Steel thickness & tempering

The intensity levels of armour are as various as those of battle-ready swords. Not everyone needs a cuirass that can withstand a full cavalry impact. Weight, but also pricing play an important role in selecting good armour.

Steel thickness
Our armour parts are supplied in various steel thicknesses: 1,2 mm (18 gauge), 1,3 mm (17 gauge), 1,6 mm (16 gauge) and 2,0 mm (14 gauge). The strength of steel is determined by thickness and tempering.
For re-enactment battles, we recommend untempered helmets of a minimum of 1,6 mm thick, or tempered helmets of a minimum of 1,3 mm thick. When percussion weapons are used or headshots are allowed, we recommend 2,0 mm untempered or 1,6 mm / 2,0 mm tempered steel.

Tempering
Tempered steel is reheated after production. This toughens the steel and makes it less likely to be dented in case of heavy impacts. In short, tempering makes armour more flexible and tougher (not more brittle). This process is usually more expensive, but more durable as well.