[Lucas Simms]

What exactly does "mass produced" mean when it comes to the pre-industrial era?
Did they find better ways of producing armour that would enable them to use thicker steel and speed up production in the same time?

If so, could such methods be replicated at home by the ordinary 21st. century man?

Thank you in advance

[Sean Flynt]

In this context I think the term (as well as the term "munition") simply means that the pieces were made quickly, without fine finish and without fitting to any particular individual. By the time of this breast there certainly were technological advances that would have allowed for fast production. Large sheets of steel, water-powered hammers and grind stones, etc. Maybe some assembly line work as well (?). A modern hobbyist craftsman can afford similar technology, substituting a wall outlet for a stream and waterwheel. Plus, we get angle grinders, drill presses, belt sanders, etc.

[Chad Arnow]

I'd imagine these were made with standardized patterns to cut out the plate and forms to mold the parts around.

[Lucas Simms]

Thanks guys