with a cloth to prevent rust. Wipe off any excess oil.
• Leather Care: Keep the inner suede gloves and leather straps clean and dry. If necessary, wipe them with a slightly damp cloth or use a special suede cleaner.
• Storage: Store the gauntlets in a dry place. Avoid prolonged storage in humid environments.

With these Merek Knight Gauntlets, you'll be ready for any adventure, and your appearance will command attention and respect!