Identifying this Harness -- myArmoury.com

Andrew MJ · Posted: Sat 29 Aug, 2015 12:53 am Post subject: Identifying this Harness

Hi, not sure where this belongs but this seems like the best place.

I bought this armour on craigslist recently and have had trouble placing it in its era. The breastplate doesn't look like a reproduction of anything specific, but I could be wrong. After looking at hundreds of pictures on the forums and on pinterest, flickr, etc. I still can't place the breastplate.

Is it a composite of different eras or is it all relatively from the same period? 1400-1500? I'm trying to narrow down what type of helmet to buy!

Thanks!

Edward Lee · Posted: Sat 29 Aug, 2015 1:25 pm Post subject:

That harness was made by armstreet, it was their first generation Gothic harness. It was not accurate but their current second generation is a lit better.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Sun 30 Aug, 2015 10:15 pm Post subject:

Thanks Edward. So my next question is: What helmet would you guys recommend?

If this is loosely based on an armour style, then a gothic sallet would go with the "gothic" style?

A klappvisier bascinet is from the transitional period of armour correct? So that wouldn't fit.

Thanks for your help! I'm pretty new to this and finding it all fascinating.

EDIT: So I've been wondering which of these would be a good option.

http://www.warriorsandwonders.com/GDFB/GDFB_E...14Ga_Large
I prefer this as it comes with a Bevor.
http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=...ace+Sallet
The other sallets on KoA are 18 gauge. I intend to batter this around a bit! Happy

http://www.warriorsandwonders.com/GDFB/GDFB_H...ium_AB0423
Are most bascinets from the transitional period? Or would some fit with this armour?

Mark Griffin · Posted: Tue 01 Sep, 2015 1:34 pm Post subject:

a sallet or armet would be the way to go.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Tue 01 Sep, 2015 1:57 pm Post subject:

I have my eye on a sallet. An Armet could be interesting. A little more difficult to find in Canada. Thanks Mark.

Edward Lee · Posted: Tue 01 Sep, 2015 4:38 pm Post subject:

http://www.battlemerchant.com/Helmets/Battle-...:5320.html

Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 1:24 am Post subject:

btw, I only suggested an armet as I thought aesthetically it might work. Should be a sallet if you want to be more accurate as its trying to be a bit 'gothic' or N European.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 8:05 am Post subject:

Thanks. Battle merchant has some great prices. Looks like decent quality, too.

Yea, I'd like to stick as close as possible to period accurate helmets. As much as that's possible anyways, lol.

EDIT: Ok, this one looks awesome. Fully articulated bevor, riveted to the inside of the helmet. But no liner. Is a padded cap a good substitute? http://www.battlemerchant.com/Helmets/Late-Mi...:3180.html

Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 8:15 am Post subject:

The armet is period accurate, but not regionally. But prefer them for looks and use.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 8:28 am Post subject:

Ok good to know. Yea, I think I'd like to be regionally accurate as well, not that Armets don't look just as awesome if not more so. Thanks for the info.

EDIT: I plan on sparring using this armour, so is there much of a difference functionally between the sallet and armet? In other words, which would be better to keep my head from ringing? Happy

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 8:45 am Post subject:

Also, I don't have an arming jacket or gambeson. Having difficulty finding one that's suitable and will hold up well.

Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 8:56 am Post subject:

Many jousters and foot combat exponents worldwide use these. I have many and swear by them as the only versions worth considering in that price range.
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http://historicenterprises.com/index.php?main...cts_id=713

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Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 8:58 am Post subject:

But have a care to work out what mail system you are using before plunging in to doublet purchase. Lots of new theories and research out there so before asking HE to make something with loads of point holes in, make sure you need to.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 9:01 am Post subject:

Wow, yea, I saw that in another thread. Pretty amazing work they do. I will definitely consider it. Would you recommend the linen or cotton version?

Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 9:06 am Post subject:

I have both and they all stand up pretty well. My principle jousting one is cotton and is only starting to wear out after 6 or so tears of very hard use.

I feel the cotton one breathes better and is easier to clean but its totally down to what the cloth is. Linen would be the only choice for living history purposes of course.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 9:23 am Post subject:

Good to know. Yea, it looks great. Really considering it. The price hurts though, Can't imagine a higher price range than that! Laughing Out Loud

Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 11:32 am Post subject:

Its incredibly reasonable for a bespoke garment.

But there again i joust so have the mentality that if its not right you'll probably be injured or worse. Each and every part of what you wear and use has to be 100% or forget it. Buy cheaper and you'll be buying again very soon most likely.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 11:54 am Post subject:

Great point. Yea, I can't imagine a cheaper one being of any use whatsoever if it tears after a few hits. That just won't do.

Mark Griffin · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 12:43 pm Post subject:

Its not only the strength, its the movement and comfort. Those have had some serious testing in the field so work.

Andrew MJ · Posted: Wed 02 Sep, 2015 2:29 pm Post subject:

Ok, I swear the price just went up on that sallet from 175,99 Euro to 199,99 Euro.

http://www.battlemerchant.com/Helmets/Late-Mi...:3180.html

I think the VAT was added in for everything. Maybe.