Frequently Answered Questions

Q: What is chainmail?

A: Chainmail, otherwise known as maille or mail, is a form of armour made up of several links of metal woven together in various patterns. It has been around for centuries. Medieval knights wore it as protection against swords and other sharp objects. Ancient Sumurai used it as connecting material for the plates of their armour. In the modern age, daring scuba divers go diving in maille shark suits and oyster shuckers wear maille gloves to keep their hands safe.

Q: So, which is right? Is it chainmail, chainmaille, mail, or maille?

A: The answer is all of the above. Since all maille is made up of chains, the 'chain' in 'chainmaille' is actually redundant. However, in this modern age, including the word 'chain' helps differentiate between the maille you wear and the mail you read. Through common usage, it has become correct. As to whether the word should end in 'lle' or just 'l', that too is a matter of opinion. The 'lle' is more period, but not using the extra 'le' is fine also. For consistency's sake, we have opted to use 'maille' throughout most of these pages.

Q: How did you learn how to make all this stuff?

A: There is an amazing wealth of information on maille weaving on the Internet. One of the best sites is www.mailleartisans.org . They have over 500 different weaves listed, along with many photos and tutorials. They also have an active web forum with knowledgeable people who can help you with maille questions.

Q: Do you participate in Renaissance Faires?

A: Yes, we do. Check out our "What's New?" page to see where we'll be heading next.

Q: Can the canine armour actually prevent bites?

A: Yes, the armour that Sir Nicholas wears is actually bite proof. However, any areas that aren't covered by the armour are still vulnerable. This means that he could still get his head bitten off, although his torso should be fine.

Also, bite proof doesn't mean crush proof. European maille was meant to stop blades from penetrating into the skin. Medieval doctors did not have our modern knowledge of how to sterilize open wounds, so these were often fatal. However, while they couldn't treat open wounds, medieval doctors were quite good at setting broken bones. Sir Nicholas' armour, like any knight's maille, will prevent puncture wounds, but won't stop a crushing blow.

Q: Where does the Mystery Link go to?

A: It's different for every page you're on. Guess you'll just have to click on it to find out. *^_^*

Send mail to [email protected] with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2006 The Armoured Hound
Last modified: January ,(, /),(