Steel Chainmail Coif (Riveted Round / Solid Flat Rings Ø6mm, 18G)

Steel Chainmail Coif (Riveted Round / Solid Flat Rings Ø6mm, 18G)

This chainmail coif is a truly universal addition to your armour and costume. Whether you step into the role of a valiant knight defending their lord's honour, a cunning rogue moving through the shadows, or a fearless Viking warrior seeking glory – your head, neck, and shoulders will remain protected. It's absolutely great for dynamic reenactment battles, demanding and long LARP campaigns, as well as for detailed cosplays at cons and festivals. For maximum wearing comfort and even better protection, we strongly recommend wearing the chainmail coif over a padded arming cap or a similar under-hood. The coif is generously cut and extends over the shoulders, thereby also effectively protecting the upper part of the chest and back.

Historical Use and Significance of the Chainmail Coif

The chainmail coif, sometimes also called a mail hood or aventail (when attached to a helmet), was for many centuries one of the most fundamental, widespread, and effective forms of head protection for the medieval warrior. From the Early Middle Ages onwards, it was worn by combatants throughout Europe, from Scandinavia to the Mediterranean. It offered invaluable protection not only for the cranium itself but also for the neck, nape, and shoulders – areas extremely vulnerable in close combat. Often it was worn alone as primary head protection or served as a crucial additional protective layer under, or sometimes even over, a sturdy metal helmet (e.g., great helm, bascinet, or barbuta), thereby significantly increasing the overall level of protection and resilience against various types of attack.

Advantages of the Material and Specific Ring Construction

The coif is crafted from high-quality mild steel with an 18-gauge wire thickness (approx. 1.024 mm), which represents a proven compromise between resilience and weight. The inner diameter of the rings of only 6 mm is crucial – it creates a very dense and strong weave that offers better protection against smaller points and blades than weaves with larger rings. The key to the exceptional strength and durability of this coif lies, above all, in the specific construction where rows of round riveted rings alternate with rows of solid flat rings. Each round ring is individually riveted, ensuring that the connections do not simply spring open even under a strong impact. The solid flat rings (punched from sheet metal) additionally increase the overall strength, resilience, and density of the construction. This alternating pattern is not only functionally superior but also visually appealing and historically accurate.

A Piece of History: The Coif as a Status Symbol?

Although the chainmail coif was a relatively common and standard part of a warrior's equipment across various social strata, its specific design, the quality of craftsmanship, the extent of coverage (e.g., length over the shoulders, presence of an integrated face protection), and even embellishments or edgings could say a lot about the status, wealth, and origin of its wearer. For a simple foot soldier or less affluent mercenary, a plain, more simply made coif might have been the only available head protection. A knight or nobleman, on the other hand, could afford a coif made of higher quality materials, with a denser weave, perfect craftsmanship, and perhaps even as part of a more complex, custom-made suit of armour that was a symbol of his standing.

How to Care for Your Chainmail Coif

Mild steel requires regular care to keep your coif in good condition and functional:

• Storage: Always keep the coif dry to prevent rust.
• After Use: If it has become damp (from sweat or rain), dry it thoroughly.
• Maintenance: Lightly oil it regularly with a thin layer of preservative oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol). Wipe off any excess. Occasionally, you can clean the rings of any rust with a suitable rust remover and then re-oil.
• Wearing: Wearing it over a padded arming cap not only increases comfort but also protects your hair and skin from abrasion and oil.

Size and Approximate Dimensions

This chainmail coif is offered in a single universal size, designed to fit most adults comfortably. Its generous cut ensures sufficient coverage. The approximate dimensions are:

• Overall length (height from the crown to the bottom edge on the shoulders): approx. 55.8 cm (approx. 22 inches)
• Height of the face opening: approx. 12.7 cm (approx. 5 inches)

These dimensions will help you visualize how the coif will fit and what areas of your head, neck, and shoulders it will protect.

Additional Information

This premium chainmail coif is a high-quality, detailed product from the House of Warfare brand. It represents an indispensable part of the equipment for any serious reenactor, LARP fighter, or cosplayer who values authenticity and reliable protection. Equip yourself like a true medieval hero!