I had a question regarding a costume suit I was looking to have made but I do not have access to the Makers and Manufacturers talk section.

So, I'll just stick it here and see where it ends up.

I have always had an interest in armour, the functional sort for reenactments and the more ornate costume style suits. I've never had one made, but I am interested in beginning a collection and curious as to people's opinions and experiences regarding a particular artist.

I wonder if the forum folks would share whatever opinions/experiences they have regarding Valentine Armouries.

FYI, what I am looking for is a suit that is "functional" in that it allows a full range of movement, has exceptional asthetic appeal, and is in no way "cheap" or shoddy in its craftsmanship. This particular suit is ENTIRELY for show, just costumery, for special occasions where I will not (hopefully) actually be struck with any sort of weapon whatsoever. Price isn't really an issue, I love my costumes and unusual outfits.

Has anyone found them particularly lacking in any specific area?

Does their work meet all these criteria? If so and you have commissioned work from them in the past could you provide examples(pics)?

Lastly, is there anyone who can do this who does BETTER work than Valentine to such a degree that they stand out as being on another level?

Thank you for your time-S Mazur

I've purchased a center grip round shield from Rob's Dark Ages/Viking category, and while not totally accurate (he never claimed it to be) it's a solid piece, well made, looks great. Service and shipping was great.

Rob is an extremely talented armourer and artist. You could certainly do much worse than buying from him.

Dave

Samuel, with your criteria in mind, Valentine is a solid choice. From some jousters I've spoken with, although his shop's stuff is a little on the thin side for contact sport equipment, it is very nice as costume/parade/collecting armour. Reading through their web site, your needs really seem to be the primary focus of their business.

Also, to head off some confusion, keep in mind that Rob Valentine operates a shop of dedicated artists and craftspeople. Just so you're clear (and if it is important to you) that unless you are specifically placing a customer order with Rob himself, your armour may not be made by him personally, although he may be a very big part in overseeing each project. A representative from Valentine Armouries could (please :D ) give a clearer picture, but this is how I picture things from checking out the website.

. . . and in case you're thinking the next logical question, I've checked out some of the completely "shop-built" stuff on the specials page (it is usually labeled as such if it is so there) and it was very nice.

Lastly, although some would say that spring steel is the only way to go for authenticity and durability lately, I think that for your application you could probably get a great deal better value for the dollar in a thinner-gauge mild steel. It would probably bring some very high-end details into your harness at an otherwise considerably more costly price than doing the same harness in spring steel; again, a nod to Valentine.

As to your other question, there are a great number of very talented folks making armour these days. If we had a few more details of your project, we could probably help narrow your search a bit further.

Cheers, and again, welcome!

Regarding buckles and straps - I would bet that they would use historical looking hardware for a failry small price increase. I wish I had thought to ask before i got my armour from them.

Gordon

I don't have anything to add to this topic, just wanted to say how much I admire armor and those who have commissioned armor to be made for them. I sure wish I had the money, someday maybe but doubtful. Still, when I go to the Renaissance Faire, etc., and see people in armor I take the time to look at their armor with much admiration!

Just wanted to say that the armor that those of you who have spent so much to own is greatly appreciated by many and most certainly by me!

Bob