Armorer

An armorer is a craftsman or technician who designs, builds, repairs, and maintains armor and other protective gear. In historical contexts, armors were specialized artisans who forged and fitted plate armor and mail for knights. In modern usage, the term also refers to professionals who maintain ballistic protection—such as body armor, helmets, and other protective equipment—and who handle weapons or prop weapons in film, theater, or live performance.

Historically, armorers worked in medieval Europe as part of guilds dedicated to producing and repairing armor. They customized suits to fit individual wearers, produced rivets, straps, and fittings, and performed ongoing maintenance to ensure protection and mobility.

In contemporary settings, armorers may serve military, law enforcement, or security organizations, focusing on issuing, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing weapons and protective gear. They oversee safety protocols, manage inventories, and ensure compliance with laws and regulations governing firearms and equipment. In addition, armorers in film, television, and live productions act as weapons masters, responsible for procurement, handling, safety training, and coordination with stunt teams to ensure realistic yet safe portrayals of weapon use.

In museums or restoration contexts, armorer-conservators may restore historic armor and related equipment, interpret their function and construction for the public, and preserve delicate or valuable pieces for display or study.

Terminology varies by region: British English commonly uses armourer, while American English favors armorer. The profession overlaps with gunsmithing, prop handling, and conservation.