Considering "Grape" protection

When building this coif, I decided not to go the full neck and mantle, which seems to be standard configuration. This covers the back of the neck and the throat. Also movement was considered. If I can't see the enemy how am I supposed to fight? So I think this will be adequate because the intent is to protect the head in case of loss or damage to helmet, and the neck will be protected by a rigid gorget. So this coif is really an inbetween.

Getting the face opening just right took some experimenting. I wanted to get maximum coverage without impeding vision and still be able to talk, drink water, etc. Simply tapering the maille at the cheeks and bunching the corners and middle of the chin made a tight line and eliminated droopiness.

This is the previously mentioned "bald spot". I have an idea to make the pike plate, but I really need to finish the gambeson first.

The leather cap. nothing too special. Bear with me on the stitching. I bought the right on tool to make even stiching. This may need some extra padding, and also the canvas liner for the face and back of the head will be sewn to this. I'm planning an inital impact test with a sample of the helmet padding and a sample of the 14g steel that will be the helmet, more to follow on that.

The gambeson is nearly finished. It only needs the edging finished and sleeves, which won't take too long.

Thanks for reading-

Evlmnky

The Road Ahead

Here we go. I guess this marks a transtion from hobby to aspiring, semi-pro armorer. The idea at the core of this project, is to build sturdy, well fitted , and functional battle armor for re-enactors who share my passion for medival warfare.

Starting with the basics, first a leather cap for basic head padding, then I made a maille coif. These aren't quite battle ready. First a coif has a hole in the top, like a bald spot, I'm developing a central plate to integrate into the maille to protect from pikes and the like.
Second When you put on the coif, it's rough on exposed hair and especially the ears. So a canvas liner will fix that.

Also in the works, a gambeson. Rolled canvas 1/2" thick. Built on a BDU jacket with a duck cloth shell &trimmed in leather. I had the thought to segment the canvas tubes to allow for movement. I followed body mechanics, and it really makes a difference. It feels alot like wearing military body armor; stiff but pliable. When that's completed I'll move on to a maille hauberk, a helmet, shield, etc. This is only the beginning. As soon as these items are ready to my satisfaction that the gear is superior quality; I'll gladly offer smithy services to all.

pics to follow

Mobility. Durability. Proper Fit.