Did mail replace scale armor

What an interesting question!

In medieval times, mail (also known as chainmail) and scale armor were both used by knights and warriors to protect themselves in battle. While mail was widely used, it's not entirely accurate to say that mail replaced scale armor. Instead, both types of armor coexisted and were used in different contexts.

Here's a brief overview of each:

Mail (Chainmail):

Mail was a type of armor made from interlocking iron rings, typically made from steel or iron. The rings were linked together to form a flexible, protective garment that covered the torso, arms, and legs. Mail was popular among knights and men-at-arms due to its flexibility, durability, and ability to absorb impact.

Scale Armor:

Scale armor, on the other hand, was made from small, overlapping scales or plates of metal, usually bronze or iron, that were attached to a fabric or leather backing. The scales were often shaped like fish scales or leaves and were arranged in a specific pattern to provide protection. Scale armor was commonly used by infantry, archers, and crossbowmen, as it was lighter and more affordable than mail.

When did mail replace scale armor?

While mail became more popular among knights and men-at-arms, scale armor continued to be used by infantry and other troops. There is no clear evidence that mail replaced scale armor entirely. Instead, both types of armor coexisted and were used in different contexts, depending on the needs of the warrior or the type of battle being fought.

In fact, many medieval warriors used a combination of both mail and scale armor, with mail covering the torso and scale armor protecting the limbs. This combination provided a balance between flexibility, protection, and mobility.

In summary, while mail became a popular choice among knights and men-at-arms, scale armor continued to be used by infantry and other troops. There was no single moment when mail replaced scale armor, as both types of armor coexisted and were used in different contexts throughout the medieval period.