Ringbrynjor

Ringbrynjor is an Old Norse term referring to mail armor, specifically a hauberk or shirt made of interlinked metal rings. This type of armor was prevalent in Norse society and throughout medieval Europe. The construction involved carefully forging and linking numerous small metal rings, typically made of iron or steel, to create a flexible yet protective garment. The rings were usually riveted or butted together, with riveted mail being considered stronger.

The effectiveness of ringbrynjor lay in its ability to distribute the force of blows and deflect cuts, making it a significant defense against bladed weapons. While offering excellent protection against slashing attacks, its efficacy against piercing weapons, like arrows or spears, was more limited. The weight of a full ringbrynjor could be substantial, often requiring the wearer to be of considerable strength and endurance.

Ringbrynjor was a costly and time-consuming piece of equipment to produce, indicating that its ownership was often associated with warriors of status, such as chieftains and their retinues. Archaeological finds of mail fragments and depictions in art, like the Bayeux Tapestry, provide evidence of its widespread use. The term itself highlights the importance of this armor in the military culture of the Viking Age and subsequent medieval periods.