Back plate mail

Back plate mail, also known as a backplate or cuirass, is a type of armor that covers the back of a warrior or knight. It is typically made of metal, such as steel or iron, and is designed to provide protection against slashing and piercing attacks.

Back plate mail was a common feature of medieval armor, particularly during the 14th to 16th centuries. It was often worn in conjunction with other types of armor, such as breastplates, helmets, and gauntlets, to provide comprehensive protection.

There are several types of back plate mail, including:

  1. Solid back plate: A solid piece of metal that covers the entire back of the warrior.
  2. Laminated back plate: A back plate made up of multiple layers of metal, often with a central layer of steel and outer layers of iron or other metals.
  3. Riveted back plate: A back plate held together by rivets, which are small metal fasteners that secure the plate to the warrior's body.
  4. Articulated back plate: A back plate that is designed to move with the warrior's body, often with articulated joints that allow for greater mobility.

Back plate mail was often decorated with engravings, etchings, or other forms of ornamentation, and was sometimes adorned with symbols or emblems that represented the warrior's identity or allegiance.

Some of the benefits of back plate mail include:

  1. Protection: Back plate mail provides excellent protection against slashing and piercing attacks, making it an essential component of medieval armor.
  2. Mobility: Articulated back plates can allow for greater mobility and flexibility, making it easier for warriors to move and fight.
  3. Aesthetics: Back plate mail can be decorated with intricate designs and ornamentation, making it a visually striking component of medieval armor.

However, back plate mail also had some limitations, including:

  1. Weight: Back plate mail can be heavy and cumbersome, making it difficult for warriors to move quickly or easily.
  2. Cost: High-quality back plate mail was often expensive to produce and maintain, making it accessible only to the wealthy or powerful.
  3. Maintenance: Back plate mail required regular maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion, which could be time-consuming and costly.

Overall, back plate mail was an important component of medieval armor, providing protection, mobility, and aesthetics to warriors and knights.