Lorica Hamata

By Crusader1307

Developed in the 1st Century A.D., this early Chain Mail replaced the plated Lorica Segmentata. By the 4th Century A.D. - it had become the standard issue to The Roman Army. Made from iron or bronze, small riveted rings were interwoven together. These pieces were "punched" from a larger single piece of metal. As many as 30,000 rings were needed to make one complete Hamata. Often thought to have been "borrowed" from a design seen in use by Celtic warriors of the 3rd Century A.D. - the Hamata was first used in combat at Hispana. They were popular with Spearmen, Archers and some cavalry units. Although somewhat labor intensive, it was thought (if properly maintained), they could last for decades. They were also popular with Commanders in the 2nd Century (for mobility). As time progressed, Lorica Hamata began to be fashioned into sleeve and leg coverings.