The Delingpod: The James Delingpole Podcast Chris Dobson
Apr 11, 2026
Chris Dobson, former master armorer turned author and conservator, talks about authentic medieval and Renaissance armour and how it was made and used. He discusses battle damage, armour finishes, horse protection and helmet evolution. He also recounts encountering secretive networks in the antiques trade and why he left the profession.
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Plate Armor Fought Alongside Early Firearms
- Plate armor coexisted with early firearms, so full harnesses were used on battlefields even as handguns and artillery appeared.
- Chris Dobson notes 15th century proofs show plate stopped bolts and bullets, and armorers tested pieces by shooting them from ~30 paces.
Medieval Armour Was Usually Dark Dyed Not Shiny
- Most surviving medieval armour had dark oxide colour finishes, not bright polished steel, serving as practical weatherproofing.
- Dobson found colour halos under rivets matching blues, purples and russet gray described in period documents and paintings.
Medieval Warriors Were Highly Trained Athletes
- Knights trained extensively in martial arts and physical skills; they were expected to vault into saddles and even perform cartwheels in armour.
- Dobson cites fencing manuals like Fiore dei Liberi showing grappling, dagger, sword and mounted techniques.
