Overview
Ever wanted to recreate your favourite historical warrior in Mordhau? With this guide I will teach you just that.
Introduction
Mordhau is a fun and addicting game, but it all feels more like a violent LARP event. Which is fine, if anything I like players having the ability to create whatever they so please and I’m pretty impressed by some people’s creativity. But as a total nerd for history I wanted to add some of my own flair.
I’ve spent too many late nights grinding to bring you this guide. Working hard to create several characters based off those who fought in the middle ages to be as accurate as I can make them with the resources and knowledge I have for you to replicate. Keep in mind, this isn’t 100% accurate, due in part of the games limitations, and some of the armour pieces being exaggerated, anachronistic or simply inaccurate compared to the components they are based off.
Please read as of 19/9/20: I’m pretty busy focusing on real life at the moment and I haven’t had the time nor desire to play Mordhau, but you can still send me stuff if you want. I only request that you submit a unique character that isn’t already on the guide and is reasonably accurate, nothing outlandish like Samurais or Romans, as creative as they may be they do not fit the criteria for authenticity without the right gear. Please don’t get salty if I share any criticism of your characters, it is not a personal against you or your characters, just friendly feedback, likewise I am open for feedback from anyone who thinks the characters here need improvement.
Thank you for all your support!
From thy most humble lord, Burger of Fries’land
Early Middle Ages (500 AD – 1000 AD)
The Early Middle Ages was a rapid time of change following the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the great migrations. The foundation of new kingdoms in Western Europe, those especially of the Carolingians and the Kings of Wessex began at this time; while the east thrived under the Eastern Roman Empire it’s position of power was soon to be challenged by their new Muslim rivals to their south and an even more formidable foe from Central Asia. It was also the age of the vikings, who plundered the coasts and rivers of Europe for 300 years. It was a time of exploration, the rise and fall of empires and the very beginnings of Medieval Europe itself.
Mid 9th Century
The Vikings were feared as they were renowned warriors, and left a lasting legacy in both East and Western Europe. The Housecarls were fighting men serving their lord or king as part of an elite retinue, they fought at his side and defended him even to a violent grave.
Armour:
Head: Viking Helmet, Spangenhelm/Stripped, Valsgarde Basic/With Ear Guard/Faceplate/Faceplate & Ear Cover
Neck: Nothing, Aventail/Lowered
Torso: Chainmail, Hauberk, Plate Lamellar Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle, Scarf (Workers/Wanderers), Lamellar Shoulders
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth, Short Chainmail Sleeve
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veteran’s Gloves
Waist: Chainmail Lower, Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Wanderers Pants
Feet: Footsoldier Boots, Fur Boots, Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Battle Axe – Berzerker Head, Narrow Beard Head – Long Shaft
Secondary: Arming Sword (Viking), Axe, Falchion (Sullen)
Tertiary: Round Shield, Shortsword (Seax)
Mid 9th Century
Bóndi were Scandinavian freemen making up the bulk of the middle class as farmers and craftsmen. They also fought as vikings who took with them a trusty spear and shield. Some had the added benefit of mail armour, while poorer vikings fought in little to no armour.
Armour:
Head: Nothing, Viking Helmet, Norman Casque
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Chainmail, Hauberk, Tunic
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle, Scarf (Workers/Wanderers)
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth, Short Chainmail Sleeve
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veteran’s Gloves
Waist: Chainmail Lower, Hauberk Lower, Tunic Dress
Legs: Baggy Pants, Wanderers Pants, Pants
Feet: Footsoldier Boots, Fur Boots, Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Short Spear, Javelin, Throwing Axe (Francisca)
Secondary: Arming Sword (Viking) – Any Blade, guard and handle, Axe, Shortsword (Seax), Falchion (Sullen)
Tertiary: Round Shield
Mid 8th Century
The best fighting men of the Frankish Empire, these horsemen were the crusaders of their day and helped to extend the Frankish Empire across Europe and would serve as an inspiration for the chivalrous knight centuries later.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard
Neck: Maille Hood Lowered, Padded Coif, Helmet Strap
Torso: Hauberk, Chainmail
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle, Scarf (Workers/Wanderers)
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth
Waist: Hauberk Lower, Chainmail Lower
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Footsoldier Boots, Chain Boots, Wanderers Pants
Gear:
Primary: Short Spear, Spear
Secondary: Arming Sword (Viking), Axe
Tertiary: Round Shield
Mid 9th Century
These freemen are levied up in times of war to serve their lord or king and have done so for centuries in battles against foreign invaders, or against fellow saxons.
Armour:
Head: Nothing, Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Tunic, Peasants Shirt
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle, Workers Scarf
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veteran’s Gloves
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants,
Feet: Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Short Spear, Throwing Axe (Francisca), Javelin
Secondary: Axe, Shortsword (Seax), Dagger
Tertiary: Round Shield
High Middle Ages (1000AD – 1300AD)
The High Middle Ages was a time of growth and the beginning of the 12th century Renaissance in Europe, with the foundations of major nations like England and France having being set in stone. Populations boomed quickly as agriculture and commerce grew stronger, such as with the Hanseatic League and merchant republics of Venice and Genoa. The Crusades against the Muslims saw to reclaim the ‘holy lands’ of Palestine, and while initially successful ultimately proved fruitless. However progress was made with the Reconquista following a decisive battle at Las Navas de Tolosa that now put the Moors at the mercy of the Iberian Christian kingdoms. This would also be the era that the Mongol Empire would encroach upon the Middle East and Christendom, and when Byzantium’s power was crippled with the Sack of Constantinople in 1204.
Mid 11th Century
Much alike to their viking counterparts, the Anglo-Saxons adopted housecarls as a part of their retinue. They were fierce warriors, famous for defeating the Norwegians at the Battle of Stamford Bridge, and fighting to the bitter end at Hastings in 1066.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard
Neck: Helmet Strap, Aventail lowered
Torso: Hauberk
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle, Scarf (Workers/Wanderers)
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth, Short Mail Sleeve over Cloth
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves
Waist: Hauberk Lower
Legs: Baggy Pants, Pants
Feet: Footsoldier Boots, Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Battle Axe – Berzerker Head, Narrow Beard Head – Long Shaft
Secondary: Arming Sword (Viking) – Any Blade, guard and handle
Tertiary: Kite Shield, Round Shield
Mid 12th – Late 13th Century
The Knight was a force to be reckoned with, having being trained from birth to not only fight, but also in the mannerisms with life at court. Of these esteemed warriors, several military orders arose out of a sense of zealotry and glory during the time of The Crusades. Most notably the Templars and the Hospitallers in the Holy Land, while the Teutonic and Livonian Orders operated in the Baltic.
Armour:
Head: Maille Hood Lowered, Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard, Kettle, Flat Top/Covered/Enclosed/Orle, Conic Facemask, Flat Templar, Greathelm/Reinforced/Band/Cloak
Neck: Coif, Helmet Strap, Aventail Tightened, Fur Coif (Teuton)
Torso: Tabard, Hauberk
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle, Scarf (Workers/Wanderers)
Arms: Short Mail Sleeve over Cloth, Chainmail Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Chainmail Mittens
Waist: Hauberk Lower, Chainmail Lower
Legs: Chainmail Hosen, Baggy Pants
Feet: Chain Boots, Townsmans Shoe
Gear:
Primary: Arming Sword, Bastard Sword
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix), Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Kite Shield, Heater Shield
Emblem/Colours for Military Orders:
Knights Templar: Templar Cross 2 (Red – White Background)
Knights Hospitaller: Templar Cross 3 (White – Black or Red Background)
Teutonic Order: Templar Cross 2 (Black – White Background)
Knights of the Holy Sepulchre: Templar Cross 1 (Red – White Background)
Order of St.Lazarus: Templar Cross 3 (Green- White Background)
Mid 11th Century
Norman is an old-Frankish word for the “north man” or “Norseman”, who settled in the north of France in the 10th century. Overtime they assimilated Carolingian and Christian ideas into their culture, and started speaking Norman-French. They’re well known for their invasion of England in 1066 under William the Conqueror, but their influence was far flung, from the shores of Ireland all the way to Palestine.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque
Neck: Aventail lowered
Torso: Hauberk
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth, Short Mail Sleeve over Cloth
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves
Waist: Chainmail Lower, Hauberk Lower
Legs: Baggy Pants
Feet: Footsoldier Boots, Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Arming Sword, If you find a branch on the ground you can RP Bishop Odo 🙂
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix)
Tertiary: Kite Shield
Early 12th Century
The Normans arrived in Southern Italy in the late 10th century as mercenaries for the Lombards and briefly the Byzantines who gave them land as a reward. What followed was decades of disjointed politics and battles throughout Southern Italy. Going to and fro against the Lombards, Byzantines, the Saracens in Sicily and North Africa, and even the Papacy. Which culminated in the total Norman conquest and the formation of the Kingdom of Sicily in 1130 and the Kingdom of Africa 1148 under Roger II.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque, Conic Facemask
Neck: Aventail/Lowered
Torso: Hauberk
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Chainmail Arms, Short Chainmail Sleeve over Cloth
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Mail Mittens
Waist: Hauberk Lower
Legs: Chainmail Hosen, Baggy Pants
Feet: Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Arming Sword, Bastard Sword
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix)
Tertiary: Kite Shield
Mid 12th – Late 13th Century
Crossbows had been in use since Roman times, but they surged in popularity in the Middle Ages garnering a reputation for being deadly in accuracy and power. The Catholic Church tried to ban the use of archery weapons, especially crossbows on fellow Christians but it wasn’t long before everyone went back to their old habits.
Armour:
Head: Aventail Lowered, Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard, Kettle, Eisenhut Flat Top
Neck: Coif, Arming Cap, Helmet Strap, Aventail Lowered
Torso: Gambeson, Chainmail, Tabard
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth, Chainmail Arms
Hands: None, Leather Gloves
Waist: Gambeson Skirt, Chainmail Lower, Tabard Skirt
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots, Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Crossbow
Secondary: Short Sword, Dagger (Crucifix) Arming Sword, Axe
Mid 12th Century
The use of archers in war declined in Western Europe for the most part. But there was a slow revival in the High Middle Ages. Though, the Welsh had mastered the art since the 7th Century and especially the Longbow which would later be adopted by the English.
Armour:
Head: Nothing, Hood, Peasant Cap
Neck: Nothing, Hood Lowered
Torso: Tunic, Peasant Shirt, Workers Vest
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots, Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Longbow
Secondary: Short Sword, Dagger (Crucifix) Arming Sword, Axe
High Middle Ages continued…
Early 12th – Late 13th Century
Drawn from middle-class freemen and peasants, these soldiers act as militia for towns and villages, while more professional soldiery march on campaigns with their lords. They along with archers, played a vital role in the crusades to help keep the mounted Saracens at bay.
Head: Aventail Lowered, Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard, Kettle, Eisenhut Flat Top/Covered
Neck: Arming Cap, Padded Hood, Hood Under Helmet, Hood Lowered, Coif, Helmet Strap, Aventail/Lowered
Torso: Gambeson, Chainmail, Hauberk, Tabard
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Gambeson Tight Sleeve/Long Sleeve, Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth, Chainmail Arms, Short Mail Sleeve Over Cloth
Hands: None, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves
Waist: Gambeson Skirt, Chainmail Lower, Tabard Skirt, Hauberk Lower
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots, Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Short Spear, Battle Axe, Spear, Billhook (Army Head), Bardiche
Secondary: Short Sword, Dagger (Crucifix) Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Kite Shield, Heater Shield
Mid 13th Century
Taking form in the 10th Century recruiting Rus, Norsemen and later Anglo-Saxons, the Varangian Guard is one of most acclaimed in the Byzantine Empire. Serving as the Emperor’s own guard, they also participated in battle where they played a crucial role.
Armour:
Head: German Kettle
Neck: Maille Hood
Torso: Plate Lamellar Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing, Lamellar Shoulders
Arms: Brigandine Arms, Vambrace Arms
Hands: None, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves
Waist: Chainmail Skirt, Lamellar Skirt
Legs: Pants, Wanderers Pants, Footmans Splinted Greaves
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Townsman Shoes
Gear:
Primary: Battle Axe
Secondary: Arming Sword, Falchion (Sullen)
Tertiary: Round Shield
Emblem: Chimera
Early 12th Century
Making up the bulk of the Byzantine Empire’s Infantry. The Skoutatoi, named after their “Skouton” shields fought in a tight formation of spears to lend aid to the cavalry.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque No Nasal Guard
Neck: Arming Cap
Torso: Plate Lamellar Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Brigandine Arms
Hands: None, Leather Gloves.
Waist: Crude Plate Skirt
Legs: Pants, Wanderers Pants, Footmans Splinted Greaves
Feet: Laced Boots, Footsoldiers Boots, Pointy Leather Boots
Gear:
Primary: Short Spear
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Falchion
Tertiary: Kite Shield
Early 12th Century
The standard light infantry of the Byzantine Empire. Most archers of the empire came from Asia Minor in the region of Trebizond where they are highly trained with the composite (recurve) bow.
Head: Norman Casque No Nasal Guard
Neck: Arming Cap
Torso: Gambeson
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Rolled Cloth, Long Sleeve Cloth.
Hands: None, Leather Gloves.
Waist: Gambeson Skirt.
Legs: Pants, Wanderers Pants
Feet: Laced Boots, Footsoldiers Boots, Pointy Leather Boots
Gear:
Primary: Recurve Bow
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe
Tertiary: Dagger
Mid 13th Century
Hailing from the land of the Rus. The Boyars exercised rule and authority as powerful aristocrats and worked closely with a prince managing affairs of state. They served also as the senior members of his retinue, the Druzhina.
Armour:
Head: Viking Helmet, Norman Casque No Nasal Guard
Neck: Aventail/Lowered
Torso: Plate Lamellar Cuirass, Chainmail
Shoulders: Nothing, Lamellar Shoulders, Short Mantle
Arms: Brigandine Arms, Vambrace Arms
Hands: None, Leather Gloves.
Waist: Lamellar Skirt, Chainmail Lower
Legs: Wanderers Pants, Footmans Splinted Greaves, Splinted Greaves
Feet: Pointy Leather Boots, Townsman Shoe, Footsoldier Boots, Travelers Boots
Gear:
Primary: Bardiche (Crescent Blade), Spear
Secondary: Arming Sword, Falchion, Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Kite shield, Heater Shield, Dagger
Mid 13th Century
Originating from the Kingdom of Aragon originally as farmers and shepherds. These highly acclaimed shock infantry have a reputation for raiding the borders of
Al-Andalus and later serving as mercenaries. Wearing little to no armour, they harass their enemies with javelins and carry a trusty knife at their side.
Armour:
Head: Nothing, Peasant Cap, Norman Casque No Nasal Guard
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Tunic, Workers Vest, Wanderers Vest
Shoulders: Nothing.
Arms: Nothing, Long Sleeve Cloth, Rolled Cloth
Hands: None
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Pants, Workers Shorts, Wonderers Shorts, Baggy Pants
Feet: Nothing, Pointy Leather Boots, Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Javelin
Secondary: Short Spear
Tertiary: Cleaver
Late Middle Ages (1300AD – 1500AD)
The Late Middle Ages saw a rapid period of change, and upheaval. Crises such as the Hundred Years War, the Western Schism and the Black Death rocked Europe to it’s core, feudalism was strained with the lack of manpower to work the fields following the plague, which led to peasant revolts in France and England demanding the end of serfdom and a reduction of taxes. In the Kingdom of Bohemia, the Hussite uprising occurred demanding for more sociopolitical freedom and religious reform that would begin the trend for more religious wars in Europe for the next two centuries. As the Ottoman Empire swiftly conquered the Balkans, Byzantine scholars fled west to Italy, which would set the stage for the Italian Renaissance and the Age of the Discovery.
Early 14th Century
English Knights were a presence to be feared on the battlefield so the Scots developed a means to counter them with pikemen to keep them at bay. While helpless to missiles, the Scots were able use them to great effect at Stirling Bridge and Bannockburn.
Armour:
Head: Aventail Lowered, Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard, Kettle, Eisenhut
Neck: Coif, Helmet Strap, Aventail Lowered
Torso: Gambeson, Chainmail, Tabard, Hauberk
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulder Round
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Chainmail Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Chainmail Mittens
Waist: Gambeson Skirt, Chainmail Lower, Tabard Skirt
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Chainmail Hosen, Padden Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Spear, Bardiche, Battle Axe
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Dagger (Crucifix), Heater Shield, Buckler, Targe
Early 14th Century
Made famous by their defiant stand at the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302. The Flemish Militia were well trained as they were well equipped. What made them stand out besides their keen discipline, was their Goedendags. A combination of a club with a spear, with it’s chief function being to bring a knight down from his horse. “The iron as one meets a wild boar”
Armour:
Head: Unvisored Klappvisier, Norman Casque/No Nasal Guard, Kettle, Eisenhut
Neck: Coif, Hood, Helmet Strap, Aventail Lowered
Torso: Gambeson, Chainmail, Tabard
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round
Arms: Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Chainmail Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Chainmail Mittens
Waist: Gambeson Skirt, Chainmail Lower, Tabard Skirt
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants
Feet: Pointy Leather Boots, Chain Boots
Gear:
Primary: Eveningstar (Goedendag), Spear, Bardiche, Crossbow
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Dagger (Crucifix), Heater Shield, Buckler
Early 14th Century-Late 14th Century
In an age of rapid armour development, the 14th century saw a transitional period towards plate armour with partial plate and mail armour. Knights began to wear breastplates and steel plates on their limbs, and visored helmets such as the hounskull to deflect arrows.
Armour: Early 14th Century
Head: Greathelm (any variant), Unvisored Klappvisier, Barbute Visor
Neck: Aventail Lowered/Tightened
Torso: Tabard, Knightly Coat of Plates
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round, Basic Shoulders Square
Arms: Chainmail Arms, Chainmail Arms Padded
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Chainmail Mittens
Waist: Tabard Skirt, Straight Cut, Triangle Cut
Legs: Chainmail Hosen, Padden Chainmail Hosen, Brigandine Greaves
Feet: Pointy Leather Boots, Townsmans Shoe
Armour: Mid-Late 14th Century
Head: Klappvisier/Univisored/Italian, Hounskull/no Visor, Bretache Nasal Guard, Pig Faced Bascinet, Flat Faced Bascinet
Neck: Aventail Lowered/Tightened
Torso: Knightly Coat of Plates, Brigandine, Draped Cuirass, Padded Cuirass, Veteran Cuirass, Breastplate over Joupon, Corazzina
Shoulders: Nothing, Knight Pauldrons 1×1
Arms: Footsoldier Arms, Veteran Arms no Cuffs, Short Mail Sleeve Over Plate, Italian Arms
Hands: Hourglass Gauntlets, Wisby Gauntlets
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt/Straight Cut/Triangle Cut
Legs: Brigandine Greaves, Footsoldier Greaves, Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Pointy Leather Boots, Townsmans Shoe, Veterans Sabatons, Scale Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Longsword, Bastard Sword, Maul, Poleaxe, Pole-Hammer, Messer
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace, Dagger
Tertiary: Heater Shield, Buckler
Mid 14th Century
Made famous by many battles such as Crecy, Poitiers and Agincourt, Longbowmen were the driving force of the English armies in France and the British Isles. Being highly skilled with their longbow, they can also fend well for themselves in melee.
Armour:
Head: Aventail Lowered, Kettle, Hood, Eisenhut, Unvisored Klappvisier, Hounskull No Visor
Neck: Arming Cap, Aventail Lowered, Helmet Strap, Hood/Lowered/Under Helmet/Fringed Lowered
Torso: Gambeson/Checkered, Chainmail, Brigandine, Cloth Vest
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Chainmail Arms, Archer’s Bracer
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves
Waist: Gambeson Skirt, Chainmail Lower
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Linen Hosen
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Footsoldier Boots, Chain Boots, Pointy Leather Shoes
Gear:
Primary: Longbow
Secondary: Arming Sword, Shortsword, Axe, Wooden Mallet, Cleaver
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler
14th Century
As early as the late 13th century, infantry were beginning to make more of a presence in warfare in retinues and mercenary companies with improved weapons and armour. Infantry were able to be fielded in larger numbers while being cheaper than fielding knights. At the same time, new tactics were developed to counter said knights as more emphasis was placed in the use of pole-arms.
Armour:
Head: Eisenhut, Kettle/German Raised, Unvisored Klappvisier, Hounskull No Visor, Bretache Nasal Guard
Neck: Arming Cap, Padded Coif, Maille Hood Lowered, Helmet Strap, Hood Lowered, Aventail Lowered
Torso: Gambeson/Checkered, Doublet Padded, Chainmail, Brigandine, Corazzina, Padded Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round
Arms: Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Chainmail Arms, Chainmail Arms Padded, Splinted Arms, Jack Chains, Joupon Arms, Veteran’s Cuffs plain
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Hourglass Gauntlets, Wisby Gauntlets
Waist: Nothing, Gambeson Skirt/Checkered, Chainmail Lowered, Short Chainmail Skirt, Mail over Gambeson skirt
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Padded Chainmail Hosen, Greaves, Splinted Greaves, Brigandine Greaves, Footsoldier Leggings, Elizabethan Greaves
Feet: Pointy Leather Shoes, Chain Boots, Laced Boots, Footsoldier Boots, Townsmans Shoe, Folded Boots, Scale Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Spear, Bardiche, Battle-Axe, Billhook
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace, Falchion, Heavy Handaxe
Tertiary: Dagger, Heater Shield, Buckler
Late Middle Ages continued…
Mid-Late 15th Century
Worn by knights and men-at-arms alike. Full suits of plate armour were developed by 1420. Two distinct styles emerged in this era and were diffused across Europe. The plainer Italian “white” armour, and the decorative German “gothic” armour. Both functioned just the same, and the wearer was near impervious to most edged weapons, including arrows.
Armour: Italian
Head: Barbute, Heavy Barbute, Italian Armet/Wrapper/Alt, Sallet Bevor
Neck: Gorget
Torso: Italian Cuirass
Shoulders: Knight Pauldrons 2×2/2×3, Italian Pauldrons 1×1/1×2/2×2
Arms: Footsoldiers Arms, Italian Arms/Reinforced Couter, Short Mail Sleeve Over Plate
Hands: Italian Gauntlets 1×1/1×2/2×2
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt, Mail over Gambeson Skirt/Triangular,
Legs: Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Veteran Sabatons
Armour: German (My personal favourite)
Head: German Sallet
Neck: Coif
Torso: Fluted Cuirass
Shoulders: Gothic Pauldrons
Arms: Gothic Arms
Hands: Fluted Segmented Gauntlets
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Gothic Leggings, Fluted Legs
Feet: Gothic Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Longsword, Maul, Messer, Bastard Sword, Pole-Axe, Pole-Hammer
Secondary: Arming Sword, Mace, Warhammer, Axe, Heavy Handaxe,
Tertiary: Dagger, Heater Shield (Jousting Shield), Buckler
15th Century
Offering out their services to anyone who can afford them be it at land or sea. These mercenaries trace their origins to the crusades, and became highly respected for their deadly skills with a crossbow before their decline in the 16th century.
Armour:
Head: Archers Cap/Feather, Eisenhut, Barbute, Sallet Raised Visor, Vanguard’s Kettle, Archer’s Sallet, German Kettle
Neck: Nothing, Arming Cap, Maille Hood Lowered, Helmet Strap
Torso: Doublet Padded, Brigandine, Corazzina, Padded Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round
Arms: Footsoldiers Arms, Italian Arms, Jack Chains
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt, Mail over Gambeson Skirt,
Legs: Pants, Linen Hosen
Feet: Pointy Leather Shoes, Chain Boots, Townsmans Shoe
Gear:
Primary: Crossbow
Secondary: Arming Sword, Shortsword, Warhammer
Tertiary: Pavise
Early-Mid 15th Century
The Hussites were the followers of Jan Hus, a preacher who called for reform in the split Catholic Church. With their Wagenburg (Wagon Fort) tactics, they were able to withstand five crusades directed at them in what would be called the Hussite Wars.
Armour:
Head: Eisenhut, Hood, Sallet/Black, Kettle/German/Vanguards
Neck: Nothing, Arming Cap, Maille Hood Lowered, Helmet Strap, Hood Lowered, Fringe Hood Lowered
Torso: Gambeson/Checkered, Chainmail, Padded Cuirass, Veteran Cuirass, Kasten Brust Chest
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Chainmail Arms, Veteran Cuffs
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves, Hourglass Gauntlets, Italian Gauntlets 1×1
Waist: Nothing, Gambeson Skirt/Checkered, Chainmail Lowered, (Kasten Brust – Faulds, Maille Over Cloth Skirt)
Legs: Pants, Baggy Pants, Linen Hosen, Footsoldier Leggings
Feet: Pointy Leather Shoes, Chain Boots, Laced Boots, Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Crossbow, Eveningstar (Abendstern), Halberd, Poleaxe, Bardiche
Secondary: Arming Sword, Bastard Sword, Axe, Mace, Heavy Handaxe
Tertiary: Pavise, Targe (Hand-Pavise), Wooden Mallet, Blacksmith Hammer
Mid-Late 15th Century
The Italian city states were more often than not in a state of war, with one of the main driving conflicts being a part of the Investiture Controversy between the Pope and the Holy Roman Emperor. These wars were often fought by mercenaries, who served either directly on campaign or to protect the outposts and trade of powerful trade republics like Venice and Florence.
Armour:
Head: Sallet, Black Sallet, Kettle/German/Vanguard, Barbute, Vanguard’s Kettle
Neck: Nothing, Arming Cap, Maille Hood Lowered, Helmet Strap, Heavy Bevor, Gorget, Footsoldier Gorget
Torso: Chainmail, Italian Cuirass, Brigandine, Draped Cuirass, Burgundian Cuirass Covered
Shoulders: Nothing, Footmans Pauldrons, Segmented Pauldrons, Knight Pauldrons 2×2,
Arms: Footsoldier Arms, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Jupon Arms, Italian Arms, Jack Chains
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves, Hourglass Gauntlets, Gothic Gauntlets, Italian Gauntlets 1×1, Basic Segmented Gauntlets
Waist: Nothing, Short Gambeson, Short Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Pants, Linen Hosen, Greaves, Poleyns, Cuisses, Footsoldier Leggings, Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Pointy Leather Shoes, Chain Boots, Laced Boots, Footsoldier Boots, Folded Boots
Gear:
Primary: Maul, Billhook, Pole-Axe, Pole-Hammer
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Heavy Hand Axe, Mace, Falchion, Warhammer
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler, Heater Shield
Mid-Late 15th Century
With their mastery of the pike, the Swiss carved out a series of decisive victories across Europe over the course of the 14th and 15th centuries, their most famous battles being during the Burgundian Wars where they humiliated one of the most powerful rulers in Europe at the time, Charles the Bold.
Armour:
Head: Sallet, German Kettle/Vanguard, Landsknecht Hat/Feather, Eisenhut, Archers Cap/Feather, Chaperon Hat
Neck: Nothing, Arming Cap, Maille Hood Lowered, Helmet Strap, Hood Lowered, Heavy Bevor, Gorget, Footsoldier Gorget
Torso: Doublet Padded, Italian Cuirass, Gothic Cuirass, Brigandine, Burgundian Cuirass/Covered
Shoulders: Nothing, Footsoldier Pauldrons, Segmented Pauldrons, Knight Pauldrons 2×2, Italian Gauntlets 1×1/1×2/2×2, Gothic Pauldrons
Arms: Footsoldier Arms, Long Sleeve Cloth, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Gothic Arms, Italian Arms, Jack Chains
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Hourglass Gauntlets, Gothic Gauntlets, Italian 1×1, Basic Segmented Gauntlets
Waist: Nothing, Short Gambeson, Short Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Pants, Linen Hosen, Poleyns, Greaves, Joined Hosen
Feet: Pointy Leather Shoes, Chain Boots, Laced Boots, Footsoldier Boots, Folded Boots
Gear:
Primary: Spear, Halberd, Bardiche, Pole Axe, Pole-Hammer
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler
Late Middle Ages continued…
14th Century
Men-at-arms is a blanket term applied to heavily armoured soldiery of the middle ages, usually serving as heavy cavalry or infantry, and often knight and man-at-arms were used interchangeably, albeit men-at-arms were lower in status to that of knights who could afford the responsibility and expenses that came with the title. Men-at-arms were drawn of the middle class fighting as a part of a retinue, even as part of a knight’s. Just like knights, men-at-arms fought in heavy armour and were well trained with a variety of weaponry, the art of horsemanship, and could even play roles as commanders of lesser troops.
Armour:
Head: Klappvisier/Unvisored/Italian, Hounskull/No Visor, Eisenhut, Bascinet/Flat Faced/Pig Faced, Bretache Nasal Guard, German Kettle Raised/Vanguard
Neck: Aventail Lowered/Spiked
Torso: Brigandine, Corizzana, Padded Cuirass, Draped Cuirass, Knights Draped Cuirass, Veteran Cuirass, Knightly Coat of Plates, Breastplate over Jupon
Shoulders: Nothing, Basic Shoulders Round, Knight Pauldrons 1×1
Arms: Splinted Arms, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Footsoldier Arms, Veteran Cuffs Plain, Joupon Arms
Hands: Leather Gloves, Wisby Gauntlets, Hourglass Gauntlets
Waist: Chainmail Skirt, Short Chainmail Skirt,
Legs: Brigandine Greaves, Splinted Greaves, Footsoldier Leggings, Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Townsmans Shoe, Veteran Sabatons, Scale Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Pole Axe, Bardiche, Maul, Battle Axe, Longsword, Heavy Handaxe, Pole-Hammer
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace, Bastard Sword,
Tertiary: Dagger, Heater Shield, Buckler
15th Century
In a new age, the men-at-arms of the 15th century were now far more heavily armoured, numerous and imposing as the number of knights began to dwindle. Men-at-arms would later evolve into the demi-lancer and gendarme.
Armour:
Head: Sallet/Black, German Kettle/Vanguards, Barbute/Heavy, Sallet Bevor, Italian Armet
Neck: Nothing, Heavy Bevor, Footsoldier Gorget, Veteran Gorget.
Torso: Brigandine, Draped Cuirass, Knights Draped Cuirass, Italian Cuirass, Burgundian Cuirass/Covered
Shoulders: Nothing, Knight Pauldrons 2×2/2×3, Velvet Pauldrons, Italian Pauldrons 1×1/1×2/2×2
Arms: Footsoldier Arms, Short Mail Sleeve over Plate, Italian Arms
Hands: Leather Gloves, Veterans Gloves, Italian Gauntlets 1×1/1×2/2×2,
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt, Short Gambeson, Mail over Gambeson Skirt/Triangular
Legs: Linen Hosen, Footsoldier Leggings, Elizabethan Leggings,
Feet: Laced Boots, Pointy Leather Boots, Townsmans Shoe, Veteran Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Pole Axe, Billhook, Bardiche, Maul, Battle Axe, Longsword, Pole-Hammer
Secondary: Arming Sword, Warhammer
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler
Mid-Late 15th Century
Originally starting off as a farm tool, the bill evolved into a versatile pole arm that soared in popularity in England and Italy. The bill’s curved head allowed for not only a powerful cut, but to catch gaps in plate armour that could be used to drag a horseman off his mount. It is also equipped with a pronounced spike for stabbing and another armour piercing spike on it’s rear which could likewise be used to block and snag other weapons.
Armour:
Head: Sallet/Black, German Kettle/Vanguard, Eisenhut
Neck: Nothing, Arming Cap, Maille Hood Lowered, Helmet Strap, Heavy Bevor, Gorget, Footsoldier Gorget
Torso: Doublet Padded, Italian Cuirass, Brigandine, Draped Cuirass, Burgundian Cuirass/Covered
Shoulders: Nothing, Footsoldier Pauldrons, Segmented Pauldrons
Arms: Footsoldier Arms, Gambeson Tight Sleeve, Joupon Arms, Jack Chains, Short Mail Sleeve over Plate
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Hourglass Gauntlets, Gothic Gauntlets, Basic Segmented Gauntlets, Italian Gauntlets 1×1,
Waist: Nothing, Short Gambeson, Short Chainmail Skirt, Mail over Gambeson
Legs: Pants, Linen Hosen, Footsoldier Leggings, Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Pointy Leather Shoes, Chain Boots, Laced Boots, Footsoldier Boots, Folded Boots
Gear:
Primary: Billhook
Secondary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler
The Renaissance (1500AD – 1600AD)
The days of the knight were coming to an end, favouring new advancements in gunpowder weapons and battle tactics, as well as economic and social shifts. The Renaissance gave birth to the modern world, a revolutionary age of science, art, discovery and enlightenment. The Age of Discovery broadened Europe’s scope of the world with sights set on new opportunities and adventure. But even with all these advances, there was still much turmoil. Conflicts such as the Italian Wars and the terrible struggle against the encroaching Ottoman Empire would last for decades, and the whole continent of Europe would be fractured by the reformation. When they weren’t fighting each other, Europeans would take their swords to the new world rife for conquest.
Early 16th Century
Armour in the late 15th and early 16th centuries had reached the zenith of defence as well as aesthetic. Thick steel near impervious to most strikes, and even to some extent a gun shot. But the old knightly ways were fast becoming archaic, in favour of professional soldiers and gunpowder weapons. Even so, the knight lived on in form of the holy orders, such as the Knights Hospitaller and the Teutonic Order, and even today the spirit of chivalry carries on as we emulate them on the tourney field and write and listen about them in timeless stories, historical and fantasy.
Armour: Gendarme
Head: Close Helm, Regular Armet/Plume
Neck: Gorget
Torso: Elizabethan Cuirass,
Shoulders: Knight Pauldrons 3×3
Arms: Footsoldier Arms
Hands: Fanned Segmented Gauntlets
Waist: Leather Skirt
Legs: Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Veterans Sabatons
Armour: Maximilian
Head: Point Armet
Neck: Gorget
Torso: Maximilian Cuirass
Shoulders: Fluted Knight Pauldrons 2×2
Arms: Gothic Arms
Hands: Fanned Segmented Gauntlets
Waist: Workers Skirt
Legs: Veterans Cuisses
Feet: Veterans Sabatons, Gothic Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Longsword, Estoc
Secondary: Rapier, Warhammer
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler
Early 16th Century
The Doppelsöldner were Landsknecht mercenaries volunteering to fight on the front line for double the pay. Usually issued with a crossbow or arquebus, some also carried their famous Zweihänders that they used to cut into pike formations, especially those of the Swiss.
Armour: Crossbowman
Head: Landsknecht Hat, Landsknecht Hat feather
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Landsknecht Vest
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Landsknecht Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Landsknecht Pants
Feet: Landsknecht Sandals, Townsmans Shoes
Armour: Swordsman
Head: Landsknecht Hat/feather, Burgonet/no Buffet
Neck: Nothing, Gorget
Torso: Landsknecht Vest, Elizabethan Cuirass, Footsoldier Cuirass, Maximillian Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Landsknecht Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Landsknecht Pants
Feet: Landsknecht Sandals, Townsmans Shoes
Gear:
Primary: Crossbow, Zweihänder, Halberd
Secondary: Rapier, Estoc, Messer, Warhammer
Tertiary: Dagger, Buckler
Early-Mid 16th Century
Hardy and brutal pioneers of the Spanish and Portuguese Empires. The conquistadors sailed out from their homelands conquering large swathes of territory, establishing new colonies and trade routes.
Armour:
Head: Spanish Kettle, Burgonet/No Buffet, Gothic Armet/Raised, Vanguard’s Kettle, Regular Armet/Raised, Veteran’s Helm/Plume,
Neck: Nothing, Gorget, Footsoldier Gorget
Torso: Elizabethan Cuirass, Footsoldier Cuirass, Maximillian Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing, Knight Pauldrons 2×3, Knight Pauldrons 3×3
Arms: Landsknecht Arms, Footsoldier Arms, Italian Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Long Sleeve Leather Gloves
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Landsknecht Pants, Rider’s Hosen, Cuisses, Footsoldier Leggings, Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Landsknecht Sandals, Townsmans Shoes, Laced Boots, Folded Boots
Gear:
Primary: Crossbow
Secondary: Rapier, Estoc, Warhammer
Tertiary: Dagger, Targe, Buckler
Early-Late 16th Century
The powerful infantry of the Spanish Empire. The Tercio were made up of a force of pikemen, swordsmen and musketeers fighting in a square formation called the “Spanish Square”. Up to the mid 17th Century, they were the best fighting men in Europe.
Armour:
Head: Spanish Kettle, Burgonet No Buffet
Neck: Nothing, Gorget
Torso: Elizabethan Cuirass, Footsoldier Cuirass, Doublet Leather
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth, Landsknecht Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves
Waist: Nothing, Short Gambeson, Workers Skirt
Legs: Wanderers Pants, Rider’s Hosen
Feet: Laced Boots, Folded Boots
Gear:
Primary: Spear, Crossbow
Secondary: Rapier
Tertiary: Dagger, Targe, Buckler
Renaissance continued…
16th Century
The Swiss Guards was composed of mercenaries who served as guards throughout the courts of Europe since the late 15th century, most notably as part of the Holy See which still guards it today. They played a vital role in the frontlines of the Italian Wars. They are most known for their brave last stand during the sack of Rome in 1527 by the Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V.
Armour: Light Variant
Head: Spanish Kettle
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Gambeson
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Landsknecht Arms
Hands: Nothing
Waist: Gambeson Skirt
Legs: Landsknecht Pants
Feet: Landsknecht Sandals
Armour: Heavy Variant
Head: Spanish Kettle
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Footsoldier Cuirass, Elizabethan Cuirass
Shoulders: Knight Pauldrons 2×2
Arms: Landsknecht Arms
Hands: Nothing
Waist: Gambeson Skirt No Belt
Legs: Landsknecht Pants
Feet: Landsknecht Sandals
Gear:
Primary: Zweihander
Secondary: Dagger, Short Sword
Tertiary: Nothing
16th Century
In Irish the Gallóglaigh “foreign young warriors” were Gaelic mercenary clansmen who settled in Ireland with their services paid in kind with land and supplies from the local populace. They’re notable for wielding a great two-handed axe called a sparth axe and a claymore.
Armour:
Head: Spanish Kettle, Burgonet No Buffet, Heavy Barbute
Neck: Nothing, Coif
Torso: Chainmail
Shoulders: Nothing, Short Mantle.
Arms: Nothing, Long Sleeve Cloth
Hands: Nothing
Waist: Chainmail Lower
Legs: Workers Shorts, Baggy Pants
Feet: Nothing, Pointy Leather Shoes, Landsknecht Sandals
Gear:
Primary: Battle Axe (Gallowglass), Greatsword
Secondary: Arming Sword
Tertiary: Dagger, Targe
16th Century
Light Cavalry taking root from Serbs who migrated to Southern Hungary by the end of the 14th century, following the conquest of Serbia. They fought in regiments of the Black Army of Hungary battling against their Ottoman rivals using shock tactics that put even the hardy Sipahis to flight. Their style was then adopted by the Poles who by the latter half of the 16th century were more heavily armoured, fought with long lances and sabres.
Armour:
Head: Hussar Helmet, Veteran Helmet/Plume
Neck: Gorget
Torso: Hussar Cuirass
Shoulders: Knight Pauldrons 2×2
Arms: Brigandine Arms
Hands: Nothing
Waist: Workers Skirt
Legs: Baggy Pants
Feet: Travelers Boots
Gear:
Primary: Messer, Estoc
Secondary: Warhammer, Axe
Tertiary: Dagger
Mid 16th Century
Developing from the demi-lancer, the cuirassier rode into battle in heavily clad plate armour, thick enough to potentially deflect gunfire. The cuirassiers used the caracole tactic, which entailed riding up to an enemy line with pistols in hand and shooting near point blank before retreating. Ultimately this proved ineffective against infantry in superior number and weapons. They were most effective instead at driving home the charge, shooting an infantry formation and switching to their swords for melee.
Armour:
Head: Burgonet/No Buffet, Savoyard/Barred/Smiling, Regular Armet/Plumed
Neck: Gorget
Torso: Elizabethan Cuirass
Shoulders: Knight Pauldrons 2×2
Arms: Chainmail Arms, Footsoldier Arms, Cuirassier Arms
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves, Fanned Segmented Gauntlets, Cuirassier Gauntlets
Waist: Nothing
Legs: Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Travelers Boots, Folded Boots
Gear:
Primary: Crossbow (place holder of a pistol) 😛
Secondary: Warhammer, Rapier
Historical Figures
c.970-1020
Leif Erikson was a Norse explorer who was the first European to set foot in America, five centuries before Columbus. According to the Saga of Icelanders he established a settlement in Vinland on the northern tip of Newfoundland in modern day Canada. However, due to the inhospitable conditions, and hostilities with the natives, the Norse later departed from America.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque No Nasal Guard
Neck: Nothing
Torso: Chainmail, Tunic
Shoulders: Short Mantle
Arms: Nothing
Hands: Nothing
Waist: Chainmail Lower, Tunic Dress
Legs: Baggy Pants
Feet: Chain Boots, Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Battle Axe
Secondary: Arming Sword (Viking)
Tertiary: Nothing, Round Shield
c.1028-1087
William the Conqueror or William the Bastard, was Duke of Normandy from 1035, and the first Norman king of England from 1066. Life as a bastard son made William’s childhood and early reign in Normandy turbulent. But from much rebellion he would emerge a powerful ruler, and assert Norman rule on England through a violent and bloody conquest.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque
Neck: Aventail Lowered
Torso: Hauberk
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Long Sleeve Cloth
Hands: Nothing
Waist: Hauberk Lower
Legs: Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Townsmans Shoe
Gear:
Primary: Short Spear (For horseback)
Secondary: Arming Sword
Tertiary: Kite Shield
c.1146-1219
As a young minor noble William had little to his name, but when he came of age he did rounds in tournaments where he was renowned for been undefeated. He rose up as a statesmen, serving as marshal and then protector of England and through marriage ties he gained great estates. In doing so, he became one of the wealthiest men in the kingdom. Upon his death, he was eulogized as “the best knight that ever lived”.
Armour:
Head: Maille hood lowered, Norman Casque
Neck: Aventail Lowered
Torso: Tabard
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Chainmail Arrms
Hands: Chainmail Mittens
Waist: Tabard Skirt
Legs: Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Townsmans Shoe
Gear:
Primary: Arming Sword
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix)
Tertiary: Kite Shield, Heater Shield
1157-1199
Richard I was King of England and a central leader of the third crusade. Within the same year he was crowned king, Richard would venture on crusade to take Jerusalem, during which he won considerable victories, most famously at Arsuf against the cunning Saladin but would not take Jerusalem. For the remainder of his life he would spend captive to Henry VI, Holy Roman Emperor, and defending his lands in France before finally succumbing to a gangrenous arrow wound. His military prowess and skill in battle earned him the name “the Lionheart”.
Armour:
Head: Maille hood lowered, Norman Casque, Flat Top
Neck: Aventail Lowered
Torso: Tabard
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Chainmail Arms
Hands: Chainmail Mittens
Waist: Tabard Skirt
Legs: Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Townsmans Shoe
Gear:
Primary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix)
Tertiary: Kite Shield, Heater Shield
1221-1263
Alexander Nevsky was the Prince of Novgorod and Grand Prince of Kiev and Vladimir. He is acclaimed as a Russian hero and a saint of the Eastern Orthodox Church, winning decisive victories over the invading Swedes and Germans. His most famous victory came at the Battle of the Ice on Lake Peipus in 1242, where he defeated an elite crusader force, halting the eastward expansion of the Teutonic order.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque no Nasal Guard
Neck: Aventail Lowered
Torso: Lamellar Cuirass
Shoulders: Short Mantle
Arms: Brigandine Arms
Hands: Leather Gloves
Waist: Lamellar Skirt
Legs: Wanderers Pants
Feet: Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Arming Sword, Axe, Mace
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix)
Tertiary: Kite Shield
c.1270-1305
William Wallace was a Scottish knight and leader of a rebellion against English dominion over Scotland. In his early years it’s thought that Wallace did have some experience fighting as a mercenary for Edward I in his campaigns in Wales. Eventually however he would become his adversary and would go on to win a decisive victory at Stirling Bridge in 1297, but was defeated by the King’s army at Falkirk just a year later. Following his execution, Robert the Bruce would continue the fight against the English.
Armour:
Head: Norman Casque no Nasal Guard
Neck: Aventail Lowered
Torso: Tabard
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Chainmail Arms
Hands: Mail Mittens
Waist: Tabard Skirt
Legs: Padded Chainmail Hosen
Feet: Townsmans Shoe
Gear:
Primary: Bastard Sword, Mace, Axe
Secondary: Dagger (Crucifix)
Tertiary: Heater Shield
Historical Figures continued…
c.1350-1409
Fiore Dei Liberi was a knight, diplomat and master of arms born in Italy in the mid 14th century. He is one of the earliest fencing masters with which his manuals survive, lending great insight in to how medieval people fought.
Armour:
Head: Chaperone
Neck: Cloth Coif Lowered
Torso: Gambeson, Doublet Padded
Shoulders: Short Mantle
Arms: Gambeson Tight Sleeve
Hands: Nothing, Leather Gloves
Waist: Gambeson Skirt
Legs: Linen Hosen, Wanderers Pants
Feet: Footsoldier Boots
Gear:
Primary: Longsword, Estoc
Secondary: Dagger
1330-1376
Edward of Woodstock, known famously as Edward the Black Prince was the eldest son of King Edward III. He is notable for having led and fought in decisive victories of the early Hundred Years War, namely at Crécy and Poitiers, the latter of which he took the French King prisoner. His also participated in campaigns during the War of the Two Peters in support of Peter of Castile before returning home to England and dying of dysentery in 1376.
Armour:
Head: Greathelm, Hounskull No Visor
Neck: Aventail Lowererd
Torso: Knights Draped Cuirass
Shoulders: Knight Pauldrons 1×1
Arms: Footsoldier Cuirass
Hands: Hourglass Gauntlets
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Elizabethan Leggings
Feet: Veterans Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Longsword, Bastard Sword
Secondary: Heavy Handaxe, Axe
Tertiary: Heater Shield
c.1373-1389
Prince Lazar of Serbia, has come to be a venerated saint and a martyr in the Orthodox Christian Church. Lazar started as a minor noble only to carve out the most powerful state from the tattered Serbian Empire known as Moravion Serbia in a bold attempt to rebuild the Empire and place himself at the helm. In 1389, Lazar led his outnumbered army against the encroaching Ottomans that culminated in a brutal clash at Kosovo where both the Turks and Serbs took heavy losses, both the Ottoman Sultan Murad I and Lazar were killed, the latter of whom was captured and executed, and thus Lazar and his soldiers martyred.
Armour:
Head: Hounskull
Neck: Aventail
Torso: Padded Cuirass
Shoulders: Nothing
Arms: Footsoldier Cuirass
Hands: Hourglass Gauntlets
Waist: Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Brigandine Greaves
Feet: Veteran Sabatons
Gear:
Primary: Mace
Secondary: Dagger
Tertiary: Heater Shield
c.1360-1424
Jan Žižka was a follower of Jan Hus and general of the Hussites and later the more radical Taborites. Jan was born into an aristocratic family in the village of Trocnov in the Kingdom of Bohemia. He rose to prominence for his innovative and unorthodox battle tactics using mobile fortifications crewed by crossbowmen, handgunners, pike and flailmen, who held their ground before going on the counter-attack. With these tactics Jan won many battles, and thwart two crusades directed at him.
Armour:
Head: Eisenhut
Neck: Eye Bandage
Torso: Padded Cuirass
Shoulders: None
Arms: Footsoldier Cuirass
Hands: Hourglass Gauntlets
Waist: Short Chainmail Skirt
Legs: Footsoldier Leggings
Feet: Laced Boots
Gear:
Primary: Mace
Secondary: Dagger