Articulated Plate Arms, 14th-15th Century, 1.6 mm Steel
Protect your arms like a knight at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries! These fully articulated plate arms, made from polished 1.6 mm mild steel, offer excellent protection for the forearm and elbow. Featuring a thoughtful design with fully enclosed vambraces, large elbow wings, and leather straps with brass buckles, you get a superb combination of mobility and safety for re-enactment, LARP, or HEMA. Further product information ...
Articulated Plate Arms, 14th-15th Century, 1.6 mm Steel
Sophisticated Protection and Historical Fidelity
This pair of plate arms is inspired by the armour of the late medieval period, when plate protection was becoming increasingly complex. Each arm consists of several steel plates that are movably riveted together, allowing for a smooth bend at the elbow. The vambraces (forearms) are fully enclosed—composed of two parts connected by hinges and secured on the other side by a sturdy leather strap with a historically accurate brass buckle. The prominent, heart-shaped wing on the couter (elbow cop) provides crucial protection for the vulnerable inside of the elbow joint. The interior of the armour is painted black for enhanced corrosion resistance.
The length of the vambraces is designed to not overlap with the cuffs of gauntlets, ensuring comfortable and functional layering of your armour. For maximum comfort and safety, we recommend wearing this armour over a quality padded gambeson.
Product Specifications
| Material | Mild Steel, genuine leather, brass buckles |
| Steel Thickness | Approx. 1.6 mm (16 gauge) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40-42 cm |
| Weight (Pair) | Approx. 3.8 kg |
| Finish | Polished steel (exterior), black paint (interior) |
| Size | Universal, adjustable with straps |
Historical Context: The Birth of Plate Limb Protection
This type of armour belongs to the so-called "transitional" period at the end of the 14th century. During this time, knights and men-at-arms gradually moved away from full maille hauberks, supplementing them with increasingly larger steel plates on the most vulnerable parts of the body. The protection for arms and legs underwent rapid development, leading to the creation of fully articulated components. The large wing on the elbow was a critical innovation that protected the inner bend of the elbow from cuts and thrusts, which had been a weakness of earlier armour types.
Caring for Your New Armour
To ensure your plate arms last a long time and do not rust, proper care is essential. After each use, especially in a humid environment, thoroughly dry the armour with a cloth. Then, apply a thin layer of oil (e.g., machine oil, WD-40, or a special conservation wax) to the surface. Store the armour in a dry, ventilated place.
Important Notice
This is a replica of historical armour that is not certified for combat. It is not designed to provide guaranteed protection in full-contact combat situations such as sport buhurt or the Battle of the Nations. The manufacturer and seller assume no liability for injuries sustained during its practical use beyond that of a costume accessory or for light stage combat.
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