What is 1660 armor?

1660 Armor: A Glimpse into Mid-17th Century Protection

Armor in 1660 reflected a period of transition in European warfare. While still utilized, full plate armor was becoming increasingly obsolete due to the rise of more effective firearms, particularly the musket. Therefore, armor design focused on practicality and targeted protection of vital areas.

• Decline of Full Plate Armor: Full suits of armor, once the hallmark of knights, were becoming less common on the battlefield. The heavy weight and limited mobility they imposed were no longer seen as worthwhile tradeoffs against the stopping power of emerging weaponry. The decline of Full%20Plate%20Armor was a gradual process.

• Focus on Torso Protection: The most common type of armor in 1660 focused on protecting the torso. This typically consisted of a breastplate and backplate, often made of hardened steel. These offered vital protection against musket balls and melee weapons. The need for Torso%20Protection was evident.

• Helmets: Helmets were still worn, but often lighter and more open than their medieval predecessors. Popular choices included the burgonet and the morion, which offered reasonable protection while allowing for better vision and ventilation. Helmets were still important part of warfare.

• Reduced Limb Protection: Armor for the arms and legs was becoming less prevalent, especially among common soldiers. Instead, they relied on buff coats (thick leather jackets) for some level of protection, while prioritizing mobility. The use of Limb%20Protection was not common due to the era.

• Cavalry Armor: Heavier armor remained more common among cavalry units, particularly cuirassiers. They still used breastplates, backplates, helmets, and sometimes tassets (thigh guards) to provide better defense during charges and melee engagements. The Cavalry%20Armor remained stronger during that time.

• Materials and Construction: Armor was typically made from wrought iron or steel. The quality of the materials and the skill of the armorer determined its effectiveness. Better-quality armor was hardened and tempered to increase its resistance to penetration. Materials%20and%20Construction influenced the quality of the armor.

• Influence of Firearms: The dominance of firearms fundamentally altered armor design. Armorers had to balance protection against mobility and cost, leading to a decrease in the overall coverage and thickness of armor. Influence%20of%20Firearms pushed armor away from heavy plate armor.