Steel Chainmail Aventail (Collar) with Leather Trim and Dagged Edge (Riveted Round/Solid Flat Rings Ø9mm)

Steel Chainmail Aventail (Collar) with Leather Trim and Dagged Edge (Riveted Round/Solid Flat Rings Ø9mm)

This chainmail collar is designed for maximum flexibility and an authentic look for your character. As a true aventail, you can attach it to the lower edge of your helmet (historically, most often bascinets) to effectively protect your neck, nape, shoulders, and upper chest. Alternatively, it can be worn separately, draped over your gambeson or padded jack, where it serves as robust and elegant neck protection. The decorative dagged edges on its lower border will add uniqueness and period charm to your portrayal of a knight, man-at-arms, or other medieval role at LARP or historical festivals.

Historical Use and Significance of Aventails

Aventails, like this chainmail collar, were a key element of knightly armour, especially in the 14th and early 15th centuries. They were designed to be attached to helmets such as bascinets, providing vital, flexible protection for the neck, chin, nape, and shoulders – areas often left vulnerable by the helmet itself. The mail allowed the warrior free head movement, essential in dynamic combat. The lower edge of the aventail, often decorated with dagged edges as seen on this model, was not merely an aesthetic element but also reflected the Gothic fashion that influenced even military equipment.

Advantages of the Material and Specific Ring Construction

The collar is crafted from solid mild steel, lending it the necessary strength and resilience for demanding conditions. The proven weaving method, in which rows of round rings (each individually and carefully fastened with a durable dome-head rivet) alternate with rows of solid flat rings (punched from steel sheet), is historically documented and highly functional. This 'alternating' pattern ensures that the riveted connections prevent unintentional opening of the rings, while the solid flat rings contribute to the overall density and integrity of the protective mail. The 9 mm inner diameter of the rings on this model creates a denser weave than the 10mm version, which may offer slightly better protection against finer points.

A Piece of History: Dagging as a Gothic Fashion Statement?

The decorative dagged edges on the lower border of this aventail are no mere accident. Cut-out, serrated, or otherwise shaped hems on garments were immensely popular in Gothic fashion during the 14th and 15th centuries. This trend was not limited to civilian clothing but also permeated the design of armour and its accessories. It's a fine example of how, even in warfare, attention was paid to aesthetics and a representative appearance that mirrored the fashion currents of the time.

How to Care for Your Chainmail Collar with Leather Trim

To ensure your new chainmail collar with leather trim remains your pride and a reliable protective element for years to come, please observe the following regular care:

• Before First Use: We recommend lightly wiping the chainmail with a dry, clean cloth to remove any excess preservative oil from manufacturing and storage. You can preemptively treat the leather trim with a high-quality leather care product (wax or balm).
• After Each Use: If the collar has become damp (whether from sweat or rain), it is absolutely essential to dry it as soon as possible and very thoroughly. Pay special attention to the junction of metal and leather.
• Regular Maintenance: Regularly treat the metal chainmail part with a thin layer of preservative oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol). Clean and impregnate the leather trim as needed with suitable leather care products.
• Storage: Store the collar in a dry and well-ventilated place, ideally hung (e.g., on the helmet if attached) or laid out loosely to prevent deformation of the rings and allow the leather to 'breathe'.

Approximate Dimensions and Weight

This chainmail collar (aventail) is designed for optimal protection and an elegant appearance. Its key parameters are:

• Approximate weight: 1215 g (approx. 2.68 lbs)
• Minimum width of the neck opening (measured flat at the leather trim): 23 cm (approx. 9.1 inches), corresponding to a neck circumference from approx. 46-47 cm (18.1-18.5 inches) when closed/attached.
• Length of the chainmail drape (from the leather trim to the dag tips): 39 cm (approx. 15.4 inches)
• Width of the leather trim: 6 cm (approx. 2.36 inches)
• Inner diameter of the rings: 9 mm

These dimensions will help you more accurately determine how the collar will complement your armour.

Additional Information

This is a high-quality product, crafted with attention to detail, from the Lord Of Battles® brand. This chainmail collar with a leather trim and decorative dagged edges is not only functional but also a visually impressive accessory that will enhance the authenticity of your historical or fantasy character.