Blackened Steel Chainmail Hauberk (Riveted Round/Solid Flat Rings Ø9mm, 18G)

Blackened Steel Chainmail Hauberk (Riveted Round/Solid Flat Rings Ø9mm, 18G)

This blackened chainmail hauberk is made for warriors, mercenaries, and adventurers seeking not only protection but also a distinctive style. Whether you're preparing for a tough LARP battle where every tactical and visual detail counts, a detailed historical reenactment of a significant engagement, or wish to lend your costume the right dark charm and authority at a fantasy festival or convention – this hauberk is the right choice. For maximum comfort, protection from chafing, and effective shock absorption, always wear it over a high-quality gambeson or aketon. Also, don't forget a sturdy belt cinched at the waist – this not only completes the historically accurate silhouette but also effectively distributes the considerable weight of the armour from your shoulders to your hips, allowing you to operate at full strength for longer and with greater comfort.

Historical Use of Chainmail Hauberks

The chainmail shirt, or hauberk, formed the backbone of personal protective gear for warriors for centuries. From the Viking era through Norman knights to the Crusaders, this form of armour offered flexible yet effective defence against slashing and piercing weapons. The length of the shirt, sleeves, and the presence of a mail coif varied with the era and tactics, but the principle of thousands of interlinked rings remained synonymous with resilience and a warrior's status.

Advantages of the Material and Unique Ring Construction

This hauberk is crafted from mild steel with a wire thickness of 1.2 mm (equivalent to 18 gauge) and features an attractive blackened finish, which not only looks formidable but also provides initial protection against corrosion. The core of its exceptional resilience is the specific and elaborate combined construction of the ring mesh: here, rows of round rings, each meticulously and individually fastened with a durable dome-head rivet, alternate with rows of solid flat rings. This sophisticated method, often described as 'alternating dome-riveted round rings and solid flat rings', is exceptionally robust and historically documented. The riveted connections of the round rings prevent them from being forced open, while the solid flat rings strategically increase the density and overall integrity of the armour. The rings, with an inner diameter of 9 mm and woven in the traditional 4-in-1 pattern, form an effective protective barrier against your opponents' weapons.

A Piece of History: The Art of Mail Making

The making of chainmail in the Middle Ages was not just a craft but a true art form, demanding immense skill, patience, and time. Each individual ring had to be formed, often with wire drawn out by hand, coiled, joined, and, in the case of riveted variants, precisely riveted. A skilled armourer or specialized mail maker could spend weeks, even months, of intensive work on a single chainmail shirt. It's no wonder, then, that high-quality chainmail was very expensive and represented a significant investment, often passed down from generation to generation as a valuable family heirloom.

How to Care for Your Blackened Chainmail Hauberk

The blackened finish offers a degree of protection, but it's still important to care for the steel hauberk properly to maintain its appearance and function long-term:

• Before Wearing: Lightly wipe the surface with a dry cloth. Always wear a gambeson or other suitable underlayer for comfort and to protect your clothing.
• After Use: If the hauberk has become damp, dry it thoroughly. The blackening may develop a patina over time or rub off in exposed areas with use – this is normal and adds to its authentic look.
• Maintenance: For long-term protection, you can very lightly oil exposed or rubbed areas with a thin layer of preservative oil (like Ballistol or WD-40) and wipe off any excess. Be careful with blackened steel to avoid damaging the finish with overly aggressive cleaning.
• Storage: Store it in a dry, ventilated place, ideally hung on a sturdy, wide hanger or an armour stand to prevent rust and deformation.

Available Sizes and Dimensions

So that your new chainmail hauberk fits like a glove, it is available in several sizes. Carefully check your measurements (including the clothing you will wear underneath, typically a gambeson) and select the correct size:

Note: Detailed measurements for chest width (armpit to armpit) and slit length are available in the original product description for sizes M, L, XL. For size XXL, no further detailed dimensions beyond chest circumference were provided.

Additional Information

Invest in a piece of history and strength with this high-quality blackened chainmail hauberk from the Lord Of Battles® brand. Become part of the legend and be ready for any adventure!