How strong is bronze mail
Bronze mail, also known as lamellar armor, was a type of armor used in ancient times, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The strength of bronze mail depends on various factors, including the quality of the bronze, the thickness of the plates, and the craftsmanship of the armorers.
In general, bronze mail was considered to be a relatively lightweight and flexible armor, but still provided good protection against slashing and piercing attacks. Here are some approximate values for the strength of bronze mail:
- Weight: 10-20 kg (22-44 lbs) for a full suit of armor, depending on the size and thickness of the plates.
- Thickness: 0.5-2 mm (0.02-0.08 in) for the bronze plates, with some examples reaching up to 3 mm (0.12 in) or more.
- Hardness: Bronze mail was typically made from a relatively soft bronze alloy, with a hardness of around 50-60 HB (Brinell hardness), which is equivalent to around 150-200 N/mm² (newtons per square millimeter).
- Impact resistance: Bronze mail was designed to absorb impact by flexing and deforming, rather than shattering or cracking. It could withstand moderate impacts, such as those from arrows or glancing blows, but might not be effective against direct hits from heavy projectiles or blunt trauma.
- Slash resistance: Bronze mail provided good protection against slashing attacks, as the overlapping plates and articulated joints allowed for some flexibility and movement. It could withstand multiple slashes and cuts, but might not be able to stop a strong, focused blow.
- Piercing resistance: Bronze mail was less effective against piercing attacks, such as those from spears or arrows. The plates were relatively thin and might not be able to stop a well-placed, sharp point.
It's worth noting that the strength of bronze mail varied depending on the specific type and quality of the armor, as well as the skill and experience of the armorers who crafted it. Additionally, bronze mail was often used in combination with other forms of armor, such as leather or fabric, to provide additional protection.