Knight's Steel Gorget (1.2mm / 18 Gauge)

Knight's Steel Gorget (1.2mm / 18 Gauge)

The Cornerstone of Your Plate Armour

This gorget is designed for practical use. It consists of two pieces (a front and back plate) that connect easily around the neck to secure it. The universal size and proven shape ensure that it fits most warriors comfortably over standard gambesons and arming doublets. The main advantage is the set of sturdy, riveted leather straps on top of the plates. These are specifically designed so you can easily and securely attach your pauldrons, creating integrated protection for your shoulders and arms.

The Historical Evolution of the Gorget

The gorget emerged as a distinct piece of armour in 14th-century Europe, reaching its peak of development during the 15th and 16th centuries in the era of Gothic and Renaissance plate armour. Its purpose was to protect the throat, neck, and collarbones from cuts and thrusts, which were often fatal to knights wearing only maille protection. The gorget effectively filled the gap between the helmet and the cuirass, becoming an indispensable part of the harness for heavy cavalry and infantry alike.

From Armour to a Symbol of Rank

Did you know that the gorget is one of the few pieces of armour to survive into the modern era? As plate armour became impractical on the battlefield in the 17th and 18th centuries, the gorget remained. It shrank in size, however, to become a small, often ornate metal crescent worn around the neck. It ceased to be functional protection and transformed into a purely decorative insignia, signifying the rank of a military officer. Thus, a piece of armour became a status symbol.

Caring for Your Steel Armour

As this product is made from polished mild steel, it is susceptible to rust (corrosion). To maintain its original appearance, regular maintenance is essential.

• Dry the armour thoroughly after every use.
• Wipe it down with a cloth and apply a thin layer of oil (such as mineral oil, WD-40, or a specialized conservation oil) to prevent rust from forming.
• Store it in a dry place, away from humidity.
• Any surface rust can be removed with fine steel wool (grade 000) and oil.

Product Specifications