Chain collar
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The chainmail collar is one of the most important pieces of protective armour in medieval combat gear – it protects the neck, shoulders and, to some extent, the upper chest, precisely where the helmet and body armour leave a gap. Whether for re-enactment, exhibition combat or LARP: if you know the different types and understand the differences, you can make an informed choice and avoid costly mistakes when buying.
Chainmail collars, bishop’s collars, chainmail coifs – which term refers to what?
These terms are often confused in the trade and within the community, but historically they refer to different constructions:
The chainmail collar in the strict sense – referred to as ‘standard’ in English – is a simple piece of chain mail that was attached or sewn directly onto the gambeson or armour tunic. This form is typical of the late Middle Ages (14th/15th century) and primarily protected the neck and shoulder area. It is not a separate garment, but an integral part of the armour.
The bishop’s collar, on the other hand, is a separate piece worn over leather straps and buckles, covering the neck, shoulders and upper chest. It was frequently worn in combination with plate armour of the 14th and 15th centuries and is thus the more complete, self-supporting variant.
The chainmail coif (also known as a camail) is specifically designed to be attached to helmets such as the nasal helmet, the basin helmet or the pot helmet. It hangs in a ring shape from the lower rim of the helmet and protects the face, neck and nape. It is fastened directly to the helmet using rivets, leather straps or laces.
The historical term ‘Halsberge’ (Middle High German: halsberc) refers, in the broadest sense, to any form of neck protection made of chain mail and appears in various historical sources as a generic term. You will also find other related items under ‘neck guards’ and ‘collars’. In modern specialist shops, the term is used less frequently – the more specific terms ‘chain collar’, ‘bishop’s collar’ and ‘chain mail’ are more common.
Authentic vs. LARP-suitable: the key differences at a glance
- Riveted rings (round rivets or wedge rivets)
- Historically documented ring types: flat rings or round rings
- Tight inner diameter: 6–8 mm for high protection density
- Material: steel, carbon steel or mild steel
- More complex manufacturing, higher price
- Correct fit and combination with chain hoods and chain arms are crucial
- Unriveted rings accepted
- Aluminium for significantly lower weight
- Larger inner diameter possible (8–9 mm)
- Affordable entry-level option from approx. €12–15
- Visually appealing, less robust than the riveted version
- Can be combined with Hauberk and Haubergeon for a cohesive overall look
Comparison of ring types and materials
The choice of ring type and material significantly influences protection, weight, appearance and maintenance requirements. The following table provides an overview of the variants available in the range:
| Ring type / Material | Suitability | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Round rings, unriveted | LARP / Beginners | Affordable, easy to repair, lower stability |
| Round rings, riveted with round rivets | Reenactment | Historically accurate, more robust than the unriveted version |
| Flat rings, round rivets | Reenactment | Flatter profile, lighter weight, historically accurate from the High Middle Ages onwards |
| Flat rings, wedge rivets | Reenactment / Advanced | Maximum stability, late medieval style, intricate craftsmanship |
| Mixed riveted + stamped | Reenactment | Historically verified, more cost-effective than fully riveted versions |
| Mild steel | LARP / Beginners | Inexpensive, prone to rust, regular oiling required |
| Spring steel | LARP / Intermediate | Springy rings, good fit, easier to maintain than mild steel |
| Carbon steel (galvanised) | Reenactment | High strength, galvanisation protects against rust |
| Blued steel | Reenactment / Appearance | Dark finish, low-maintenance, historically documented treatment |
| Aluminium | LARP / Costume | Very light, no rust, lower protective effect, not suitable for reenactment |
The inner diameter of the rings directly affects drape, weight and protective effect: 6 mm rings sit close together, offer more protection and are heavier – they are typical of high-quality late medieval re-enactments. 8 mm rings are the most common compromise between protection and comfort. 9 mm rings are lighter and cheaper, but are more suitable for LARP and occasional use.
Which chainmail collar suits which re-enactment goal?
Unriveted round rings made of spring steel or galvanised steel – visually appealing and affordable. Ideal for first LARP adventures, medieval markets or costume reenactments. The simple chainmail collar for weaving, from around €12, is the most affordable entry-level option; the bishop’s collar with unriveted rings and leather straps offers more support and shoulder coverage for around €40–50.
Riveted round rings or flat rings with round rivets, 8 mm inner diameter, made of steel. The bishop’s collar with riveted rings and leather straps offers a historically accurate look and solid protection. Combines well with breastplates and armour, as well as chainmail hoods, for a complete armour display.
Wedge-riveted flat rings or mixed riveting (riveted and stamped), 6–8 mm, steel. Bishop’s collar with leather straps for a complete 14th/15th-century armour display. The chainmail coif for early medieval and Viking helmets or high medieval helmets completes any historically ambitious outfit.
How to put on, combine and care for chainmail collars
Put on the bishop’s collar so that the mesh lies evenly on both shoulders and covers the neck all the way round. Adjust the leather straps at the back so that the garment sits securely without pressing or slipping. Ideally, wear a gambeson underneath – it cushions the chainmail collar and prevents pressure marks. The bishop’s collar is usually worn over the gambeson and under a breastplate; alternatively, it can also be used as standalone neck and shoulder protection without further plate armour.
The late medieval chainmail collar (standard) is traditionally laced or sewn onto the gambeson. When lacing, lacing cords are threaded through the edge loops of the chainmail and fastened to the prepared eyelets on the gambeson. This method is reversible and well-documented historically. When sewing on, the chainmail is permanently fixed to the gambeson using sturdy linen thread – practical for a fixed armour combination. Both methods are historically accurate for the late Middle Ages.
The chainmail coif is attached to the lower edge of the helmet, usually by riveting it directly to the helmet’s leather strap, using leather straps, or by lacing. On nasal helmets and basin helmets, it hangs down in a ring shape, covering the neck, cheeks and, in part, the chin. Ensure that the coif is long enough to fully cover the neck even when moving, and that it is not so heavy that the helmet tilts forwards. The combination of helmet and chainmail coif is particularly characteristic of High Medieval re-enactment (11th–13th centuries).
Mild steel and carbon steel rings rust quickly when exposed to moisture. After each use, lightly oil the chain mail with a neutral oil – weapon oil or sewing machine oil are suitable. Burnished steel is somewhat easier to maintain due to its surface treatment, but should still be oiled occasionally. Aluminium is rust-free and virtually maintenance-free. To store, roll up the chain mail or hang it up to dry – never store it folded up whilst damp, as rust will otherwise form between the rings. Rust can be removed with fine steel wool followed by oiling, provided it is only superficial.
Historical background: When and how was the chainmail collar worn?
High Middle Ages: Hauberk and chainmail coif
In the High Middle Ages, chainmail neck protection was usually integrated directly into the hauberk – the long chainmail shirt – or designed as an attached part of the chainmail coif. The chainmail coif on the helmet, attached to a nasal helmet or basin-shaped coif, was the typical solution for knights and heavily armed foot soldiers. A separate, detachable chainmail collar was still the exception in this era.
Early Late Middle Ages: The separate chainmail collar emerges
With the increasing prevalence of plate armour elements (chest, arm and leg plates), the chainmail collar became more important as a separate piece. It filled the gap between the helmet and the breastplate. Attachment by lacing onto the gambeson was common; the collar could thus be put on and taken off separately. Historical evidence shows both simple round rings and the first flat-ring constructions.
Bishop’s collar as a supplement to plate armour
The bishop’s collar developed as a self-supporting piece with a leather fastening system, covering the neck, shoulders and upper chest. It was increasingly combined with full plate armour and is particularly characteristic of depictions from the 14th and 15th centuries. Its construction from wedge-riveted or mixed-riveted flat rings reflects the standard of late medieval craftsmanship.
Decline of pure chainmail
During the late 15th century, chainmail armour was increasingly supplemented or replaced by full plate armour. The closed armour with an integrated collar plate took over many of the protective functions previously fulfilled by the chain mail. However, chainmail collars remained in use as an addition under or between plate sections – particularly in simpler armour sets worn by foot soldiers and mercenaries.
From affordable entry-level models with unriveted spring steel rings starting at €12 to high-quality bishop’s collars with wedge-riveted flat rings, you’ll find the right chainmail collar for your reenactment needs in our range. Complement it with chainmail hoods, chainmail sleeves or a full chainmail tunic for a cohesive, historically authentic overall look.
Frequently Asked Questions
A chainmail collar in the strict sense is a simple piece of chain mail that is draped or sewn directly onto the gambeson – typical of the late Middle Ages. A bishop’s collar is a separate piece with leather straps and buckles, worn without further fastening and covering the neck, shoulders and upper chest. The bishop’s collar is thus the self-supporting, more complete variant and is particularly suitable for 14th- and 15th-century re-enactments.
For historically accurate reenactments, riveted rings are essential: both round rings with round rivets and flat rings with wedge or round rivets are historically attested. Flat rings with wedge rivets are considered particularly high-quality and are typical of the late Middle Ages. The inner ring diameter of 6–8 mm corresponds to historical finds. Unriveted rings are suitable for LARP and costume performances, but are not sufficient for serious re-enactment.
Chainmail provides excellent protection against slashes and cuts, but offers less resistance than plate armour against blunt blows and, above all, against piercing by pointed weapons (daggers, pikes, crossbow bolts). With the increasing prevalence of crossbows and improved forging techniques, full plate armour became more attractive. However, chain mail remained in use for a long time as a supplement beneath plate sections and in simpler armour sets.
Steel rings – whether made of mild steel, spring steel or carbon steel – rust when exposed to moisture. After each use, the chainmail should be oiled with a thin film of gun oil or sewing machine oil. Burnished steel is somewhat easier to maintain, but also benefits from occasional oiling. Aluminium chainmail is low-maintenance and rust-free. To store, roll the piece up dry or hang it up – never store it folded up whilst damp, as rust will otherwise build up between the links.
Chain mail visors are primarily designed for helmets that have a leather rim or a riveting option at the lower edge of the helmet – such as nasal helmets, basin helmets or pot helmets. They are attached by riveting to the leather band, leather straps or tassels. With modern decorative helmets without a prepared rim, attachment is often not possible without modifications. The range includes chain mail coifs specially made for historical helmet types and fitted with appropriate attachment options.