Standard (mail collar)

Standard (mail collar)

The Standard is a type of protective armor specifically designed to protect the neck and shoulders of a warrior. Historically, it was an essential component of medieval warfare equipment, often used in conjunction with other forms of body armor such as the hauberk or breastplate. The standard is a form of mail (chainmail), consisting of small metal rings linked together to form a flexible and durable fabric.

History

The use of mail in armor dates back to ancient times, with examples found in various cultures around the world. The standard, as a specific form of mail designed to protect the neck and shoulders, became prominent in Europe during the Middle Ages. It was a critical piece of the knight's armor ensemble, providing vital protection for areas that were particularly vulnerable to slashing and stabbing attacks.

Design and Function

The standard typically covered the neck, extending over the shoulders and upper chest and back. This design ensured coverage of the gaps between the helmet and the body armor, areas that were otherwise exposed to enemy strikes. The flexibility of mail allowed for a significant range of motion, which was crucial in hand-to-hand combat.

The construction of a standard involved interlocking metal rings, usually made of iron or steel. The rings could be either riveted or welded, providing different levels of strength and flexibility. The density of the rings and the method of linkage were critical factors in the effectiveness of the mail in absorbing and deflecting the force of blows.

Usage

In battle, the standard was worn over a padded garment, such as a gambeson, to reduce the impact of blows and prevent the mail from causing injury to the wearer. It was commonly used in conjunction with a helmet, which might also feature a mail aventail for additional protection of the neck and throat.

The standard remained in use until the late Middle Ages, when advances in armor technology, such as the development of plate armor, began to provide more effective protection with less weight. However, even as plate armor became more prevalent, mail, including the standard, continued to be used for areas that required more flexibility, such as the joints and under the arms.

Legacy

Today, the standard is studied by historians and armor enthusiasts as a key component of medieval warfare and defense. It is also replicated by reenactors and used in historical fencing and martial arts that seek to preserve and understand ancient combat techniques.