Professional Grade Cowhide Armour Straps with Hand-Forged Buckles, Pair - Outlet
Every experienced re-enactor and combatant on the field knows the feeling: in the heat of battle, an old strap on a greave gives way or a pauldron attachment snaps. For these critical moments, as well as for a complete overhaul of your kit, we have prepared this pair of high-quality leather straps. They are crafted from genuine cowhide leather, which, thanks to a waxed surface finish, resists sweat and adverse weather conditions. Whether you need a functional repair for your plate armour or are looking for a reliable way to attach additional accessories to your gear, these straps provide the strength and historically accurate appearance you can count on. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Professional Grade Cowhide Armour Straps with Hand-Forged Buckles, Pair
Usage and Configuration
These straps are ideal for securing parts of plate armour such as couters, pauldrons, or leg guards. With a width of approx. 19mm (~0.75"), they are compatible with most historical buckles and pre-drilled holes in armour plates. When choosing the length, we recommend selecting a variant approx. 4cm (~1.5") longer than the maximum circumference you intend to wrap, ensuring enough tail for comfortable fastening. You can choose between a version with a modern technical buckle or an aesthetically striking, hand-forged buckle made of mild steel, which adds an authentic touch to your harness.
Technical Parameters
| Material | Genuine cowhide leather |
| Surface Finish | Wax-treated |
| Quantity | 2 pieces (1 pair) |
| Strap Width | approx. 19 mm (0.75") |
| Leather Thickness | approx. 3 mm (0.12") |
| Colour | Brown |
| Buckle Type | Modern or Hand-forged (optional) |
| Construction | Stitched leather loop included for the strap tail |
Historical Context and Craftsmanship
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, armour maintenance was the daily bread of both men-at-arms and knights. Leather, combined with steel, was the most stressed material in a soldier's equipment. High-quality cowhide was prized for its ability to absorb shocks and keep heavy steel plates in place even during violent movement. The hand-forged buckles offered as an option correspond to historical blacksmithing techniques, where each piece was a unique item hammered out on an anvil. The use of waxed leather is not merely an aesthetic choice but stems from the historical necessity to protect the material from moisture and rot.
Leather Care and Safety
To ensure these straps serve you for many years and do not perish, provide them with basic care:
- Regularly treat the leather with a leather balm containing beeswax or lanolin.
- If the straps get wet, let them dry naturally at room temperature. Never dry them near a direct heat source (radiator, fire), as the leather will become brittle and crack.
- Before every combat session, visually inspect the condition of the leather around the holes and at the buckle riveting for any signs of tearing.
- Safety Warning: These straps are designed exclusively for securing armour and costume accessories. Never use them for climbing, securing loads, or in any situation where their failure could risk human life.
We recommend purchasing a set of steel rivets for direct installation onto your armour or a leather hole punch if you need to add extra holes for a more precise fit.
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