Chainmail, also known as chainmaille or simply mail, is a type of armor that has been used for centuries to protect warriors in battle. It is made up of small metal rings linked together in a pattern to form a mesh-like structure. There are various types of chainmail, including butted, riveted, and wedge riveted. In this article, we will focus on how to make wedge riveted chainmail, which is known for its superior strength and durability.
To make wedge riveted chainmail, you will need a few essential tools and materials. Firstly, you will need metal rings, preferably made from steel, as it is the most durable material for armor. These rings can be purchased from specialized suppliers or made by hand using wire and a ring mandrel. Additionally, you will need rivets, which are small metal pins used to secure the rings together. Rivets can also be purchased or made by hand.
Once you have all the necessary tools and materials, you can start assembling your wedge riveted chainmail. The process begins by opening a metal ring and threading four additional rings onto it. The rings should be linked in an alternating pattern, with two rings passing through the previous ring and two rings passing through the ring before it. This creates a wedged effect, giving the chainmail its strength and stability.
After threading the rings onto the central ring, you will need to close it using rivets. To do this, you will need to align the ends of the ring and insert a rivet through the holes. Then, using a riveting tool or a hammer, you will need to flatten the ends of the rivet to secure the rings in place. This process is repeated for each individual ring, linking them together to form a sturdy chainmail sheet.
In conclusion, making wedge riveted chainmail requires time, dedication, and attention to detail. However, the end result is a strong and durable piece of armor that can withstand the rigors of battle. Whether you are interested in historical reenactment or simply enjoy the craftsmanship involved, creating your own chainmail can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. So gather your tools and materials, and start weaving your way to a truly unique piece of armor!
What is Wedge Riveted Chainmail?
Wedge riveted chainmail is a type of armor that consists of small metal rings linked together to form a protective mesh. Unlike other types of chainmail, wedge riveted chainmail is constructed using wedge-shaped rivets.
The rings in wedge riveted chainmail are typically made of steel and have a circular shape. They are linked together in a pattern known as a 4-in-1 weave, where each ring passes through four other rings to create a secure and flexible structure.
Wedge riveted chainmail gets its name from the special rivets used in its construction. These rivets have a wedge-shaped head, which helps to hold the rings together more securely than traditional round rivets. The wedges are hammered into place, creating a tight connection between the rings.
One of the key advantages of wedge riveted chainmail is its strength. The wedge-shaped rivets provide a more secure connection between the rings, making the armor less prone to coming apart during combat. This type of chainmail is particularly popular for historical reenactments and medieval-themed events.
Wedge riveted chainmail can be constructed in various forms, including shirts, coifs, and hauberks. It provides effective protection against cutting and stabbing attacks, while still allowing for a good range of movement. However, it is worth noting that wedge riveted chainmail can be heavier and more expensive than other types of chainmail due to the additional rivets and labor-intensive construction process.
Overall, wedge riveted chainmail is a durable and visually striking type of armor that has been used for centuries. Its unique construction using wedge-shaped rivets makes it a popular choice for those who seek authenticity and reliability in their armor.
Step-by-Step Guide
If you want to make wedge riveted chainmail, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Gather the materials needed, including steel rings, pliers, a mandrel, and a hammer.
- Start by making a few rings at a time by wrapping wire around the mandrel and cutting the rings open with pliers.
- Once you have a sufficient number of rings, open one of them and thread four closed rings onto it.
- Close the ring and repeat this process until you have a long chain of interlinked rings.
- Take another open ring and thread it through the last two closed rings of the previous chain, adding two more closed rings onto it.
- Close the ring and repeat this pattern of adding rings to create a new chain.
- Continue adding rings and interlinking them until you reach the desired length for your chainmail piece.
- To create a sheet of chainmail, repeat the previous steps to make multiple chains of the desired width.
- Connect the chains together by threading rings through adjacent rings on different chains.
- Secure the rings by riveting them together using a hammer to flatten the ends.
- Repeat this process for all intersections to ensure a sturdy and durable chainmail piece.
Once you have completed these steps, you will have your very own wedge riveted chainmail ready to use as armor or for historical reenactments.
Gather the Materials
Before you can start making wedge riveted chainmail, you will need to gather the necessary materials. Here is a list of items you will need:
1. Wire
The most important material for making wedge riveted chainmail is wire. Look for wire that is specifically designed for chainmail making. It should be strong and durable, such as stainless steel or galvanized steel wire.
2. Wire cutters
You will need a pair of wire cutters to cut the wire into individual rings. Make sure to choose wire cutters that are suitable for cutting the gauge of wire you are using.
3. Mandrel
A mandrel is a cylindrical rod or dowel that is used for shaping the rings of chainmail. It should be made of a material that won’t damage the wire, such as wood or plastic.
4. Rivets
In addition to the rings, you will also need rivets to connect the rings together. Make sure to choose rivets that are compatible with the gauge of wire you are using.
5. Rivet setter
A rivet setter is a tool used to set the rivets in place. Make sure to choose a rivet setter that is suitable for the size of rivets you are using.
6. Pliers
You will need a pair of pliers to manipulate the rings and rivets. Choose pliers that are comfortable to hold and have a good grip.
Once you have gathered all the materials, you will be ready to start making wedge riveted chainmail.
Prepare the Rings
Before you start making wedge riveted chainmail, it’s essential to prepare the rings that will be used in the construction process. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Select the Metal
Choose the type of metal you want to use for your chainmail. Common options include stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminum. Consider factors such as durability, weight, and cost when making your selection.
2. Determine the Ring Size
The size of the rings you use will depend on the desired pattern and overall design of your chainmail. You can choose from various ring sizes, ranging from 8mm to 16mm in diameter. Keep in mind that smaller rings will result in a finer weave, while larger rings will create a looser, more visible pattern.
3. Purchase or Cut the Rings
If you prefer a quick and convenient option, you can purchase pre-cut rings from a chainmail supplier. These rings are often provided in bulk and have clean, smooth edges. However, if you’re looking for a more hands-on approach, you can cut your own rings from a metal rod using a ring cutter or wire cutters. Ensure that the rings are cut cleanly and have no sharp edges.
4. Clean and Polish the Rings
After you have the rings in the desired size, it’s important to clean and polish them before use. Metal rings often come with oil or residue from the manufacturing process, so you need to remove any impurities. You can clean the rings by soaking them in warm soapy water or using a degreaser. After cleaning, rinse the rings thoroughly and let them dry completely.
By following these steps to prepare the rings, you’ll have a solid foundation for creating your wedge riveted chainmail.
Begin the Weaving Process
Once you have prepared your rings and gathered all the necessary tools, you can begin the weaving process for your wedge riveted chainmail. Follow these steps to achieve the desired pattern:
1. Attach the First Four Rings
To start, take four rings and close them using the pliers. Place two rings inside the other two rings, forming a pattern that looks like the number “8”.
2. Add Rings to the Pattern
Take a closed ring and slide it through one of the rings in the “8” pattern. Close the ring with the pliers. Then, add another closed ring to the same ring you just added, creating a new pattern that resembles an “X”. Repeat this step until you reach the desired length for your chainmail piece.
3. Connect Rows
Once you have completed a row, start a new row by adding rings to the previous row in a similar manner. Ensure that the rings are properly connected and closed tightly to maintain the strength and integrity of the chainmail.
| Row 1 | Ring 1 | Ring 2 | Ring 3 | Ring 4 | … |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Row 2 | Ring 5 | Ring 6 | Ring 7 | Ring 8 | … |
| Row 3 | Ring 9 | Ring 10 | Ring 11 | Ring 12 | … |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
Continue the weaving process until you have completed the desired length and width for your wedge riveted chainmail. Remember to adjust the ring sizes as needed to create a strong and flexible chainmail piece.
