Armorers

An armorer, or armorers in plural, is a craftsman or technician who designs, fabricates, maintains, or repairs protective armor and related equipment. Historically, armorers produced plate armor, helmets, gauntlets, and other protective gear for knights and soldiers. They worked in workshops or guilds, combining metalworking, leatherwork, and textile skills. Their craft involved forging, bending, riveting, tempering steel, and sometimes engraving or adornment. They also supplied accessories such as shields, vambraces, and greaves and sourced materials from metalworkers and tanners.

In modern times, armorers operate in several domains. Military armorers manage protective gear and sometimes firearms and related equipment, ensuring proper fit, maintenance, and safety compliance. Law enforcement armorers maintain ballistic vests, helmets, shields, and other PPE, perform inspections, and issue gear. In the film and television industry, armorers, often referred to as prop masters or armory, design and costume armor for characters, fabricate or modify pieces, and oversee safety during firearms demonstrations and live-action stunts. They may use non-functional or replica weapons and adhere to strict safety standards.

Training typically involves apprenticeships, technical schools, and knowledge of metallurgy, leatherworking, and safety regulations. The role requires precision, craftsmanship, and familiarity with historical styles or contemporary equipment, depending on the context. Armorers contribute to both historical reenactment and modern protective technology, balancing authenticity, protection, and safety.