Replica Weaponry - Swords - Armor

Reproduction weapons

Medieval Swords and Armor - History

The use of swords and wearing of medieval body armor was an effective means of protection in combat and war for centuries. Its use dates back to the Greeks and early roman empire where warriors and legionnaires donned metal plate and mail armor. The medieval era knights are most remembered for their elaborate Armor, and medieval battle shields in brilliant colors. But a knight's armor was more that protection. It reflected his status and lifestyle. The quality of the armor was as important and the overall look and the battle efficiency. Indeed it was a fashion statement also.

The evolution of chain mail and medieval Armour through the Maximilian era was a direct response to improvement in weaponry of the time. As weapons became more sophisticated, so did the thickness of the battle shields and the armour of the knight. Most had to not only be effective against swords attack but also flexible and agile.

The period of medieval plate armour runs from about the early 1300's to about the mid to late 1500's. During this medieval time period the evolution went from a few pieces of plate to entire suits of highly crafted works of art in metal. Prior to this time, chain mail was the most prevalent and effective type of body armament against attack from swords.

Chain mail weighed about the same as full body plate style. The average weight was about 45 - 55 pounds. However, a well made suit of plate armour was more comfortable to the wearer because it could be more evenly distributed over their body. It was worn with padding and protective clothing to further protect and insulate from the heat and cold. In the mid fourteen century knights wore both type of body armour. During this time, it was difficult for the warrior to get back up on if knocked down due the combined weight of the plate and the maille. By the early fifteenth century, most all body armament was plate as the designs and flexibility improved. A mid sixteenth century knight in full plate armour was surprisingly agile due to proper fit on the wearer.

Shipping: Most swords are shipped via UPS in the lower 48 United States. Alaska and Hawaii are shipped via Priority Mail. International orders are carried by International Parcel Post Air Mail. There are some size limitations for countries outside UK and Northern Ireland restricting shipment of the longer swords, pole arms and replica weapons. Most orders are processed in 24 - 48 hours. Lead-times vary from 1 day to 7 days in the US. International shipment take up to 3 weeks. Freight costs range in the 5% area domestic to up to 35% per sword for international orders .We will quote all international shipments.

Returns: We stand behind our merchandise. If you are not happy with your order, contact us. We will arrange a merchandise exchange or product refund. Our prices and quality are superior. Give us a try and we will make a believer out of you.

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