16-Gauge Mild Steel V-Face Medieval Chainmail Coif

"A sharp steel blade glides harmlessly off interlinked iron, and this V-face mantle keeps your line of sight clear when the shield wall clashes." Osric, Keeper of the Hearth & Forge

When outfitting foot soldiers at my forge workbench, I insist that protection must never blind a warrior to incoming strikes. This medieval chainmail coif incorporates a traditional V-shaped facial opening, framing your eyes and cheeks while shielding your throat, chin, and shoulders from glancing blows during a frantic melee.

Hand-assembled from 16-gauge mild steel, the coif features 10 mm round rings woven into a classic four-in-one butted pattern. This configuration balances structural integrity with fluid flexibility, letting you turn your head freely without binding against your armour. The wide lower mantle drapes evenly over chest and back, integrating seamlessly over a leather brigandine, steel breastplate, or quilted gambeson for garrison duty and full-scale battle reenactment.

Osric's Workbench Advice: Never wear interlinked iron directly over bare skin or unpadded linen. To ensure complete comfort and safety on campaign, pair this coif with a thick quilted canvas arming cap and padded collar. The padding absorbs blunt kinetic shock while preventing steel rings from pulling hair or chafing skin. Because mild steel reacts to rain and sweat, wipe the coif clean after use and treat the rings with mineral oil to prevent rust.