Butted vs riveted chainmail

A great topic for enthusiasts of medieval armor!

Butted and riveted chainmail are two common methods of constructing chainmail, a type of armor made from interlocking iron rings. The choice between the two methods depends on various factors, including the desired level of protection, durability, and aesthetics.

Butted Chainmail:

In butted chainmail, the rings are simply overlapped and pressed together to form a chain. The rings are not connected by a separate fastener, such as a rivet. Instead, the overlapping rings create a mechanical bond that holds the chainmail together.

Pros:

  1. Lighter: Butted chainmail is generally lighter than riveted chainmail, as it doesn't require additional weight from rivets.
  2. Easier to produce: Butted chainmail is simpler to manufacture, as it doesn't require the additional step of riveting the rings together.
  3. More flexible: Butted chainmail is more flexible than riveted chainmail, allowing for greater mobility and ease of movement.

Cons:

  1. Less secure: The mechanical bond between the rings can be compromised if the chainmail is subjected to heavy impact or stress.
  2. More prone to damage: Butted chainmail is more susceptible to damage from cuts, punctures, or abrasion, as the rings can become dislodged or broken.

Riveted Chainmail:

In riveted chainmail, the rings are connected by a separate fastener, typically a small metal rivet or a wire. The rivet passes through the rings and is then hammered or pressed into place, securing the chainmail together.

Pros:

  1. More secure: Riveted chainmail is more resistant to damage and stress, as the rivets provide a strong mechanical bond between the rings.
  2. More durable: Riveted chainmail is less prone to damage from cuts, punctures, or abrasion, as the rivets help to distribute the force of impact.
  3. Better protection: Riveted chainmail provides better protection against slashing and piercing attacks, as the rivets help to prevent the rings from being easily cut or punctured.

Cons:

  1. Heavier: Riveted chainmail is generally heavier than butted chainmail, due to the added weight of the rivets.
  2. More difficult to produce: Riveted chainmail is more challenging to manufacture, as it requires the additional step of riveting the rings together.
  3. Less flexible: Riveted chainmail is less flexible than butted chainmail, which can limit its mobility and ease of movement.

In summary, butted chainmail is a lighter, more flexible option that is easier to produce, but may be less secure and more prone to damage. Riveted chainmail, on the other hand, is a more secure, durable option that provides better protection, but is heavier and more difficult to produce. Ultimately, the choice between butted and riveted chainmail depends on the specific needs and preferences of the wearer.