Knight Leg Armour: Types, History & Materials

The evolution of knight leg armour reflects advancements in both metallurgy and battlefield tactics throughout the medieval period. The Royal Armouries museum houses extensive collections illustrating these developments, showcasing how plate armour, including sophisticated leg protection, became increasingly prevalent from the 14th century onward. These armour types, often crafted by skilled artisans like the famed Missaglia family of armourers in Italy, protected knights during combat, allowing them to withstand blows from weapons such as the poleaxe. Specifically, the design and materials of knight leg armour, ranging from early padded defenses to articulated steel plates, offer insight into the changing dynamics of medieval warfare and the crucial role of armour in the knightly class.

Deconstructing "Knight Leg Armour: Types, History & Materials" for Optimal Clarity

The subject of knight leg armour demands a structure that balances historical context, functional diversity, and material considerations. A well-organized article will allow readers to quickly grasp the evolution and intricacies of this crucial component of medieval and Renaissance battle protection. The following provides a suggested structure, designed for accessibility and comprehensive coverage of "knight leg armour."

I. Introduction:

• Briefly introduce the concept of knightly armour, emphasizing its importance in medieval and Renaissance warfare. Mention the role of individual armour components, setting the stage for focusing specifically on leg armour.
• State the article’s scope: to explore the history, types, and materials used in the construction of knight leg armour.
• Include a concise statement about the significance of leg protection for knights.

II. Historical Overview:

• Early Forms of Leg Protection (Pre-13th Century):
  • Discuss early forms of leg protection used before fully articulated plate armour. This could include padded leggings, leather, or mail chausses.
  • Mention the limitations of these early forms and the impetus for developing more advanced protection.
• The Rise of Plate Armour (13th-16th Centuries):
  • Chart the evolution of plate armour, highlighting the gradual development of leg armour.
  • Explain the reasons behind the increasing sophistication of armour, linking it to changes in weaponry and combat tactics.

III. Types of Knight Leg Armour:

This section is best organized chronologically, showing the development and diversification of leg armour types.

• Mail Chausses:
  • Describe mail chausses – trousers made of interlinked metal rings – that served as initial leg protection. Discuss their construction, advantages (flexibility), and disadvantages (limited protection against blunt force and piercing weapons).
• Early Plate Components (14th Century):
  • Introduce early plate elements such as:
    • Poleyns: Knee cops offering initial knee protection.
    • Greaves: Shin protection, initially splinted or partial, attached over mail.
• Fully Articulated Plate Armour (15th-16th Centuries): This section should be highly detailed, breaking down the individual components and their function.
  • Cuisses: Thigh protection, often constructed of multiple plates hinged together for mobility.
  • Poleyns: Elaborate knee protection, sometimes with additional plates to protect the sides of the knee.
  • Greaves: Full shin protection, often hinged to allow for opening and closing around the leg.
  • Sabatons: Foot protection, with individual plates conforming to the shape of the foot. Explain the evolution of sabatons, including:
    • Duckbill Sabatons: Wide, flamboyant sabatons popular in the 15th century.
    • Pointed Sabatons: More streamlined sabatons.
• Variations and Regional Styles: Highlight any significant regional differences in leg armour design. For example, differences between Italian, German, or English armour styles.

IV. Materials and Construction Techniques:

• Iron and Steel:
  • Discuss the types of iron and steel used in armour production.
  • Explain the process of hardening and tempering steel to improve its strength and resilience.
• Construction Methods:
  • Describe the techniques used to shape and assemble armour plates. This includes:
    • Hammering: Shaping the metal using hammers and anvils.
    • Riveting: Joining plates together using rivets.
    • Leather Straps and Buckles: Securing the armour to the wearer.

V. Armour Maintenance and Preservation:

• Explain the need for constant cleaning and care of armour, to prevent rust.
• Discuss what measures were taken to preserve the armour throughout history.
• Explain the modern approach to armour restoration and preservation.

This structural framework provides a logical progression through the topic of knight leg armour, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience for the reader.

So, the next time you see knight leg armour in a museum or depicted in a film, hopefully you’ll have a better appreciation for the craftsmanship, evolution, and vital role it played in protecting medieval warriors. It’s a fascinating blend of engineering and artistry, reflecting the ever-changing needs of warfare.