Why Knights Ditched Plate Armor: A Royal Evolution
Societal organization has changed. Today, there are no more knights, and the era of full-plate armor has long passed. The advent of firearms marked a significant turning point in the evolution of body armor, making plate armor, once an essential protection for knights, obsolete. In this article, we delve into why knights stopped wearing full-plate armor all the time and explore the modern advancements in body armor technology. We will also share a personal account of what it's like to wear modern full-plate armor during a reenactment event.
Why Plate Armor Is Obsolete for Modern Warring
When firearms became prevalent on the battlefield, the effectiveness of plate armor rapidly diminished. Unlike the plate armor made of steel, modern bullet-resistant materials are designed to withstand the impact of bullets. These materials include ceramic beryllium plates with a lattice matrix that captures fragments, effectively stopping projectiles like the .308 caliber bullet.
The Revival of Armour for Historical Reenactments
Despite the decline in practical use, plate armor and its techniques continue to captivate the public through various historical reenactment events. Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a battle and tournament event at a magnificent moated manor house in Kent. The event, themed 'battles and tournaments,' featured armored foot tournaments each afternoon.
The Author's Experience in Full Armor
The author, clad in a typical full harness dating back to the 1470s–85, experienced firsthand the weight and practicalities of historical armor. The armor, weighing around 4 and a half stone (approximately 30 kg), is quite heavy. However, the weight is better distributed when the wearer remains calm and stays in the shade, making it less of an issue during seated periods.
During the heated afternoons, the prominence of full-plate armor became evident in the context of combat. The author's 1520s-style swordfighting was intense, and the event proved quite popular with the audience. Interestingly, the author's face, covered in 'hot, struggling for breath, tired panting,' often conveyed a sense of anger and readiness for battle, which was a hit with the crowd.
Modern versus Historical Practice
While the full-plate armor was largely fine for combat and resting, certain practical limitations were present. Gloves, particularly mitten-style, made it difficult to grip items, and the demi-pauldrons, or shoulder protectors, restricted movement, including the ability to scratch one's nose or drink from a cup. Similarly, the helmet and bevor (face protection) made these actions even more challenging.
As the day went on, the author needed to take time to remove the gauntlets and then the arms and helmet for proper rest and hydration. Additionally, extensive polishing was necessary to maintain the armor in a pristine condition, symbolizing both personal grooming and the integral role of presentation in historical reenactments.
Modern Advancements in Body Armor
With the advancement in materials science, modern body armor has come a long way, offering a balance between protection and mobility. These modern advancements include lightweight materials like ceramic plates, followed by a lattice matrix that captures fragments and distributes the impact. This technology ensures that modern warriors and law enforcement officers can stay safe without sacrificing agility on the battlefield.
The author's experience with historical full-plate armor provides a unique perspective on the evolution of body armor. While it feels imposing and can be cumbersome, it also holds a certain regal and ceremonial significance in historical reenactments. Modern body armor, on the other hand, continues to innovate, balancing protection and functionality.
Conclusion
Despite the significant advancements in body armor, the romance and historical significance of full-plate armor continue to captivate enthusiasts. By reliving history through reenactment events, we can better understand the past and reflect on the present. Whether it is the weight of full-plate armor or the strength of modern bullet-resistant materials, the ever-evolving field of body armor serves to protect and inspire.