Different Chainmail Types and Materials You Should Know

For centuries, chainmail has been a symbol of strength, craftsmanship, and protection. From the Viking Age to the late medieval period, warriors trusted interlocking metal rings to safeguard them in battle. Today, that legacy continues through master craftsmen like Lord of Battles, who recreate this ancient armor with historical accuracy and modern precision.

In this article, we explore the most popular chainmail types and materials used by Lord of Battles — each offering unique benefits for reenactors, collectors, and LARP enthusiasts alike.

1. Dome Riveted Rings – Traditional Strength and Authenticity

Among the most iconic designs in the Lord of Battles chainmail collection are the Dome Riveted Rings. These rings are hand-crafted and secured using precision rivets, replicating authentic medieval mail techniques used by Crusader and Norman knights.

The dome riveted flat rings (alternating) or dome riveted round rings blend flexibility with enduring strength. Alternating solid and riveted rings create a mail weave that is both secure and comfortable — perfect for battle reenactments and museum-grade displays.

• Typical Sizes: 8 mm – 10 mm internal diameter
• Common Gauges: 16 g – 18 g mild steel
• Best For: Historical reenactments, collectors, and authentic armor builds

These traditional riveted rings truly represent the spirit of Lord of Battles craftsmanship — where every ring is a testament to historical dedication.

2. Butted Mild Steel – Practical and Cost-Effective

The Butted Mild Steel Chainmail from Lord of Battles offers a perfect balance between authenticity and value. Instead of rivets, each ring’s ends are butted together — a technique widely used for lightweight armor and stage wear.

Available in 10 mm / 16 gauge, this style maintains excellent flexibility while keeping costs low. Its smooth finish also allows for blackened or polished variants, giving you the choice between rugged realism and a clean silver look.

• Advantages: Affordable, flexible, and easy to maintain
• Ideal Use: Costumes, stage armor, LARP events, and decorative displays

If you want the look of authentic medieval mail without the expense of full riveting, Lord of Battles Butted Mild Steel Mail is a durable, dependable option.

3. Titanium Mail – Lightweight Power and Modern Innovation

Titanium Mail is one of the most advanced creations from Lord of Battles, blending medieval aesthetics with modern metallurgy. Titanium’s unique strength-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for extended wear — offering protection and comfort in equal measure.

A 9 mm / 17 gauge titanium weave delivers the appearance of polished steel at nearly half the weight. It’s also entirely rust-proof, making it perfect for humid or outdoor conditions where traditional mail requires regular oiling.

• Key Benefits: Ultra-lightweight, corrosion-proof, and long-lasting
• Best For: LARP, film, cosplay, and all-day wear

For reenactors and performers who want armor that looks as good as it feels, Lord of Battles Titanium Mail is the ultimate upgrade.

4. Light Aluminium Mail – Comfort Without Compromise

The Light Aluminium Mail by Lord of Battles offers maximum comfort without compromising style. Crafted in 10 mm / 16 gauge rings, this mail mimics the classic look of polished steel while remaining feather-light.

Favored by actors, cosplayers, and festival performers, aluminium mail allows effortless movement and extended wear. Despite its lightness, it maintains the elegant shimmer of genuine steel armor.

• Advantages: Lightweight, rust-free, and visually bright
• Best For: LARP, stage shows, costumes, and long-hour use

Thanks to its natural resistance to corrosion, Light Aluminium Mail is ideal for those who want the look of historical armor with modern convenience.

5. Stainless Steel Mail – Rust-Proof and Virtually Indestructible

For those who want armor that truly lasts, Lord of Battles Stainless Steel Mail is second to none. Each 9 mm / 18 gauge ring resists rust, oxidation, and wear, ensuring your mail remains bright and strong for decades.

This material provides the sheen of polished silver with minimal upkeep, making it a favorite among serious reenactors and collectors. Its durability and shine make it perfect for both combat and display use.

• Advantages: Maintenance-free, rust-proof, and mirror-finished
• Best For: Coastal climates, long-term displays, and professional reenactments

Every piece of Stainless Steel Mail from Lord of Battles represents a blend of artistry, endurance, and historical fidelity.

6. Other Notable Chainmail Variants

Beyond these five leading materials, Lord of Battles produces several other specialized mail types that cater to professional reenactors and craftsmen:

• Wedge Riveted Flat Rings (Alt.) – A denser weave offering superior strength for full hauberks.
• 6 mm Riveted Chainmail (Alt.) – Fine, intricate mail ideal for decorative and elite historical reproductions.
• Butted Spring Steel – Enhanced elasticity and resilience, providing more flexibility in movement.
• Loose Rings – Available separately for repair, customization, or DIY mail projects.

Each of these variants is forged with the same care and historical expertise that defines the Lord of Battles brand.

Conclusion: Choose the Right Chainmail for Your Quest

Selecting your ideal chainmail depends on purpose and preference:

• For historical accuracy, choose Dome Riveted Rings.
• For budget-friendly durability, go with Butted Mild Steel.
• For lightweight innovation, opt for Titanium Mail or Light Aluminium Mail.
• For maximum longevity, Stainless Steel Mail is unbeatable.

Every ring forged by Lord of Battles is part of a centuries-old legacy — connecting modern artisans to the knights, warriors, and legends who once wore these protective masterpieces. Whether you wear it in the field, on stage, or for display, Lord of Battles Chainmail ensures authenticity, strength, and craftsmanship worthy of history itself.