You look upon your leading officer as he makes his way down the line of your fellow soldiers. Your fate and the fate of your entire unit is dependent on this veteran’s word, and you find yourself relieved not to shoulder such a heavy burden.
“We must fight!” your officer shouts for all to hear. You adjust your Leather Brigandine, double checking the buckles as you listen to him continue. “For our homes and for our families, we will fight until we can fight no more!” With a resounding cheer, your fellow soldiers ready themselves for the charge. You withdraw your weapon, eager and afraid all at once.
The battle has begun.
DETAILS
Epic Armoury's Leather Brigandine is leather armour reinforced with heavy leather plates designed to protect the entire torso, upper thighs and groin. Made from full-grain leather and brass coated rivets, this menacing waistcoat is both lightweight and durable. Secure this brigandine with five heavy leather straps and brass buckles down the front, further adjustable by tightening leather cords along the flanks between the armpit and midthigh.
The Leather Brigandine is fully compatible with other Epic Armoury armours, and its distinctive but low-fantasy style allow it to be used across games and characters. With the proper leather care, you can expect this armour to withstand the abuse of a LARP or reenactment for a long time!
Available in Black and Brown; and in sizes Small/Medium and Large/X-Large.
HISTORY
- Worn over a gambeson or coat of chainmail by soldiers ranging from archers to knights
- Came into wide use during the 1400s, but this particular style was more popular in the 16th century
- Provided more mobility, but less protection than plate armour
- Made from natural, full-grain quality leather
- Straps and fittings made from natural, top-grain quality leather
- Brass buckles
- Stitching around edges strengthen structural stability and increase lifetime
- Colours dyed into material
- Handmade by qualified professionals. Measurements are approximations.
Natural leather products are very durable, but require regular maintenance with leather care products to stay flexible and to increase life-time. Make sure your leather products are kept dry when stored. Let wet leather dry naturally before treating. If frequently wet and dry, increase frequency of maintenance.
Cleaning
Clean by removing dirt with a hard brush, then gently rub on leather soap with a clean, damp cloth until the leather appears clean. Remove soap with a separate damp cloth to wipe away any soap residue and then use a dry cloth to wipe away any remaining water from the leather.
Conditioning
You should always condition leather after cleaning, since the soap will have removed some of its natural oils. Treat the leather with mink oil, olive oil, or beeswax polish with a clean cloth, gently rubbing a small amount of oil or polish in circles into the leather. Allow the leather to soak in the oil before wiping the leather with a final clean cloth to remove any excess residue.
