Armor Type:  Metal mesh

Brief Description:  Chain mail (or maille) is a defensive mesh constructed from thousands of interlocking metal rings. Each ring connects to four adjacent ones in a "4-in-1" pattern. This configuration provided medieval warriors with flexible, relatively lightweight protection against slashing and cutting weapons.

Key Characteristics and Construction:

Construction Methods: Historical mail was either "butted" (rings simply pressed together, which was cheaper but weaker) or "riveted" (the ring ends were flattened and joined with a metal rivet for superior durability against weapon strikes).

Materials: Maille was typically forged from iron or steel wire, but today modern historical reenactors sometimes utilize aluminum or titanium for reduced weight and easier maintenance.

Historical Impact: Widely adopted from the Iron Age through the High Middle Ages, mail was the premier defense before full plate armor took over in the 14th century.