The Evolution of Steel Body Armor: From Knights to Modern-Day Spartans
The history of steel body armor has been an essential component of human warfare for centuries. From the days of knights in shining armor to the cutting-edge designs of today, the evolution of steel body armor has continually improved to provide better protection for those on any battlefield. This article will explore the historical journey of steel body armor and how Spartan Armor Systems® has contributed to the development of modern steel body armor.
The Days of Knights: Medieval Steel Armor
Steel armor has been around since ancient times, including the eras of the Romans and Greeks. Yet, the image we associate with knights is the one of them wearing shiny steel plate armor, which was popular during the Middle Ages. Each knight was responsible for obtaining their own armor, which was both expensive and time-consuming to make. While steel plate armor offered exceptional protection against weapons of that time, like swords and arrows, it also came with the drawback of being heavy and limiting mobility.
The Renaissance: Advances in Steel Armor Design
During the Renaissance era, advancements in steel armor design allowed for more comfortable and form-fitting armor. Armorers created joints that allowed greater mobility and tailored the steel plates to the wearer's body. However, the increased use of firearms during that time made steel armor less useful, leading to a reduction in its use on the battlefield.
The Resurgence of Steel Body Armor: World War I and Beyond
At the start of the 20th century, the increased threat of bullets and shrapnel during World War I led to a resurgence in the use of steel armor. The use of helmets and steel breastplates provided soldiers with a form of protection, but it came at a cost. The steel armor was often heavy, cumbersome, and limited the movement of soldiers on the battlefield. Soldiers had to balance the need for protection with the need for mobility, and often had to make trade-offs between the two.
Modern Steel Body Armor: Spartan Armor Systems®
Today, steel body armor has undergone significant advancements, resulting in lightweight, flexible, and highly protective solutions. Spartan Armor Systems® is at the forefront of this evolution, offering a wide range of American-made steel body armor products, such as Spartan™ Omega™ AR500 Steel Plates and AR550 Steel Plates, designed to provide level III and level III+ protection respectively. Not to mention the innovative designs to make steel body armor more comfortable. Spartan Armor Systems® Advanced Triple Curve, is a true multi-curve design that conforms to the wearer’s body. You can get either of our two Steel plate options in ATC or single curve (which our competitors call their “multi-curve” design).
AR500 Steel Armor
The Spartan™ Omega™ AR500 Steel Plates are an affordable and effective option for body armor, providing level III protection against most common handgun and rifle rounds. With various packages available, such as the Active Shooter Kit and the Leonidas Plate Carrier Package, you can find the right combination of protection and mobility for your needs.
AR550 Steel Armor
For those seeking higher protection, Spartan Armor Systems® also offers AR550 Steel Plates, which provide even greater resistance to ballistic threats. The Spartan AR550 Body Armor and Tactical Response Kit is an excellent example of a package that combines the superior level III+ protection of AR550 steel plates with the necessary tactical gear for a variety of situations.
Conclusion
The evolution of steel body armor has come a long way since the days of knights in shining armor. Today's modern steel armor offers exceptional protection, mobility, and comfort for those in high-risk situations. Spartan Armor Systems® continues to innovate and develop state-of-the-art steel body armor solutions, ensuring that modern-day Spartans are well-equipped to face the challenges of the battlefield. With their wide range of American-made steel body armor products, Spartan Armor Systems® is an industry leader committed to providing superior protection for those who put their lives on the line.