Product reviews for Lorica Segmentata

I bought my Lorica from Museum Replicas 20+ years ago and it has stood the test of time.  The steel is in great shape and all the  leather straps are still like new. As far as I can tell, a very good copy of the Newstead type Lorica Segmentata of the late 1st century AD.

Well, it is substantial. The delivery box on my front porch was so heavy I had to wrestle it inside my house. Four heavy and tricky pieces inside the box. The instructions eventually said that I'd need a second pair of hands to assemble it, which turned out to be true. But it does look impressive on its stand in my living room on a wooden bench next to The Eagle armor I purchased a few years ago. I'm glad I got them both.

Well, it is substantial. The delivery box on my front porch was so heavy I had to wrestle it inside my house. Four heavy and tricky pieces inside the box. The instructions eventually said that I'd need a second pair of hands to assemble it, which turned out to be true. But it does look impressive on its stand in my living room on a wooden bench next to The Eagle armor I purchased a few years ago. I'm glad I got them both.

This is now an inaccurate reproduction of the Newstead Style of Lorica-Segmentata.  New evidence now indicates that this style of armor had very large brass or bronze hinges at the shoulders.  The armor is otherwise well-made from heavy 16-gauge mild steel. Most other repro "Segs" on the market are made from 18-gauge steel. This armor is not recommended for use in my reenactment Roman Legion XXIV due to historical inaccuracies, but would be good for theatrical or SCA battle use. Just as 2000 years ago when worn by Roman soldiers, the armor will require maintenance, primarily rust removal. As with most all ready-made plate body armor, if you are overly tall, short, thin or stout, this armor may not fit you well.  

Excellent reproduction in design. As with the originals lorica segmentata are prone to rust, not only because of the mild steel construction but because of the galvanic effect between the two metals: steel and the brass or, more properly bronze, fittings. Requires regular maintenance!