Chainmail Byrnie, 9mm Flat Ring Riveted/Solid Steel

Chainmail Byrnie, 9mm Flat Ring Riveted/Solid Steel

How Can You Use This Shirt?

Thanks to its superior construction, this riveted chainmail armour is destined for demanding applications where safety and historical fidelity are paramount.

• Historical Combat and Reenactment: The strong construction of riveted and solid rings will reliably withstand the rigours of regulated combat and lend maximum authenticity to your portrayal.
• LARP and Fantasy Battles: Become an elite warrior. This armour provides real protection and will visually set your character apart from the common levy.
• Cosplay and Film: The professional appearance and quality materials ensure your costume will look completely convincing and stand up to the demanding conditions of a film set.

A Legacy of History

The Byrnie – Backbone of Early Medieval Armies

The term "Byrnie" (from the Old Norse brynja) referred to the primary torso protection for warriors from the 9th to the 12th century. It was a shorter version of the mail shirt, typically reaching the waist or mid-thigh. Its value was immense, representing a critical investment in battlefield survival. This particular style, with a front split, was practical not only for foot soldiers but also for horsemen, allowing them to sit comfortably in the saddle.

Advantages of Material and Construction

Flat Riveted & Solid Rings – Why Is It the Best Choice?

The construction of this armour is its greatest asset. This is not cheap, butted-ring mail.

• Maximum Strength: Every other ring is securely fastened with a round rivet. Unlike butted rings, these riveted rings will not pull open under a strong impact.
• Alternating with Solid Rings: The rest of the weave consists of solid rings stamped from a strong sheet of metal. This historically accurate combination creates an incredibly tough and resilient mail fabric.
• Flat Rings: They provide a denser, flatter surface coverage than round wire rings, increasing protection against piercing attacks.
• Leather Edging and Fasteners: These are not just decorative. They reinforce the edges, increase comfort by preventing chafing, and stop the mail from snagging on undergarments. The quality buckles allow for a perfect, adjustable fit.

A Glimpse Into History

Did you know that making a single chainmail shirt was an extremely laborious process? It involved drawing wire, coiling it, cutting the rings, forging them flat, punching holes, making rivets, and finally, the riveting itself. The entire process could take hundreds of hours, which is why a mail shirt was often more valuable than a sword and was frequently passed down from father to son.

Care and Maintenance

This armour is an investment. With proper care, it will last you a lifetime.

1. Rust is the Enemy: The steel rings must be kept dry and regularly treated with a preservative oil (e.g., WD-40, mineral oil, or gun oil).
2. After Every Event: Thoroughly dry the armour (from sweat, too!) and apply a fresh coat of oil.
3. Leather Parts: Keep the leather dry. You can occasionally treat it with a leather conditioner to prevent it from hardening and cracking.
4. Storage: Do not store the shirt on a thin hanger, as this can cause the mail to stretch and deform at the shoulders. It is best to lay it flat or use a very broad, padded mannequin or stand.

Size Chart

Please choose your size carefully. We recommend taking measurements over the gambeson or padded garment you intend to wear underneath.