Wire Reference
This page contains various information and tables on the subject of wire.
Generally, an internal link diameter 6 or 7 times the wire gauge (6.5 if you prefer) will give a good looking maille. Most armor work can be done in 14 gauge wire with a 5/16" ID. A higher wire gauge indicates thinner wire. Larger wire sizes give heavier links, but links can be larger and take less time to make. Smaller wire sizes give lighter links, with smaller IDs (internal diameter), and take longer to make something with, but feel better when worn. Sources for Wire There are many types of wire available, including galvanized steel, stainless steel, cold drawn iron, aluminum, anodized aluminum, titanium, brass, gold, silver, nickel, etc. Historically, maille was made from iron wire. The closest thing available today is blackened annealed steel wire available at most hardware stores. Today most people use galvanized wire since it is fairly cheap and doesn't rust except on the cut edges of links, or where the zinc plating is worn off. Stainless steel will theoretically never rust, is always shiny and bright, but is heavier than galvanized. Aluminum is light, but doesn't fair well in battle. Titanium is light and strong, but work hardens quickly, meaning that bending it back and forth will cause it to break. For galvanized steel, going around to local hardware stores and buying it in 200 foot coils is a bit expensive (about $5 for 200 feet at the Home Depot). Look around for a specialty wire company, welding supply, or fencing supply. Here is a link to Kencove Farm Fence Supply, a good source for wire in long distances and good prices. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
