Articulated Knight's Plate Cuirass | Functional Fantasy Armor

Articulated Knight's Plate Cuirass | Functional Fantasy Armor

Key Features and Available Variants

This armor is designed with a focus on functionality and adjustability. Thanks to its adjustable straps, you can tailor it perfectly to fit your body and the gambeson you wear underneath.

• Material: 1.2 mm (18-gauge) Mild Steel
• Construction: Articulated front and back plates for maximum flexibility
• Fastening: 3 pairs of genuine leather straps with sturdy steel buckles (shoulders and sides)
• Interior Finish: Coated with black paint for corrosion resistance
• Finishes: Available in Polished (shiny) or Blackened (matte) options

Size Chart

When selecting your size, always measure yourself *over* the gambeson or padding you intend to wear underneath the cuirass. This will ensure a perfect and comfortable fit.

Who Is This Cuirass For?

This type of armor is the ideal choice for participants in LARP events, historical reenactment battles (HMB, Buhurt), theatrical performances, or as part of a fantasy costume. Thanks to its mobility and relatively low weight, it doesn't restrict you in combat and allows for a wide range of movements. Whether you're portraying a knight, a mercenary, or a fantasy hero, this cuirass will provide reliable protection for your torso and lend authenticity to your costume.

The Evolution of Plate Armor

Plate protection for the torso underwent significant development throughout the Middle Ages. While earlier forms relied on plates sewn into fabric (a brigandine) or simple breastplates, the high Gothic period of the 15th century introduced articulated and anatomically shaped cuirasses. The ability to bend at the waist was essential for a knight, both on horseback and on foot. A design with segmented plates, like this cuirass, is a direct legacy of the armorers' quest to create the perfect armor that would protect its wearer without turning them into an inflexible statue.

An Interesting Fact: Breathing in Armor

A common myth is that it was nearly impossible to breathe in plate armor. The opposite is true. Sophisticated designs like this one allowed the rib cage to expand during inhalation. The overlapping plates shifted slightly against each other, giving the wearer enough room for the deep breathing that is absolutely essential during the physical exertion of combat.

How to Care for Your Cuirass

To ensure your armor serves you for years to come and remains rust-free, it needs proper care.

• Steel Parts: After each use, especially in damp conditions, wipe the cuirass dry. Regularly apply a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40 or mineral oil) to prevent rust. Store it in a dry environment.
• Leather Straps: Leather tends to dry out and crack. Treat it periodically with a leather conditioner or balm to keep it supple and strong.
• Interior Coating: Regularly inspect the inside of the armor. If the protective coating gets scratched, touch up the spot as soon as possible to prevent rust from spreading underneath.