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Author:
Kevin Marshall
Last Updated:
01/14/03
Title:
Greek Armour Purchasing Guide

Quite a few people that we have spoken to, either through e-mail or via The Phalanx, have expressed interest in owning a complete set of Greek armor for themselves. The reason why? Some want to fulfill a long-delayed fantasy, some wish to join a reenactment group, and some just think it would make a sharp-looking piece of decor to use when the occasional costume party rolls around. All are valid reasons.

For these people, we have begun compiling a list of armourers that can supply the prospective hoplite with a full array of historically accurate gear.

Obtaining a full panoply can be very expensive indeed; don't be surprised if the total sum exceeds USD$3000. There are also difficulties that can come along the way, such as waiting periods, errors in measurement, and so on. But for some, it is well worth the expense to look and feel a part in one's favorite period in history.



DID WE MISS AN ARMOURER? PLEASE TELL US!
WE ARE WILLING TO LIST RELEVANT ITEMS AND HOST EXAMPLE PHOTOS FOR ARMOURERS WITHOUT WEBPAGES.

Helmet
Cuirass
Greaves
Hoplon
Kilt
Clothing
Spear
Blades
Sandals
Notes
X
custom
brass
brass
brass
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
custom
X
X
custom
 
X
 
custom
X
X
X
X
X
X
custom
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
 
X
X
X
X
X
custom
X
custom

For the sake of immediate clarity, we have simplified the relevant information into the table shown above. If an item is marked with an "X", it means that the particular item is available in at least bronze (the most desirable choice, it being historically accurate.) Brass alternatives may or may not be available. If an item is marked with "brass", this indicates that the item is only available in brass.

If you look on a particular webpage and don't see your items in a Greek section, try the Roman section. As with many other parts of their culture, the Romans took the liberty of borrowing quite a few elements from the Greek hoplite outfit. Cuirasses (particularly muscled), tunics, greaves, and sandals are examples of items that can be applicable equally well to the outfits of hoplites or centurions. You might find what you are looking for under the Roman pages. Unfortunately, the Greek-specific items can be comparatively more labor-intensive and are in much shorter supply, such as Corinthian helmets or hoplons (shields).

Most importantly, these armourers are generally a capable and adventurous lot! If you don't see a particular item you want on the list, it might pay to venture out and send them an email! If you are buying a large batch of armour from a certain source, say a helmet and greaves, and all you have left is the cuirass, perhaps the armourer would be willing to go out on a limb and hammer one out especially for you! If you see a "custom" written on the rightmost column above, that means that the armour is hand-made. Give it a shot, you have nothing to lose by asking!

We make no claims as to the thoroughness of this list! There are probably many armourers out there that we missed, but finding sites can sometimes be like finding a needle in the world's largest haystack. Also, although we try to keep it current, this list could go out of date and carry outdated information. We used to carry prices on our page, but since prices are constantly in flux, the page became misleading very quickly.


We hope that this list expedites your journey towards hoplitedom! The list is always evolving, so be sure to check back every so often. If you found this list useful or interesting, please sign the guestbook and let us know what you thought. Or even if you thought it needed work. There is no golden standard for usability, so your comments will be most helpful in the development of this website.

Kevin Marshall

All Original Text and Images are Copyright 2003 Kevin Marshall and Kevin Hendryx.
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