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Chainmail Voiders | Flat Ring, Wedge Riveted, Alternating Solid
Are you building a plate harness and facing the age-old dilemma of how to cover the weak points in the armpits and inner arms without wearing a full, heavy hauberk? The solution used by knights since the 14th century is voiders. These chainmail pieces are designed to be sewn directly onto your arming doublet or gambeson. They provide maximum protection where the plate armor ends, while saving you pounds of unnecessary weight. Further product information ...
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Chainmail Voiders | Flat Ring, Wedge Riveted, Alternating Solid
Historical Accuracy and Construction
This pair of chainmail voiders is crafted with an emphasis on historical authenticity. The mesh consists of flat rings, typical for the late Middle Ages. The construction alternates rows of riveted rings with rows of solid (punched) rings. This solution, historically known as "alternating rows," increased the durability of the maille and sped up armor production.
The rings are connected using wedge rivets. This detail will be especially appreciated by discerning re-enactors, as wedge riveting is much more typical for High and Late Medieval European armor than round riveting.
How Do Voiders Work?
These chainmail segments are shaped like troughs rather than closed sleeves. They are designed to protect specific areas when sewn onto the undergarment:
- The armpit (axilla) – a critical spot often targeted by thrusts.
- The inner side of the arm.
- The sides of the torso around the ribs.
Thanks to this shape, the maille won't bunch up under your plate arm harness and won't restrict your movement during fencing.
Technical Specifications
| Mesh Type | Flat Ring, alternating riveted and solid |
| Riveting Style | Wedge Riveted |
| Material | Mild Steel (untreated) |
| Ring Inner Diameter | 9 mm (approx. 0.35 inches) |
| Wire Thickness | approx. 1.5 mm (17 gauge) |
| Total Length | approx. 61 cm (approx. 24 inches) |
| Package Contents | 1 pair (left and right), gambeson NOT included |
Installation and Care
For proper function, the pieces must be sewn onto your arming clothes with strong thread (preferably waxed linen). We recommend performing the installation while wearing the garment or using a mannequin so that the maille follows the arm's movement.
Since the voiders are made of mild steel, they require regular maintenance to prevent rusting:
- Store in a dry place.
- After each use (even if worn under plates), wipe them down and oil them (e.g., with WD-40, Ballistol, or gun oil). Sweat and humidity are steel's worst enemies.
- This type of steel is suitable for re-enactment, historical fencing, and costume purposes. For full-contact battles like HMB/Buhurt, consider whether your association's rules require tempered steel rings, which are more resistant to piercing from heavy blows.
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