Unleash your inner warrior with a personalized samurai armor set that reflects your unique spirit and passion for the Bushido way. At Iron Mountain Armory, we make it easy and exciting to embark on your journey to owning a custom-crafted piece of history—an armor set tailored to your specifications, embodying both tradition and your modern warrior persona.
This page provides a detailed breakdown of the customization options available for our samurai armor, clothing, and accessories. From selecting materials to choosing intricate design elements, we’ve carefully designed our process to ensure you can create an armor set that is as authentic as it is personal.
We understand that with so many options, the process might seem overwhelming at first. That’s why we’ve created this guide—to simplify the journey and make the experience fun and rewarding. Each option is clearly explained, and you can click the provided links to view visual examples for better understanding. Whether it’s customizing the colors, adding clan crests (mon), or tailoring the fit, every detail is crafted with care to reflect your individuality and warrior spirit.
If you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to check out our FAQ Page or contact us directly. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your custom samurai armor exceeds your expectations and stands as a proud testament to the Modern Warrior within you.
Take the first step toward bringing your samurai legacy to life—create your own custom yoroi today!
KABUTO STYLES: Kachi Armors can be ordered with two styles of Kabuto. Gashira Armors can be ordered with four styles (depending on model):
CREST OPTIONS: This gives you the option of changing, customizing or removing the front crest from the helmet. The crest can be wooden, brass cast or engraved with your personal symbol or one of these: 1 2 3
MON NUMBER: This option tells us which symbol you would like us to paint or engrave on different parts of the armor, material or box which you have selected. These are some of the standard options: 1 2 3
NUMBER OF PLATES: This option is available for “suji-bachi” style helmets and allows you to chose how many plates are used to craft the “bowl” section of your helmet. The standard for Kachi and Gashira class armor is “Simulated” which means the helmet bowl will be crafted from a single sheet of steel and made to look like it is crafted from several pieces, unless you specify to have a certain number of plates (not available on all models).
KABUTO COLOR: This option changes which color and texture the entire helmet is painted.
SHIKORO COLOR: Select the main color & finish for your “neck guard” to be painted. You can paint the bottom plate a different color by using the “Advanced Custom Options” below.
MAIN LACE COLOR: Select the main lace (odoshi) color you would like for your neck and throat guard to be painted. You can customize your lace patterns by using the “Advanced Custom Options” below.
KABUTO RIVET OPTION: Select this if you would like your helmet to be smooth or have raised rivets.
KABUTO OPTIONS – Ring Option (Ring with Tassel): This is the “Kasa jirushi no kan” which was a ring on the back of a helmet, designed to carry a small identification flag or, on later helmets, an agemaki bow (a specially knotted cord). This is not available for all helmet models.
DISPLAY TYPE: A standard portable stand is included with every helmet order. This option allows you to upgrade to a fully adjustable portable display stand or add a wooden storage / display box to your order.
KABUTO COLOR: Select the main color & finish your helmet will be painted. You can paint individual helmet parts using the “Advanced Custom Options” below.
FUKIGAESHI COLOR: Select the color & finish the ears, or fukigaeshi, will be painted.
SHIKORO BOTTOM PLATE: This option changes the color and texture of the lowest hanging plate with which the neck guard is painted, also known as “Suso no ita“ or “Shikoro Accent Plate”.
SHIKORO HORIZONTAL LACE: This option changes the color of lace, or odoshi, which is used on the lower lace that runs along the bottom plate of the neck guard. This is different from the mimi-ito.
SHIKORO VERTICAL LACE: This option changes the color lace (odoshi) is used along the outer edge of the neck guard. This is different from the mimi-ito.
SHIKORO MAIN LACE: This option changes the color lace, or odoshi, which is used along the outer edge of the neck guard. This is different from the mimi-ito.
SHIKORO MIMI-ITO LACE: This option changes the color of lace, or odoshi, which is used on the neck guard of the helmet and will replace the “MAIN LACE COLOR” option.
TARE COLOR: This option changes the color and texture of the neck plating when the mask section is painted.
TARE BOTTOM PLATE: This option changes the color and texture of the lowest hanging plate of the mask when the neck protector is painted, also known as “Suso no ita“ or “Accent Plate”.
TARE LACE COLOR: This option changes the color of lace, or odoshi, which is used on the throat guard of the mask. It will replace the “MAIN LACE COLOR” option.
TARE HORIZONTAL LACE: This option changes the color of lace, or odoshi, which is used on the lower lace that runs along the bottom plate of the throat guard. This is different from the mimi-ito.
TARE VERTICAL LACE: This option changes the color of lace, or odoshi, which is used along the outer edge of the throat guard. This is different from the mimi-ito.
TARE MIMI-ITO LACE: Add an extra row of lacing to your tare (throat guard) for an additional cost. If it is left blank it may match your MAIN LACE option selected above.
KABUTO VISOR OPTIONS: Customize the visor of your helmet with embossed eyebrows and/or wrinkles.
KABUTO TRIM OPTIONS: Select this option to add a fukurin (metal trim) around the outer edges of your helmet. This option might differ depending on model and/or different options selected.
FUKIGAESHI CREST: Add a mon (symbol) to the fukigaeshi (ears) of your helmet. This can be a standard mon or custom design which you can email us in “Clip-Art” format. Also known as a Suemon.
ADD PONY TAIL: Add a horse or yak ponytail to the top of your helmet. This option might differ depending on the model and/or different options which you have selected.
MENPO COLOR: This lets us know what color you would like your face mask painted.
MENPO STYLE: This gives you the choice to select the style of face armor that will be crafted with your helmet. Depending on which mask you select will give you more or less customization options.
MENPO COLOR: Select the main color and finish with which your mask and throat guard will be painted. You can paint the bottom plate a different color by using the “Advanced Custom Options” below.
MUSTACHE STYLE: Add character to your armor by selecting a custom mustache option. This option is only available on certain mask or nose styles.
NOSE STYLE: This option is available when “Menpo” is selected, and is often the standard option for all helmets. You can choose between the different noses available for the style of mask you selected.
Gashira Noses / Taisho Noses
MUSTACHES:Add character to your armor by selecting a custom mustache option.
Note: This option may not be available depending on which “nose” option you select.
NOSE: This option changes the style of nose your mask is crafted with. This option may affect your mustache options, depending on which nose you select. Gashira Noses / Taisho Noses
TARE LACE COLOR: This option changes the color of odoshi (lace) which is used on the throat guard of the mask.
ADVANCED / EXTRA PAINT OPTIONS –
TARE PLATE STYLE: This changes the plate style for the throat guard which will be used on your mask.
DISPLAY TYPE: This adds a custom table top display stand to your order. This is a great way to display any mask.
TARE COLOR: This option changes the color and texture of the neck plating on the mask section when it is painted.
TARE ACCENT PLATE: This option changes the color and texture of the lowest hanging plate of the mask neck protector when it is painted, also known as “Suso no ita“.
TARE HORIZONTAL LACE: This option changes the color of odoshi (lace) when it is used on the lower lace that runs along the bottom plate of the throat guard. If you add a Mimi-Ito, the Mimi-Ito lace will be added above the horizontal lace. It sits above the horizontal lace.
TARE VERTICAL LACE: This option changes the color of odoshi (lace) which is used along the outer edge of the throat guard. This is different from the mimi-ito.
TARE MIMI-ITO:
This option changes or adds the odoshi (lace) to be used along the outer edge (vertical & horizontal) of the throat guard. If you select vertical lace, this will add another outer lace, making your vertical and horizontal lace second.
MAIN ARMOR COLOR – This option changes the color and texture with which the chest and back section of your dō is painted.
MAIN LACE COLOR – This option changes what color lace , or odoshi, is used on your dō.
CHEST SIZE – This option changes the girth size of your dō. While inhaling deeply, have an assistant wrap the tape measure under your armpits and around the largest part of your chest. In the back, you will want the tape measure to wrap across your shoulder blades. The tape measure should be snug, but not tight.
NECK TO FRONT BEND – This option affects the distance between the very top of the dō to the very bottom of your dō plate. The dō should rest where you waist and hips meet. This length adjustment will help stop your dō from pressing into your chin when sitting. Measure it from where your throat meets your chest, and straight down to your navel. Do not measure the contour of your chest and belly, this should be measured with a measuring stick.
ARMPIT TO WAIST – This option affects the distance between the armpit and waist of your dō. This prevents the armor from pushing into your armpit while training or sitting. Starting 5 cm below your armpit, measure straight down to your navel line. Do not measure the contour of your chest and belly, this should be measured with a measuring stick.
KUSAZURI PLATE COLOR – This option changes the paint color and texture of the hanging plates below the dō.
KUSAZURI BOTTOM PLATE – This option changes the paint color and texture of the very bottom hanging plate, below the dō.
KUSAZURI LACE COLOR – This option changes the color of lace which is used for the hanging plates below the dō.
KUSAZURI BOTTOM LACE – This option changes the color of lace which is used for the horizontal lacing at the very bottom hanging plate, below the dō. This is different from the mimi-ito.
KUSAZURI SIDE LACE – This option changes the color of lace which is used for the vertical laces, going down the outside of the hanging plates, below the dō. This is different from the mimi-ito.
MIMI-ITO COLOR – This option changes or adds a color or even multi-colored lace (depending on model and option selected), to the bottom and side laces of the kusazuri. This will be added in addition to the “side” or “bottom” lace, if either option is selected. AKA “horizontal” and “vertical” lace.
SHOULDER PAD FABRIC – This option changes the fabric used in the shoulder padding of your dō. If left blank the standard fabric will be used which matches your color options.
SHOULDER PAD LACE – This option changes the wide lace used in the shoulder padding of your dō. This lace holds the kikko (armor plates) of the shoulder padding in place.
SHOULDER PAD THREAD – This option changes the thread used to outline the kikko plates, sewn into the shoulder padding. If left blank the “Shoulder Pad Lace” option will be used
Dō RIVET STYLE – This option changes your dō details by keeping a smooth finish or adding raised rivets.
ADD BRASS FITTINGS – This option changes the decor of your dō by adding or removing the brass fittings used to decorate it.
Dō CHEST RINGS – This option changes the detail of your dō by adding 1 or 2 rings to the chest section, it can be used to display tassels or hold a saihai or gunbai.
Dō MON OPTIONS – This gives you the option of painting a samurai clan, school or custom mon (symbol) on the chest of your armor. A custom mon needs to be emailed to us in a “clip art”, JPG or PDF format, mono-color and in a printable resolution size of at least 10×10″ (24.5×24.5 cm).
Please note: Selecting to paint a mon on a suna finish or with raised rivets may cause some blemishes in the painting. Also highly detailed custom mon / symbols (fine lines) might be reduced in detail when printing at the crafter’s discretion.
SODE STYLE: This option will change the different style of sode can order.
SODE SIZING: This option will effect the length of your sode. The measurement given should be from the outer corner of your shoulder to the top of your elbow.
MAIN ARMOR COLOR: This option changes the color and texture which the chest and back of your dō will be painted.
BOTTOM PLATE COLOR: This option changes the paint color and texture of the very bottom hanging plate.
MAIN LACE COLOR: This option changes the color lace which is used on your dō.
SIDE LACE COLOR: This option changes the color lace which will be used for the vertical laces, going down the sides of the sode. This is different from the mimi-ito.
HANGING ROPE COLOR: This option changes the color of the rope that hangs from the sode ring. This connects to the back of the do to prevent the sode from falling forward during action.
LEATHER OPTION: O-Sode option only, this option changes the color and design of the printed leather applied to the top of the sode.
ROW LACE COLOR: These options change the color of lace used on each plate from top to bottom.
MIMI-ITO LACE: This option changes or adds a color or multi-colored lace (depending on model and option selected) to the bottom and side laces of the sode.
BRASS FITTINGS: The decorative brass fittings at the top of the shoulder armor. Kacho Sode do not have these.
BRASS RINGS: The decorative brass bracket and ring halfway down the sode. These rings will be fitted with a tasselled hanging rope. These ropes are Red by default, but can be ordered in White or Yellow by special order. Kachi Sode lack both of these features.
CLOTH BACKING: Each Sode is backed in cloth, which strengthens the shoulder plates, as well as helping to protect the other parts of the armor from scratching or snagging.
KOTE STYLE: This option changes the style of kote you customize and purchase. 1 2
MAIN ARMOR COLOR: This option changes the paint color and texture of the armor plating.
MATERIAL OPTION: This option changes the material used for the sleeve which makes up the kote. Hemp and brocades are standard options.
MAIN LACE COLOR: This option changes the odoshi (lace) color used at the top of the sleeve. This part is used to tie the kote to the yoroi or around the body. Typically not seen.
CUSTOM SIZING: This option affects the sizing of the kote to create a better fit for the wearer. Please note the hand section of the kote is 1 standard size.
HAIDATE OPTION: This option tells us which style of haidate you would like us to craft for you.
MAIN ARMOR COLOR: This option lets us know the color and finish you would like us to use to paint the armor plating.
MATERIAL OPTION: This option changes the material or brocade pattern we will use to make your haidate.
LEATHER OPTION: This changes the leather color and/or pattern that will be used on your haidate, above the armor plating.
MAIN LACE COLOR: This option changes the lace used to hold the armor plates to your haidate. This depends on style you choose for us to craft for you.
ENDING OPTIONS:
SUPPORT OPTIONS:
CUSTOM SIZING –
WAIST SIZE: This lets us know how to size the length of the himo (belt) which ties the haidate around your waist.
HIP LENGTH: This adjusts the length of the haidate between the waist and top of your thigh to allow more comfort and flexibility when walking and seated.
THIGH LENGTH:This adjusts the length of the haidate between the top of the thigh to top of knee, and to ensure more protection and comfort.
SUNEATE STYLE: Use this option to select the style of suneate you would like us to craft for you.
MAIN ARMOR COLOR: This changes the color and texture that we will use to paint the metal armor plates.
MAIN LACE COLOR: Depending on the style you select, this option will change the lace used to tie the shin plates.
ACCENT LACE COLOR: This is the lace color used to tie your suneate to your shin.
MATERIAL OPTIONS: This option changes the material which your suneate is laced with.
LEATHER OPTIONS: This option changes the leather that is used on the inside of the shin, above the ankle.
HIZA LACE COLOR: This option changes the lace (knotting) used in the knee protection.
HIZA THREAD COLOR: This option changes the thread used to outline the lace (knotting) in the knee protection.
SUNEATE LENGTH: This option changes the length of the suneate.
Discover the array of stunning colors and finishes available to personalize your samurai armor. This section showcases the various paint options we offer for our suits and individual armor pieces, allowing you to craft a set that reflects your warrior spirit.
Please note that certain color and finish options are exclusive to specific armor classes. Not all combinations are available for every class, so be sure to check the details for your chosen armor.
Explore the possibilities below and envision your custom samurai armor in the perfect hue! If you have any questions about compatibility or special requests, feel free to contact us—we’re here to help you bring your vision to life.
Please note that these images are for reference only. Actual tin / hue or shade may vary depending on screen settings. Products are hand-painted so slight variations between orders may occur.
Our popular Black Matte finish offers a classic look with a subtle reflective shine, making it an excellent all-around choice for traditional samurai armor. This finish has deep roots in history, as it was one of the most common and practical color options for samurai yoroi.
Its understated elegance provides a neutral base, allowing more elaborate lace colors to stand out beautifully, making it ideal for customization. Due to the meticulous painting process, the texture and level of shine may vary slightly between orders, ensuring each armor piece is as unique as the warrior who wears it.
Our Black Gloss finish captures the elegance and brilliance of traditional Kuro urushi nuri—a classic black lacquer used on samurai armor throughout history. The high-gloss surface reflects light beautifully, giving your yoroi a polished and regal appearance befitting a true warrior.
Due to the meticulous painting process, the texture and level of shine may vary slightly between orders, ensuring each piece is uniquely crafted. The Black Gloss finish embodies the timeless sophistication and strength of the samurai spirit.
Our Black Suna finish replicates the textured effect of rough sand (suna) on samurai armor, providing a surface with a subtle sandpaper-like feel. This unique texture absorbs light, making the armor appear even darker and more striking in natural settings.
While photographs may show a slight “grey” tint due to studio lighting, this is only to enhance visibility for clarity. In reality, the finish exudes a deep, shadowy blackness that embodies the power and mystique of a true warrior.
As with all handcrafted finishes, the texture and depth of the Black Suna may vary slightly between orders, ensuring every piece has its own unique character. Choose Black Suna to enhance the boldness and stealth of your yoroi.
Our Black Uzumaki finish offers a refined and distinctive appearance with a subtle shine and a delicate ripple effect, evoking the traditional tataki nuri lacquer technique. This finish was historically favored for its understated elegance, often adorning the more traditional yoroi of Japan’s samurai elite.
The ripple effect adds depth and character to the armor, ensuring a unique visual appeal that sets it apart. The slight sheen enhances the finish, making it both modest and striking, perfect for those who appreciate subtle yet impactful details in their armor.
As with all our handcrafted finishes, the texture and level of shine may vary slightly between orders, ensuring each piece remains as unique as the samurai spirit it represents. Choose Black Uzumaki to honor tradition with a touch of individuality.
Our Brown Suna finish is designed to mimic the texture of suna (rough sand) on the armor’s surface. This distinctive brown hue was carefully chosen to replicate the traditional Sabi nuri lacquer technique, which creates a surface reminiscent of aged, rusty iron. The lightly textured finish provides a subtle sandpaper feel, giving the armor an authentic, rugged aesthetic.
This unique finish absorbs light, lending the armor a darker, more subdued appearance in lower lighting conditions, enhancing its understated elegance. As part of our meticulous painting process, the texture and shade of the Brown Suna finish may vary slightly between orders, making each piece a truly one-of-a-kind expression of samurai heritage.
For those seeking an armor finish that embodies both tradition and timeless sophistication, Brown Suna is an exceptional choice.
Our Crimson Glossy finish is a luxurious, deep red with a radiant shine, reminiscent of shu urushi nuri—the traditional red lacquer finish favored by samurai armor crafters during the Sengoku and Edo periods. This vibrant hue embodies elegance and strength, making it a perfect choice for samurai armor that demands attention and respect.
Each piece is meticulously hand-painted, ensuring a unique texture and level of shine that may vary slightly between orders, highlighting the craftsmanship behind every suit. Please note that images are for reference only, and due to monitor settings or resolution, the color tones may appear slightly different.
For those who seek a rich, polished finish that reflects the historical artistry of samurai armor, Crimson Glossy is an exceptional choice.
Our Crimson Suna paint finish captures the rugged beauty of suna (sand) with a distinct textured surface reminiscent of fine sandpaper. This unique finish absorbs light, creating a deep, non-reflective crimson hue that exudes an air of stealth and power. Perfect for samurai seeking a bold yet understated appearance, Crimson Suna enhances the raw, authentic aesthetic of traditional armor.
Due to the hand-painting process, the texture and depth of color may vary slightly between individual orders, adding a personal touch to each piece. Images are for reference only, as monitor settings or resolutions may affect the perceived color tones.
For those who value traditional craftsmanship and a finish that stands out for its tactile and visual appeal, Crimson Suna offers a striking combination of texture and timeless elegance.
Our Gold Paint embodies the opulence and prestige of a wealthy Daimyo, making it a striking choice for samurai armor. Whether used as the primary color or as an accent, the richness of this golden hue is captivating and commands attention. Its vibrant, regal tone is ideal for showcasing the armor’s intricate details and the wearer’s noble spirit.
Due to the sensitive nature of gold paint, it requires a higher level of skill and time to apply, making it one of the most refined and luxurious finishes we offer. Please note that gold paint can highlight subtle imperfections in the armor’s surface, adding to its artisanal character. Variations in tint may occur between parts of the same order, a natural outcome of the meticulous hand-painting process.
Images are provided for reference only, and slight differences in color tones may arise due to monitor settings or resolution. For those seeking to reflect wealth, power, and artistry, our Gold Paint finish is unparalleled in elegance.
Our Gold Nami paint finish lends a majestic and distinguished appearance to any yoroi, making it a perfect choice for those seeking both elegance and authenticity. Traditionally reserved for high-ranking samurai or prestigious armor, this rich gold finish features the distinctive “nami” (wave) texture, a hallmark of the renowned Kaga school of armor crafting. This intricate detail not only enhances the armor’s visual appeal but also reflects the artistry and skill synonymous with samurai heritage.
The Gold Nami finish is meticulously applied to ensure a unique and regal appearance, with slight variations in texture and tint resulting from the hand-painting process. This makes each armor set truly one-of-a-kind.
Please note that images are provided for reference, and color tones may vary due to monitor settings or resolution. Elevate your samurai armor with the Gold Nami finish, capturing the spirit of tradition and prestige.
Our Glossy Red finish is a vibrant, striking color that commands attention on and off the battlefield. Historically, bright red was a favorite among samurai who sought to embody the fearless spirit of Bushido, warriors unafraid of death and eager to embrace every opportunity for combat. This bold hue symbolized their courage, strength, and readiness to face any challenge head-on.
The Glossy Red finish is meticulously applied to ensure a brilliant shine that enhances the armor’s intricate details while reflecting the warrior’s bold personality. As with all handcrafted finishes, slight variations in tint may occur, making each suit of armor truly unique.
Please note that images are provided for reference only, and color tones may appear slightly different due to monitor settings or resolution. Embrace the spirit of the fearless samurai with the striking Glossy Red finish—perfect for those who dare to stand out and make their mark.
Our Tetsu Nami finish is inspired by the traditional Japanese technique tetsu sabiji-nuri, which replicates the natural beauty of aged iron while protecting the raw steel beneath. The name “Tetsu Nami” reflects the rugged strength of steel (tetsu) and the flowing elegance of waves (nami), symbolizing resilience and harmony—qualities deeply rooted in samurai tradition.
This finish showcases the raw texture and integrity of the steel used to craft your armor, a testament to the high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship of our katchû-shi (armor smiths). The subtle wave-like texture adds depth and character to the armor, reminiscent of Japan’s connection to the sea and its enduring warrior legacy.
Historically, tetsu sabiji-nuri was a lacquer process that allowed bare metal to resist oxidation while maintaining a raw, battle-worn appearance. This finish was favored by samurai who sought armor that reflected their unyielding spirit and practical strength on the battlefield.
Each Tetsu Nami finish is unique, with slight variations in texture and tint that ensure your armor is one of a kind. These natural nuances enhance the authenticity of the piece, making it a standout in any collection.
Embrace the heritage and artistry of samurai armor with the Tetsu Nami finish—where raw steel meets refined craftsmanship, celebrating the enduring spirit of the samurai.
Our Vermilion is a deep, lustrous red that exudes a traditional Japanese aesthetic, adding an authentic and distinguished look to your yoroi (samurai armor). This iconic color holds a profound place in Japanese history and culture, originally crafted from the powdered mineral cinnabar. Its vibrant yet elegant tone was highly prized, symbolizing wealth, prestige, and spiritual significance. Vermilion was a favored choice for temples, artwork, and armor, reflecting the timeless beauty and meticulous craftsmanship of Japan’s feudal era.
While we strive to achieve consistent quality, the nature of our traditional painting process may result in slight variations in tint between orders. Additionally, due to differences in monitor settings and resolutions, the color displayed in images may not perfectly match the final product.
Choosing Vermilion for your armor is more than a stylistic decision; it is a connection to a centuries-old tradition, embodying the spirit and resilience of the samurai.
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