Why is Knight Armor So Expensive?
The question of why knight armor was so expensive can be answered by several intertwined factors, all contributing to the high cost that made it a privilege of the elite. Primarily, the expense stems from the labor-intensive manufacturing process, the high-quality materials involved, the custom fitting required, and the prestige associated with owning such a powerful and protective outfit. In essence, knight’s armor wasn’t just a suit of metal; it was a symbol of power, wealth, and a testament to the skill of the artisan who crafted it.
The Laborious Craftsmanship of Armor
Custom Tailoring for Maximum Protection and Mobility
Unlike mass-produced items, each suit of knight’s armor was tailor-made for a specific individual. This meant that an armorer, often referred to as a “Broucounier,” needed to meticulously measure the knight to ensure a perfect fit. The armor needed to provide maximum protection while allowing for sufficient mobility on the battlefield. This bespoke process demanded highly skilled artisans who spent years honing their craft. The labor involved in each piece was significant. It was not a task that could be done by an untrained person, and the best armorers were highly sought after, and their time was valuable.
Time-Intensive Production
The process of creating armor involved several steps, including forging the metal, shaping the individual plates, polishing them, and then assembling the entire suit. Each of these steps required time, patience, and expertise. It’s estimated that a single suit of armor could take several months to complete, with many hours going into each separate component. The crafting of such a complex object was not a quick process, and that time is a valuable resource that needed to be compensated.
High-Quality Materials and Their Cost
Steel and Iron: The Backbone of Medieval Armor
The primary materials used in making knight’s armor were steel and iron. However, not just any steel or iron would do. The metals needed to be of high quality, well-tempered, and durable enough to withstand the rigors of battle. Procuring quality metal was a significant expense in itself, especially since much of it was not readily available and might need to be transported from considerable distances. Furthermore, the best armor was often made from hardened steel, which involved complex processes of heating and quenching the metal, adding further to the cost.
Leather and Textile Components
While metal formed the bulk of the armor, leather and textile components were also necessary. These materials were used for padding, connecting pieces, and undergarments. High-quality leather and textiles were crucial for comfort, shock absorption, and preventing chafing under the heavy metal plates. This required more specialized artisans and the cost of these materials added to the overall expenses.
The Prestige Factor and the Knightly Class
A Symbol of Wealth and Status
Owning a full suit of custom-made armor was not just about personal protection; it was a clear symbol of wealth and status. Knights were often members of the nobility or upper classes, and their armor was a reflection of their position in society. The more elaborate the armor, the more it reflected the knight’s prominence. Thus, the desire for exceptional armor, crafted with the finest materials, and the most impressive level of skill, drove up prices even further.
The Cost of a Knight’s Lifestyle
The high cost of armor was also part of the overall expense of being a knight. This lifestyle demanded specialized training, horses, weaponry, and equipment. The armor was but one component of the entire package. The knight also needed to maintain their equipment, which often included hiring a squire to assist them and keep the equipment in fighting condition.
The overall cost
The high cost of labor, the high-quality materials used, and the prestige associated with it all contributed to the overall cost of a knight’s armor, which could reach astronomical sums. A full suit of armor was a serious investment, and that’s why it was only available to the very rich and influential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Knight Armor
1. How much did a full suit of knight’s armor cost in the medieval period?
While specific costs varied depending on region, the quality of the materials, and the skill of the armorer, expenses to equip a knight could reach up to $500,000 in modern equivalent dollars. Some researchers suggest figures as high as $3.5 million, although concrete historical examples supporting such high costs are difficult to find.
2. Is it legal to wear knight armor today?
Yes, it is generally legal for civilians to purchase and wear body armor, including replicas of knight armor. Most states abide by federal laws, with a few adding minor additional restrictions. The primary limitation is for individuals with felony convictions, where body armor ownership is restricted.
3. Why did people stop wearing knight armor?
The rise of gunpowder weapons, such as cannons and muskets, made heavy medieval armor increasingly ineffective and impractical. Lighter and more mobile soldiers became the norm, leading to the abandonment of plate armor by most armies.
4. Did knights have to pay for their own armor?
Generally, knights were responsible for providing their own armor. However, sometimes, a sovereign or a baron would provide a full suit of armor or specific pieces as a sign of favor or to reward loyal service. It wasn’t uncommon for armor damaged in battle to be replaced by the authorities that employed the knight.
5. Could medieval armor stop bullets?
No, medieval armor would be virtually useless against modern bullets. While some layered textile and leather armors might offer limited protection against low-caliber pistol rounds, the high-velocity bullets from modern firearms would easily penetrate medieval metal armor.
6. Why were knights so valuable?
Knights were valuable for their fighting ability, having undergone years of training in close-quarters combat. Medieval battles were often brutal melee engagements, and knights were a highly trained force capable of wielding specialized weapons and withstanding heavy combat.
7. Did knights get hot in their armor?
Yes, knights did get hot in their armor. Despite the excellent fit and flexibility of well-made plate armor, it was still very hot to wear, especially in direct sunlight or during intense physical activity. The insulation from the metal and padding created a sweat-inducing environment.
8. How heavy was a knight’s armor?
A complete suit of plate armor typically weighed between 15 and 25 kg (33-55 lbs). Despite the weight, the design of the armor meant the weight was evenly distributed allowing for reasonable agility, including running and jumping.
9. How did knights prevent their armor from rusting?
To prevent rust, knights cleaned their armor with a mixture of sand and urine after battle. This helped remove blood, sweat, and grime which could lead to rust. The cleaning process was essential in maintaining the armor’s integrity.
10. Can civilians buy level 4 body armor?
Yes, civilians can generally purchase and own level 4 body armor, unless they are convicted felons or they use the body armor to commit a crime.
11. Is it illegal to own medieval armor?
No, owning medieval armor is not illegal. There are no specific laws that restrict the ownership of antique or replica medieval armor.
12. What was the strongest knight armor?
Milanese plate armor is widely considered to be among the strongest. Milan was a center of armor production, with skilled craftsmen producing high-quality and durable pieces.
13. What did knights wear under their armor?
Under their plate armor, knights wore a hauberk, a chain mail coat for primary protection. Under the hauberk they wore a padded garment called an aketon for comfort and additional padding.
14. Was knight armor made of iron or steel?
Knight armor was made of both iron and steel. Plate armor typically used hardened steel, which was more durable and offered better protection than iron.
15. How did knights penetrate armor?
While longbows could penetrate armor, the biggest change was the advent of cannons and, to a lesser extent, muskets and arquebuses. These weapons could pierce the armor and bring the age of plate armor to an end.