Classic Plate Pauldrons, 1.6 mm Steel

Classic Plate Pauldrons, 1.6 mm Steel

Product Details

Construction and Material

The foundation of these pauldrons is 16-gauge (1.6 mm) cold-rolled mild steel, ensuring high resistance to impact. Each pauldron consists of a large, dished shoulder cop that covers the joint, and three subsequent, overlapping lames that protect the upper arm. These lames are riveted to internal leather straps, which allows for their smooth, articulated movement.

• Heavy-Duty Steel: Durable 1.6 mm steel for maximum protection.
• Full Mobility: The articulated design does not restrict arm movement in combat.
• Polished Finish: A smooth, polished surface gives the armour an authentic, knightly appearance.

Fastening and Adjustment

The pauldrons are designed for easy and secure attachment to the rest of your gear. At the top of each pauldron, a sturdy leather tab with holes is riveted on, allowing you to easily tie it with leather cords (known as "points") to your gambeson, arming doublet, or gorget. An adjustable leather strap with a steel buckle secures the pauldron around the bicep, ensuring it stays firmly in place and follows your every move.

Practical Uses

These versatile pauldrons are an excellent choice for:

• Historical Reenactment and Living History
• LARP and Costume Events
• Theatrical and Film Productions
• Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) Training
• Completing a collection for any medieval enthusiast

Important Notice

Although these pauldrons are made from strong material, they are primarily intended for reenactment, LARP, and theatrical combat. They are not certified as personal protective equipment and do not offer sufficient protection for full-contact combat sports like buhurt (HMB) or Battle of the Nations.

Table of Measurements

Below you will find detailed measurements to help you verify a perfect fit. The total weight of the pair is approximately 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs).

History of Shoulder Protection

In the 14th century, with the advancement of plate armour, shoulder protection became crucial. Simple chainmail was no longer sufficient against the force of new weapons. The first plate pauldrons were often asymmetrical and gradually evolved into the more complex and fully articulated forms you see here. These "symmetrical" pauldrons became the standard for both infantry and mounted warriors in the 15th century, as they offered the perfect balance between protection and mobility.

A Historical Fact

Did you know that in tournament armour for jousting, the left pauldron was often much larger and more massive than the right one? This was because the left side of the body, holding the shield and reins, was more exposed to the impact of the opponent's lance. The right arm, which wielded the lance, required maximum freedom of movement.

How to Care for Your Pauldrons

To keep your steel pauldrons looking great and free of rust, follow these simple steps:

1. After each use, wipe them down thoroughly with a dry cloth to remove any moisture or sweat.
2. Apply a thin layer of protective oil (e.g., Ballistol or WD-40) to the metal surface.
3. Occasionally treat the leather straps with a leather conditioner to keep them supple.
4. Store them in a dry place, ideally hanging or lying on a soft surface.