Armor

Armor still vital for modern personal defense
By Kelly Wright Some type of armor has been around for as long as humans have been fighting with each other. Armor has progressed from simple padded leather and cloth armor to chain mail and plate armor to the sophisticated ballistic body armor soldiers wear today.

In combat zones around the world, soldiers face powerful weapons that would have been unimaginable for your average medieval knight. State-of-the-art body armor protects soldiers from bullet impacts and can be supplemented to shield them from stabbing weapons and blunt blows.

Of course, you can still get your hands on old-fashioned armor in case you're planning to re-enact a medieval battle. Artisans still practice the armor-making techniques of old, carefully crafting intricate chain mail, plate armor, leather jerkins and more.

What kind of armor are you looking for? Follow these steps to find the body armor that meets your personal defense needs:

1. For cutting-edge protection, look for reputable armor manufacturers that sell high-quality battle armor.

2. If your armor needs are more retro, you can find blacksmiths making replica armor from ages past.

3. Tools, tutorials and supplies can help you make your own armor.

Find armor manufacturers that sell modern body armor

A modern, high-tech suit of armor is must-have equipment for today's soldiers. You can find armor retailers that offer police vests, riot gear, and combat-zone protection. Don't take chances with your body armor; make sure it's rated to withstand the conditions you're going to face.
Try:  EnGarde is an international body armor supplier that offers concealable, tactical, specialist and hard body armor. Global Armour sells military and police armor, and they even stock protective gear for your trusty canine sidekick. 

Explore the wares of modern-day medieval armor manufacturers

There isn't much call for medieval armor these days, other than on Hollywood movie sets and at your local Society for Creative Anachronism gathering. Modern-day medieval armor manufacturers are usually making replica knight armor and weapons that will never actually see battle. This old-school armor isn't of much use in a modern war zone, but it will look great in your production of Shakespeare's "Henry V."
Try:  Valentine Armouries specializes in replica historical armor for museums and film productions. HelmetsNSwords.com creates Roman, Medieval, Greek and Viking/Norman replica armor and weapons.

Learn to make, maintain and repair your own armor

Hobbyists with an interest in medieval armor should consider making their own armor pieces. Time-honored armor-making techniques have been used for centuries. You can find tools and supplies to create your own body armor, and you'll find no shortage of how-tos, tutorials and guides to help you along.
Try:  Centaur Forge sells starter kits and all the tools you need to become your own blacksmith and farrier. Warrior Metal Works sells supplies for making your own medieval, Viking or Roman armor, and they also sell finished armor pieces. At Age of Armour, you'll find an armor-making tutorial that walks you through the process.

• Take good care of your armor and it will take good care of you. Modern body armor requires regular maintenance and inspection for damage. Follow your manufacturer's washing and drying instructions, and store your armor flat when it isn't in use. Taking extra precautions with your armor can extend its life -- and yours.