Chainmail Hauberk - Flat Riveted - 9mm Solid Flat Rings Mild Steel

Chainmail Hauberk - Flat Riveted - Solid Flat Rings Mild Steel

The measurements below are taken when the item is stretched in the measured direction. The sizes vary slightly - so the measurements stated below are to be understood as approximations.

Appearance and Construction:

This chainmail shirt boasts a classic look with long sleeves and a length extending approximately to mid-thigh, offering you freedom of movement whilst protecting your torso and upper legs. There's a practical vent at the bottom front hem for even easier movement, for instance when riding or in combat. The shirt features a natural metallic finish without any additional coating. It is crafted from sturdy flat rings made of mild steel, with a wire thickness of 17 gauge (approximately 1.45 mm). The inner diameter of the rings is 9 mm.

Unique Ring Construction:

What makes this shirt exceptional is its specific construction, combining historical accuracy and strength. The mail is composed half of flat rings, meticulously fastened with robust wedge rivets, and half of flat rings that are punched solid (solid, unbroken rings).

Advantages of this Construction:

• High Strength: Riveted links are significantly more resistant to being pulled apart than butted rings. Wedge rivets ensure a very secure connection. The use of solid (punched) rings further increases the overall resistance of the mail to damage.
• Historical Authenticity: This method of production, combining riveted and solid rings, was employed in the Middle Ages as an effective technique that offered excellent protection with slightly less labour involved than fully riveted armour.
• Flexibility and Weight: The combination of different ring types ensures good flexibility whilst maintaining robustness, without unnecessarily increasing the weight.

Historical Use:

Chainmail shirts of the hauberk and haubergon type were a fundamental part of the armour for European warriors, particularly knights and men-at-arms, during the High Middle Ages (roughly 11th to 14th centuries). They were worn over a padded garment (gambeson or aketon), which absorbed impacts and increased comfort. They were used in foot combat as well as on horseback, on battlefields, and in tournaments.

How and Where Can You Use It?

This chainmail shirt is ideal for:

• Historical Fencing and Reenactment: Experience authentic battles and historical presentations with credible and functional armour.
• LARP: Enhance your character with durable and stylish protection.
• Theatre and Film: A superb costume piece for historical plays and filming.
• Collecting and Decoration: A distinctive item to adorn your collection or interior.

For greater comfort, especially during longer events, we recommend wearing the shirt over a suitable padded undergarment and cinching it with a belt, which helps to distribute its weight more effectively.

Care Instructions:

As the shirt is made from mild (carbon) steel, it is prone to rust. To keep it in good condition for as long as possible:

1. Keep it Dry: After each use, especially if exposed to sweat or moisture, dry it thoroughly.
2. Conserve it Regularly: Apply a thin layer of oil (e.g., gun oil, WD-40, mineral oil, or specialist rust inhibitors) to the shirt regularly.
3. Proper Storage: Store it in a dry place, ideally lightly oiled and wrapped in an oily cloth or paper.
4. Rust Removal: Should rust appear, carefully remove it with fine steel wool (not a wire brush, to avoid damaging the rivets) and re-treat the area with oil.

With this chainmail shirt, you gain not only reliable protection but also a piece of honest craftsmanship echoing medieval fortitude. Be ready to face any challenge!

A high-quality product made by Lord Of Battles®