Collecting Suits of Armor

Before Medieval times, Suits of Armor were used for protection and helped to defend the wearer in combat from spears, arrows, swords and other various deadly weapons. The iron armor weighed anywhere from 25-45 pounds depending on how many different pieces were worn. Suits of armor were created to be used in wars, tournaments and for show, displaying beautiful decorations, etched patterns and fluting. Some Suits of Armor covered the whole body including the chest, back, shoulders, arms, thighs, knees, and hands. Helmets were made of the same material covering the head, ears, and back of the neck.

The armor from Medieval times was hand forged from iron plate, heated and hammered out to fit the owner. These specially fitted pieces were worn over linen or woolen underclothes and attached with chains, straps and buckles. The suits were mostly worn by people of wealth or nobility, and professional soldiers doing battle for the kingdoms. As wars became more fierce, Suits of Armor were made to fit favored horses and elephants as well, which were going into battle with their masters. By the end of the middle ages, steel was discovered and new suits of armor appeared, replacing the old iron suits with even more protection.