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Old 25th September 2006, 09:37 PM   #4
Laurie W
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Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: SW Arizona
Posts: 11
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There is no telling if it's genuine or not. But if you bought these that many years ago, then probably more likely so.

Weight
Helmets were necessarily heavy from both manufacture and materials to protect the head. You did not say what gauge material this was made from. If you are not used to any kind of helmet on your head, it will feel heavy. However, your muscles will build up to increase stability and you will get used to it's feel. Ask any reenactor who fights wearing armour.

But nasels were not necessarily moveable but did jut out abit to conform with the slope of the nose. The skull would be oversized for using with padding (sponge, linen, leather, sheepskin et.c) for added protection. This would also raise the skull up just a tad to keep the backpiece from riding too low. (Yes, that highlighted spot looks like an "armourer's mark")

A lot of people are surprised at the weights armour and weaponry actually were as opposed to what is popularily thought.

A full mail hauberk could weigh up to 100lbs. A short sleeved byrnie could weigh 45lbs and it all hangs from your shoulders. Why belting was done to help hold up the weight. One of the advantages of plate was it's lesser weight overall and method of distribution. Outside of the specialized/heavier Tournament armour, a full harness would weigh about 65lbs or so. But then, a modern soldier would wear as much if not more with all his (or her) gear.
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