Armurerie

Armurerie is a term encompassing the art, craft, and business of making and selling weapons and armor. Historically, armurers were highly skilled artisans who forged metal into protective garments and offensive implements. The medieval period saw a peak in the development of intricate and specialized armor, with master armurers holding significant prestige. These craftsmen not only produced functional pieces but also created works of art adorned with engraving and gilding.

The scope of armurerie extends beyond personal arms and armor to include defensive structures and siege weaponry. The decline of traditional warfare with the advent of firearms led to a transformation in the armurerie trade. While the production of historical armor diminished, the focus shifted towards firearms, their repair, and customization.

In modern times, the term armurerie often refers to a gunsmith or a shop that sells firearms, ammunition, and related accessories. This includes legal entities involved in the manufacture, sale, and maintenance of modern weaponry for civilian, law enforcement, and military purposes. The skills involved may range from machining and metalworking for firearm production to the expertise required for historical weapon restoration and display. The legal and ethical considerations surrounding the trade of armurerie are significant and vary by jurisdiction.