Handmade Splint Combat Bracers

Medieval stainless steel vambraces

Splinted bracers of commonly believed Slavic origin have made their intricate way through the medieval history, reappearing in different parts of Europe within dozen of centuries. Recreated by ArmStreet especially for medieval cut-and-thrust ten years ago, these heavy-duty splints developed a reputation as a fan favorite among SCA people. Their design is perfect for modern medieval style fighting because of great balance between weight, protection, and hand/wrist flexibility.

The iron splints from the Vendel grave still are the one and only historically accurate example of Viking vambraces. Considering abundance and geographic diversity of pictorial sources and archaeological finds, dating from the 9th century BC and up to 14th-century transitional armour, splinted limbs protection can be used to complete a Varangian, Rus, Byzantine, and even High Medieval harness.

Feature longitudinal stainless splints, flat till the edge, riveted with cast brass rivets right next to each other onto the genuine leather base, with contrasting split leather lining underneath the entire thing. Their shape is tapered to the elbow to cover the joint. Fixation system includes leather buckled straps on the inner side of the forearm. Being lighter than chain mail and plate vambraces, these are worth time spent for making and ideal for both newbie and experienced SCA fencer who care about mobility.

What are splinted bracers?

Splinted bracers were one of the most popular types of forearm protection from ancient times to the late Middle Ages. The first known appearance is associated with the 4th century BC Skythian grave, and then migration period Viking designs. In the Middle Ages splinted bracers (and also splinted cuisses and other armor elements) were mostly known as a part of transitional period armor designs. Overall, splinted vambraces are a rare combination of simple designs with comfortable fit and high-level protective capabilities. A variety of designs is known, some splinted bracers are completely formed by closely placed splints (metal planks), and some have gaps, sometimes protected by other metal elements. Also, Eastern and Japanese arm protection often had more anatomically shaped splints.

Come as a pair; should be worn over padding clothes. Also, can be made out of mild steel upon request.

To check how to measure yourself please click here.

Please contact us if you have any additional questions.

Important note: please take into account that we need your measurements in gambeson or other under-armour gear you are planning to use with this armor. The only exception is when you are ordering both armour and padding from our company — in this case you can send us your body measurements.

Safety disclaimer: Sword-fighting and fencing is a dangerous sport. Fencing, historical fencing, medieval reenactment and martial arts as well as other related types of activity, are inherently connected to a certain risk level of injuries or death. The Company declines all responsibility for any traumas or harm done to oneself or to the third person, along with any material or consequential damage, impaired during the products usage. We admonish that all acts with armour, weapons or their components have to be performed before designated person who is responsible for safety of the particular event and accredited to supervise armour and sport weapon conformance to the event’s standards.