Kikko Gane Do
Brigandine Armor

Description

Traditional Protection, Reinvented for the Modern Warrior

Kikko Gane Dō is a lightweight brigandine, flexible tatami (folding) style dō (cuirass), traditionally worn as either auxiliary armor beneath a full samurai suit or as a standalone light armor. Crafted with tightly woven kikkō (hexagonal armor plates) sewn between layers of cloth, it offers excellent protection from slashes, stabs, and even blunt force trauma (utilizing padding) while maintaining remarkable mobility and comfort.

This style of brigandine armor was favored by daimyō, samurai of all ranks, wealthy merchants, and possibly even shinobi (ninja), especially during the late Sengoku and early Edo periods. When worn under the primary dō, it provided added protection in combat; when worn over it, it helped muffle sound during stealth operations and shielded the outer armor from damage when scaling walls or traversing rough terrain.

Iron Mountain Armory faithfully recreates this historical samurai brigandine armor using traditional materials and construction techniques. Our kikkō gane dō is a perfect addition to your collection, ideal for martial arts training, historical reenactment, LARP, SCA, or cosplay. For added versatility, the kusazuri or gessan (armored skirt) can be made detachable, allowing it to function like a manchira (armored vest).

Key Features & Benefits:

• Custom Fit and Finish: Made to your chest/waist measurements with optional material, color, and pattern selections.
• Authentic Historical Design: Based on late Sengoku and early Edo-era examples.
• Enhanced Protection: Optional internal padding available for extra defense against blunt force.
• Detachable Skirt Option: Can be crafted with removable kusazuri/gessan for added versatility.

Shipping Information:

Our expert katchū-shi (armorers) handcraft each order with precision and care. Please allow at least 1 to 2 weeks for processing and careful crafting of your custom kikkō gane dō.

Ordering Tips:

• 4 / 5 – Chest / Waist Size: Order at least 2 cm larger for a more comfortable fit.
• C: Measure from where the chest meets the shoulder.
• D: Measure from the base of your neck to your navel.
• E: Start measuring 5 cm below the armpit for best results.

Please Note: Click the ? next to each option to review detailed instructions.

Accessories:

• Hikitate Eboshi – Add a traditional cloth hat to your order, traditionally worn by Samurai
• Sarashi Belt – A traditional long cotton belt, used by Samurai to to secure their katana
• Waraji Sandals – Bamboo straw sandals commonly used by samurai
• Waraji-Gake – Traditional type of Japanese sock that is to be worn together with the Waraji sandals
• Tabi Socks – Two toe section sock for use with sandals
• Yugake – Traditional samurai gloves

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References: Arms and Armor of the Samurai: The History of Weaponry in Ancient Japan  /    The Samurai: Warriors of Medieval Japan, 940-1600  /  Samurai: The Code of the Warrior   /