Lorica Squamata - Roman Scale Armour in Brass with Shoulder Doubler

Imperial Roman Brass Scale Armour Lorica Squamata With Shoulder Doubling

Historical Context and Usage

The Roman scale armour, historically known as Lorica Squamata, saw its most widespread use during the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. While modern media frequently portrays Roman legionaries exclusively in plate armour (Lorica Segmentata), archaeological findings and surviving reliefs indicate that scale armour was incredibly popular across the Roman army. It was favored not only by commanding officers like centurions but was also heavily used by cavalrymen, archers, auxiliary troops, and standard-bearers (Signifer). The individual scales, or squamae, were designed to mimic the overlapping skin of fish or reptiles, providing excellent flexibility while effectively deflecting slashing blows from enemy weapons.

Construction and Materials

This premium two-piece replica is crafted with a deep respect for historical accuracy. It is constructed from thousands of cast brass scales, approximately 0.4 to 0.5 mm (26 to 24 gauge) thick. Each scale features a central ridge for added structural strength and is securely stitched with strong thread onto a heavy-duty brown cotton canvas backing. The sleeveless cuirass is completely bound in tough, vegetable-tanned leather to prevent the canvas from fraying and to protect the wearer from sharp edges. The set is completed by the fully detachable shoulder doubling (capelet). This crucial component protects the vulnerable neck and shoulder area and is fastened at the front with a brass hook and at the back with adjustable leather straps and buckles.

Safety Warnings and Practical Advice

Because the brass scales are stitched onto a textile backing, true to the historical originals, this is not protective armour suited for full-contact combat sports such as buhurt, Battle of the Nations (HMB), or heavy sparring. Forceful strikes with steel weapons will dent the brass scales and tear the underlying canvas. This armour is expressly designed for historical reenactment, LARP, theatrical performances, film use, and light, controlled stage combat.

To ensure a comfortable fit and to protect your body from chafing, we highly recommend wearing a padded undergarment beneath the armour. A historically accurate Roman Subarmalis is ideal, though a standard medieval padded gambeson will also work perfectly. The armour can be easily adjusted to fit your physique using the sturdy leather straps and brass buckles located on the sides.

Care and Maintenance

To keep your armour looking sharp and battle-ready, regular maintenance is required. Brass naturally tarnishes and oxidises over time. We advise using a quality brass polishing paste and a soft cloth to restore its golden shine. The leather edging and straps should occasionally be treated with a beeswax-based leather balm to prevent drying and cracking. Always store your armour in a dry place. If the canvas backing becomes damp from sweat or rain during an event, make sure to let the armour dry completely at room temperature in a well-ventilated area to prevent mould and mildew.

Recommended Accessories

To complete your authentic Roman legionary impression, we recommend wearing a period-correct linen or woollen tunic underneath the armour. This scale armour pairs beautifully with a classic Roman sword (Gladius) suspended from a military belt (Cingulum militare). Finally, do not forget to equip your feet with a pair of authentic marching sandals (Caligae).

Technical Specifications

Please note: Due to the high degree of hand-crafting involved, the specifications above may vary slightly from piece to piece. The under-tunic shown in the photographs is not included.