Mid 16thC Chain Flail

This mid 16thC chain flail is based on a piece in the Herman Historica Catalogue and is likely of German manufacture. The most notable thing about this piece is the use of what we would commonly call these days a bike chain, making this chain flail different to most other kinds in that it is directional. The use of this chain type in industrial applications goes back to at least the 14thC as you can see extensive diagrams for them in the works of Mariano Taccola.

This particular weapon, I made and featured in a YouTube film with Matt Easton, where you can see it being used and discuss the features of its unique design.

Shaft length 53cm/21″

Chain length including mace 36cm/14″