Chainmail armour is genuinely strong and effective, aligning closely with the durability portrayed in the video. Historically, armor existed to protect warriors effectively, and chainmail was a preferred form for its balance of flexibility and defense.
The chainmail shown uses riveted links rather than butted ones. This detail is crucial because riveted links provide greater strength. Many cheap reproductions use butted links, which easily fail under stress. Therefore, the armour in the video realistically represents authentic chainmail construction.
Modern chainmail may feature slightly thicker links made from high-quality steel, which could make it marginally stronger than genuine medieval mail. However, the difference is minor. The fundamental protective quality remains consistent with historical standards.
The testing method in the video has some limitations. The target used weighs around 30 pounds, much lighter than an average human body. This lightness allows excessive movement upon impact. When the target sways with the thrust, the strike’s power appears reduced since less force transfers effectively to penetration.
Some argue that a real human might also sway or move slightly, which could similarly reduce the blow’s full impact. This consideration partly explains why the light target may not drastically skew real-world assessments.
The technique of the thrusts in the video diverges from modern sport fencing methods, which emphasize delivering power by uncoiling the body and leading the blade with the tip arriving before the front foot. The observed thrusts have the foot landing before the blade tip, potentially generating less impact force.
Whether these differences matter for medieval weapons or armor performance remains uncertain. Medieval thrusting may employ different biomechanics or weapon designs than modern sport fencing, making the comparison imperfect.
- Chainmail with riveted links matches historical strength and provides reliable defense.
- Modern steel chainmail might be marginally stronger but not significantly.
- Video testing on light targets may understate thrust power due to excess movement.
- Proper thrusting technique is crucial for maximizing penetration force.
- Differences in weapon use between historical combat and sport fencing affect interpretation.
Was riveted chainmail really stronger than butted chainmail?
Yes, riveted chainmail was stronger. The links are closed securely with rivets, unlike butted links that can separate more easily. Many modern reproductions use butted rings, making them weaker.
Is the chainmail in the video stronger than historical chainmail?
The chainmail shown is a bit stronger due to thicker rings and modern steel quality. But the difference is small and does not greatly surpass historical versions.
Did the video’s test accurately show chainmail’s protective ability?
The test target was too light, about 30 pounds, which moves too easily. This reduces the force of the thrust and may exaggerate how well chainmail performs.
Was the thrusting technique in the video realistic and effective?
The thrusting appeared incorrect. Proper technique requires the blade tip to hit before the front foot lands, using the body’s momentum. The video shows the foot landing first, reducing thrust power.
Could a human’s movement affect chainmail’s protection in real combat?
Yes, a person might sway or move with an attack, lessening impact force. This could influence how well chainmail resists thrusts, adding complexity unseen in the test.
