Introduction to the Japanese Armour Manual of Sengoku Daimyo.com, with original introduction by Anthony J. Bryant and introduction to the additional material by Joshua L. Badgley

This is merely a thumbnail history of the major developments in Japanese armour. For more information on its history, consult the various titles in the bibliography.

A description of the various parts of the armor.

Instructions and information on kozane, the basic scales of Japanese lamellar armour.

This chapter talks about the lacing used for Japanese armour.

Information on the various types of dō, or cuirass, used in Japanese suits of armour.

Instructions on how to make a traditional Japanese cuirass, or dō, focused on creating armour for heavy re-enactment combat.

Presentation of some of the more common varieties of helmets based on their bowl (hachi) and nape-guard (shikoro).

This chapter covers the construction of two common types of helmet bowl and two common forms of shikoro.

Information on armor to protect the face, neck, and throat.

Chapter on armored sleeves.

Information on the shoulder guards, or sode.

How to make haidate, Japanese thigh armour, for modern reenactment, martial art, and combat sport purposes.

Leg protection from the knee to the bottom of the shin.

Miscellaneous parts of Japanese armour not discussed in other chapters in this manual.

Brief discussion and patterns for some easy clothing for use under the armor. For more in depth discussion see our articles on men’s garments and outfits.

Instructions on how to put on Japanese armour.

Instructions on building chests and stands to store and display Japanese armor.

Glossary of Japanese armour terms

Japanese Armour Manual Bibliography