marmorer

A marmorer, also known as an armorer, is a craftsman who designs, builds, maintains, and repairs armor and related protective gear. Historically, armorers produced plate armor, chain mail, helmets, gauntlets, shields, and harnesses for knights and soldiers, often working in specialized workshops and guild-supported systems. The craft required metalworking skill, knowledge of anatomy and protection, and the ability to tailor equipment to individual wearers. With advances in firearms and changes in military technology, the prominence of traditional armorers declined, though the trade persisted in museums, private collections, and specialized refurbishing work.

In modern usage, the term typically covers professionals who handle protective equipment and weapons in specific contexts. Military and police armorers are responsible for the procurement, maintenance, calibration, and safe operation of service weapons and body armor, as well as related safety protocols and inventory management. In film, television, and live performance, an armorer is a prop and weapons specialist who sources authentic-looking firearms and armor, customizes gear for stunts, supervises on-set handling, ensures legal compliance, and coordinates with directors, prop masters, and safety officers. While safety and legality are central across these roles, responsibilities vary by organization and jurisdiction.

Common tools and materials associated with traditional and modern armoring include metal (steel or iron), leather for strapping and padding, rivets, and a variety of forging and fitting implements such as hammers, anvils, tongs, files, and grinders. The armorer’s work emphasizes craftsmanship, safety, and authenticity across historical reconstruction and contemporary protective equipment and weapons handling.