Swordsmiths and Armourers Crafts

Text

Swordsmiths were originally blacksmith-cutlers specializing in blades for swords, knives, daggers and other hand-held side-arms.
In the 14th century, the making of armour started to become specialised and separate from the blacksmith’s craft. Specialist professions came into being – armourers, plate-smiths and helmet makers, who not only produced, but also sold their wares. As regards weapons, there were new specialised professions – the swordsmith, bladesmith, fletcher, arrowsmith, and in later centuries the gunsmith, bowyer or shieldsmith, making wooden and metal shields.
The price of a complete suit of armour was very high, affordable only to wealthy noblemen. Those who could not afford a complete suit of armour would have only partial metal armour and would rely on their agility for protection in combat.

Artwork