full armour. It was basically used to protect the
hand from getting damaged by any sword thrusts
or cuts. A gauntlet thrown down was usually a
challenge to a battle and picked up to indicate
acceptance to the challenge. Formed in such a
way as to give the knight full protection and
flexibility in wielding the sword or other weapon.
The helmets were originally designed to protect the knight or fighter from blows to the head. Some were constructed to be light so that they could be worn throughout the day. The curved surface provided the necessary protection, making swords glance off their surface. There have been many desings implemented; from partial protection, to totally encasing the head of the wearer. In some cases it was almost imposibble to penetrate.
Scale & Male Armour
Scale armour is formed of interlinked rings of metal. Mail armour was composed of iron mail, so closely interlinked that it was proof against dagger, sword and arrow. Armour in general ranged from very light to very heavy, depending on the amount of protection one required. The full body armour weighed as much as 65 pounds but was very restrictive, whereas the scale and mail where protective enough as well as giving the movement necessary to fight.
Swords
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