Dragon mail body armor

Dragon Mail Body Armor!

Dragon Mail, also known as "Dragon's Scale" or "Dragon's Skin," is a type of medieval body armor that was popular in Europe during the 12th to 14th centuries. It's a unique and fascinating piece of armor that has captured the imagination of many historians, reenactors, and enthusiasts.

Here's a brief overview:

What is Dragon Mail?

Dragon Mail is a type of articulated body armor made from interlocking iron rings, typically 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) in diameter. The rings are linked together to form a flexible, mail-like armor that covers the torso, arms, and legs. The armor is designed to provide protection against slashing and piercing attacks, while allowing for flexibility and mobility.

How was it made?

The construction of Dragon Mail involved several steps:

  1. Forging: The iron rings were forged into shape using a combination of hammering and heat treatment.
  2. Linking: The rings were linked together using a process called "riveting," where a small piece of metal was inserted into the ring and hammered into place.
  3. Assembly: The linked rings were then assembled into a complete suit of armor, often with additional components like a helmet, gauntlets, and greaves.

Characteristics and advantages

Dragon Mail body armor has several notable characteristics:

  1. Flexibility: The articulated design allows for a high degree of flexibility, making it suitable for mounted warfare and other activities that require mobility.
  2. Protection: The interlocking rings provide excellent protection against slashing and piercing attacks, while the flexibility allows for some absorption of impact.
  3. Weight: Dragon Mail is relatively lightweight compared to other types of armor, making it easier to wear for extended periods.
  4. Cost: Dragon Mail was considered a relatively affordable option compared to other types of armor, making it accessible to a wider range of warriors.

Limitations and challenges

While Dragon Mail was an effective and popular form of armor, it had some limitations:

  1. Vulnerability to blunt trauma: The armor was not designed to absorb blunt trauma, making it vulnerable to crushing blows from maces, war hammers, and other blunt weapons.
  2. Limited protection against arrows: The armor's flexibility and articulated design made it less effective against arrow fire, as arrows could easily penetrate the gaps between the rings.
  3. Maintenance: Dragon Mail required regular maintenance to prevent rust and corrosion, which could be time-consuming and costly.

Legacy and impact

Dragon Mail body armor played a significant role in medieval warfare, particularly during the Crusades and the Hundred Years' War. Its unique design and flexibility made it a popular choice among knights and men-at-arms. Although it eventually fell out of favor with the development of more advanced armor technologies, Dragon Mail remains an iconic and fascinating piece of armor that continues to inspire historians, reenactors, and enthusiasts alike.