Aluminum Chainmail Shirt Haubergon half-sleeve, Alternating Riveted Rings

Lightweight Aluminium Haubergeon, 10 mm Riveted & Solid Rings

Authentic Look Without the Burden

This mail armour features a clever construction method that, while historically inspired, utilizes modern materials for convenience. The weave is formed by alternating rows of riveted rings and solid rings. Specifically, it combines round aluminium wire rings secured with round rivets, alternating with rows of solid flat rings. This construction (known as Round Ring Round Riveted with Alternate Flat Solid Ring) ensures the shirt holds together far better than cheaper "butted" mail, which is prone to opening under stress.

The inner diameter of the rings is 10 mm, a historically accurate size for the early medieval period. The wire gauge is 16g (approx. 1.6 mm), giving the armour good volume and a realistic texture. The grey anodized finish eliminates the unnatural shine of new aluminium, providing a battle-worn aesthetic right out of the box.

Usage and Suitability

While you wouldn't last long in a medieval melee wearing aluminium, it has an indispensable place in the modern world of reenactment and entertainment:

• LARP and Cosplay: Perfect for all-day wear at festivals. No back pain or fatigue, keeping you agile for roleplay.
• Film and Theatre: Looks great on camera, doesn't jingle as loudly as steel (a plus for sound engineers), and keeps actors from overheating.
• Costume Duties: If you have to stand guard for hours as an extra or guide, this lightweight gear is a lifesaver.

Safety and Care Instructions

It is crucial to remember that aluminium is not steel. This armour is designed primarily as a costume piece.

• Not for Contact Combat: Never use this armour for full-contact fighting (Buhurt) or HEMA sparring with steel weapons. A steel blade would easily cut through or rip the soft aluminium rings, potentially causing injury.
• Maintenance: Aluminium does not rust, so messy oiling is a thing of the past. If it gets dirty, simply wash it with warm soapy water and let it dry. Be careful around sharp objects that could scratch or deform the soft metal.

For the best fit and comfort, we strongly recommend wearing a padded gambeson underneath. This not only cushions the body but also fills out the mail, preventing it from hanging loosely like a sack.

Specifications

Size Chart

The measurements below refer to the chainmail shirt itself. When choosing a size, remember that you will likely be wearing a gambeson underneath. Therefore, allow for sufficient clearance (add at least 15-20 cm / 6-8 inches to your actual chest measurement).