- Traditionally Handcrafted
- Customizable
- Shipped Direct From The Armory
- Best Price Guarantee
- World wide delivery
Welcome to Samurai-Armor.com, your trusted source for Samurai Armor, Samurai Clothing, and Accessories. Whether you’re gearing up for martial arts training, stepping into the world of samurai cosplay, or preparing for an epic samurai LARP adventure, we’re here to help you embrace the spirit of a true Modern Warrior.
Our team at Samurai-Armor.com is dedicated to guiding you on your journey into the legacy of the samurai. If you have questions about choosing the right armor, finding historically inspired samurai attire, or selecting the perfect accessory to complete your look, we’re happy to assist. From practical advice for martial artists to tips for cosplay enthusiasts, we’ve got you covered.
If the answer to your question isn’t in our FAQ, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to provide expert support and ensure you find exactly what you need to ignite your warrior spirit. Start your samurai journey today and let us help you honor the traditions of Japan’s legendary warriors.
All of our armor is crafted in the traditional iron plating (lames) fashion, reflecting the craftsmanship of historical samurai armor. To meet the diverse needs and budgets of our clients, we offer our armors in three distinct quality classes: Kachi, Gashira, and Taisho. Here’s how they differ:
Our Kachi Class armor is designed to be affordable while maintaining the signature look and feel of samurai armor. This entry-level class uses modern materials and techniques, such as:
While visually stunning, these armors are not historically accurate due to the use of synthetic materials and contemporary crafting methods. They are perfect for:
The Gashira Class strikes a balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern enhancements. These armors feature:
This class is ideal for clients looking for a more authentic appearance while keeping costs manageable. It appeals to:
The Taisho Class represents the pinnacle of our craftsmanship and historical accuracy. Each suit in this series is:
These armors are perfect for:
No matter which class you choose, every suit is handcrafted with care and designed to honor the samurai tradition. Let us know your needs, and we’ll help you select the armor that best fits your journey.
At Iron Mountain Armory, we strive to honor the traditions of Japanese armor craftsmanship while embracing modern techniques to make our creations accessible and functional for all enthusiasts. Here’s a breakdown of how our armor reflects the rich history of samurai craftsmanship:
Our armors are crafted in the style of the Edo period (1603–1868), following the traditions of the katchû-shi (Japanese armorer). Many of our models are based on Tosei-gusoku (“modern armor”) designs, which emerged in the mid-1500s during the Warring States period (Sengoku Jidai). This era saw significant advancements in armor design, with single steel plates (ita-mono) crafted to mimic earlier kozane (scale) styles. These innovations were influenced by European contact, introducing new materials, firearms, and production techniques that reshaped samurai warfare and armor design.
We blend traditional craftsmanship with modern methods to balance authenticity, durability, and affordability. Here’s how our armor classes differ:
Kachi Class (“Basic Series”):
Gashira Class (“Standard Series”):
Taisho Class (“Elite Series”):
To ensure durability and affordability, we use modern techniques like powder coating instead of traditional urushi lacquer. While urushi is a traditional, stunning finish, its application is expensive, and repairs can be challenging due to the decline of skilled artisans. However, we are actively exploring ways to offer urushi as an optional upgrade in the future.
By offering these classes, we ensure there’s an armor for everyone, from historical purists to modern-day warriors. If you’re unsure which class suits you best, feel free to reach out—we’re here to guide you on your journey!
The primary difference between our Gendai armor (modern reproductions) and historical samurai armor lies in the materials, crafting techniques, and practicality for modern use. Here’s an overview of how they compare:
Materials:
Crafting Techniques:
Challenges:
Durability and Maintenance:
Materials:
Crafting Techniques:
Practicality:
While our standard Gendai armor balances tradition and modernity, we can craft hon-kozane (true scale) armor resembling the 15th-century designs for those seeking greater historical accuracy. However, the time and cost reflect the intricacy of these techniques, and we work closely with clients to meet their needs and budget.
Our reproductions are designed to honor the samurai tradition while making these timeless pieces more practical and accessible for modern collectors, martial artists, and enthusiasts.
A suit of Samurai Armor (yoroi) is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, with each part designed for a specific purpose. To honor the tradition and attention to detail in our products, we use the original Japanese names for these parts. While it may seem challenging at first, this approach ensures accuracy and avoids confusion.
Below is a breakdown of the key parts of Samurai Armor, along with their Japanese names and English translations:
Kabuto (Helmet):
Protects the head, often featuring a crest (maedate) for identification and decoration. Includes a neck guard (shikoro) for additional defense.
Menpo (Face Mask):
Covers and protects the face, sometimes with an attached throat guard (yodare-kake).
Do (Cuirass/Chest Armor):
The primary torso protection.
Kote (Armored Sleeves):
Protects the arms with chainmail or small plates sewn onto fabric.
Sode (Shoulder Guards):
Large rectangular plates designed to shield the shoulders.
Haidate (Thigh Guards):
Protects the upper legs with metal plates attached to cloth for flexibility.
Suneate (Shin Guards):
Covers the shins, often made of iron plates or chainmail.
Tare (Waist Protector):
A series of small, overlapping plates that shield the waist and hips.
Kusazuri (Hanging Plates):
Suspended from the cuirass to protect the thighs and lower abdomen.
For a visual guide to the parts of Samurai Armor, please refer to the detailed diagram below. Each part is labeled with its Japanese name and English translation.
For an extensive glossary of terms, including pronunciation tips, click here.
At Iron Mountain Armory, we take pride in blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, helping keep the spirit of the Samurai alive. Let us know if you have further questions!
Yes, our Samurai Armor is very real and fully wearable, but it also looks stunning as a display piece!
Our armor is designed to replicate the functionality and craftsmanship of historical Samurai Armor, making it suitable for various uses, such as:
While our armor is fully functional, it is not intended for use in live combat. Each suit balances historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and modern materials to ensure durability and affordability.
Whether you’re looking for an authentic wearable piece or an eye-catching display, our Samurai Armor is built to meet your needs!
Click Here to watch this Youtube short video to see our armor on display and in action.
Yes, indeed, we rent Samurai Armor!
Please contact us for specific details. Our Samurai Armor Rental standards are quite basic (and can vary depending on the model and accessories):
For more details and availability, please contact us. Be sure to let us know:
No, our armor is handcrafted in China. The workers at Iron Mountain Armory operate under the guidance of, or have been trained by, Japanese katchû-shi (armor smiths) or artisans with extensive experience crafting armor since 2003.
Until 2011, the armory exclusively produced armor for the Japanese market. In 2011, Iron Mountain Armory began offering direct sales to the European market. By 2014, the armory had become the largest producer of Samurai Armor and accessories worldwide.
Iron Mountain Armory is renowned for its traditional armor designs, excellent quality, and economical cost structure, making Samurai Armor more accessible to enthusiasts around the globe.
LARP:
As of 2018, all of Iron Mountain Armory’s samurai armor, clothing, and accessories meet the standards and guidelines required for LARP events. Designed with durability and comfort in mind, our armor provides an authentic look while standing up to the demands of live-action roleplay.
SCA:
Unfortunately, as of 2018, none of Iron Mountain Armory’s armor meets the minimum standards for SCA combat. The thickest steel we use is 18 gauge, and while some parts of our armor are laminated for additional thickness, it still does not satisfy all of SCA’s safety requirements. Our armor is ideal for display, light sparring, or reenactments that do not require SCA-level protection.
Re-enactment:
The suitability of our samurai armor for reenactments depends on the specific requirements of your group. To provide a general guide on historical accuracy in design and materials, we’ve rated our armor classes as follows:
For specific event guidelines or questions about how our armor suits your needs, feel free to contact us directly!
At Iron Mountain Armory, we maintain a strict MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) policy, ensuring that our products are sold at no more than a 10% discount from the retail price listed on our official website. If you find our armor advertised for less, it’s likely for one of the following reasons:
Not Authentic IMA Armor:
The seller may be offering imitation products that mimic the appearance of Iron Mountain Armory armor but lack the craftsmanship, materials, and durability of the authentic pieces. These knockoffs often cut corners, using inferior synthetic materials, basic lacing, and plates that easily rust, fray, or break over time.
Local Market Quality:
Some sellers in China may list local market-grade armor made for cost-conscious buyers in their region. This economy-grade armor lacks the rust protection, high-quality materials, and rigorous quality control (QC) standards required for our international market. While it might appear similar at first glance, these suits are not built to last and will likely fail with regular use.
Reselling Pre-Owned Items:
The armor could be pre-owned or not maintained properly, further diminishing its value and durability.
Avoid the Pitfalls of Inferior Armor
Knockoff armor often doesn’t include essential items like yoroi bitsu (armor box), display stands, or inner linings. Many of these sellers operate under names like “lastarmor,” “mensarmor,” and others, stealing our photos and descriptions to mislead buyers. They may even offer “refunds” that require you to pay exorbitant return shipping fees—leaving you frustrated and out of pocket.
Protect Your Investment
Authentic Iron Mountain Armory armor is available only through our authorized representatives in the U.S., U.K., Japan, Germany, Switzerland, the Philippines, Colombia, and Australia. We take pride in crafting samurai armor that stands the test of time, using a blend of traditional techniques and modern durability.
If you’re unsure about the authenticity of an item or seller, email us or visit IronMountainArmory.com. We’re happy to verify legitimacy and even share comparison photos from buyers who were disappointed with imitation pieces. Like a $2,000 Prada bag advertised for $180, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Don’t let knockoffs tarnish your samurai spirit—choose authentic armor for true quality, durability, and historical accuracy.
At Iron Mountain Armory, we craft samurai armor with strength, resilience, and historical authenticity in mind—designed to honor the warriors of old while empowering Modern Warriors today.
Our armor features 18-gauge cold-rolled steel plating for critical sections, providing robust protection without sacrificing mobility. For the menpo (samurai mask), we use a slightly lighter 20-gauge cold-rolled steel, striking the perfect balance between durability and comfort. This steel thickness was a hallmark of samurai armor during the late 1500s, a time when European steel was introduced to Japan’s Daimyo and their master armorers embraced its use.
Why 18-gauge? It’s tough enough to withstand sword strikes and flexible enough to absorb shock, ensuring superior performance in both historical and modern scenarios. You can even find videos online showcasing our armor being tested in action—proving its capability time and time again.
What surprises most warriors is how lightweight yet incredibly strong our samurai armor is. Crafted with precision, it’s built to serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the samurai, offering unparalleled protection for martial artists, reenactors, and anyone seeking to embody the way of the warrior.
When you wear our armor, you’re not just wearing steel—you’re donning a legacy of strength, honor, and courage. Are you ready to step into your role as a Modern Warrior?
At Iron Mountain Armory, every piece of samurai armor is crafted to embody the strength, honor, and spirit of the samurai—designed for Modern Warriors who demand both authenticity and durability. The primary armor components (Kabuto, Sode, Do, Kote, Haidate, and Suneate) are forged from high-quality 18-gauge cold-rolled steel, with Menpo typically crafted from lighter .8 mm cold-rolled steel.
Each chest and back plate is meticulously formed from individual steel lames, riveted and, depending on the model, spot-welded for added durability. Beyond steel, we use genuine leather, hemp, cotton, linen, animal hair, copper, brass, horn, and art silk or rayon blends (brocade) to complete the intricate details—carefully chosen to reflect historical accuracy and quality.
For specific models and classes, we occasionally incorporate modern materials to enhance safety, improve durability, or offer more economical options, as seen in our Kachi Class armor. These thoughtful additions ensure that your armor meets the highest standards for both form and function.
The materials and techniques used vary across our armor classes, reflecting different levels of detail, customization, and historical authenticity. We invite you to review our FAQ for more insights into the quality ranges offered.
Whether you seek the rugged simplicity of a battlefield suit or the refined elegance of a noble’s armor, our materials are selected to honor the legacy of the samurai while serving the warriors of today. Let your armor be a symbol of your warrior spirit.
Absolutely! Each suit of our samurai armor is designed to fit the “average” warrior—an adult around 5’7″ (170 cm) and 170 lbs (77 kg), with a 40.5″ (103 cm) chest. Our standard armors can adjust for heights between 5’5″ to 5’10” and chest sizes from 39″ to 43″. While it may not fit like a tailored suit, it will fit you well, and like the samurai of old, you’ll adapt to wearing it with pride. Simple adjustments, like swapping the pin hinge for laces, can tweak the fit to your liking. Once you don your armor, you’ll feel ready to command your battlefield—whether it’s a dojo, stage, or LARP field.
Yes, and it’s a truly exhilarating experience! Share your measurements, and our skilled katchû-shi (armorers) will craft a suit that reflects your unique warrior spirit. While custom sizing ensures a better fit, remember that samurai armor is made to be functional and versatile, so minor differences are natural. After all, adapting to your armor is part of becoming a modern warrior.
Absolutely! We offer DIY samurai armor parts and accessories for those who want to forge their own legacy piece by piece. Don’t see the part you need? Just ask! Customizing and finishing your own armor isn’t just personal—it’s fun, rewarding, and a true rite of passage for any modern samurai.
Yes, personalizing your armor is a great way to embody your warrior identity! Email or message us your design before ordering to confirm feasibility, and simply reply to your confirmation email with the logo you’d like added. It’s all about making your armor uniquely yours.
Of course! Whether you’re inspired by samurai, shinobi, or other Asian warriors, we’re here to bring your vision to life. Send us details, photos, or links, and let’s create something as bold and unique as your warrior spirit.
Unleash your creativity, embody the resilience of the samurai, and step into the legacy of the warrior. Whether you’re customizing, crafting, or building your own, your armor will be a testament to your strength, honor, and individuality. Your journey starts now!
Donning samurai armor is more than a process; it’s a ritual that connects you to centuries of tradition. While samurai armor is modular and can be worn in different ways, there is a traditional “official” method that ensures proper fit, mobility, and authenticity.
To guide you, we’ve included a detailed visual illustration based on trusted historical sources, depicting each step in the correct order. This method starts from the bottom and works upward, ensuring that every piece fits securely and layers correctly, just as a samurai would have prepared for battle.
Whether you’re preparing for martial arts training, a reenactment, or a display, following these steps will ensure your armor looks and feels as it was intended—fit for a true warrior. Embrace the legacy and wear your yoroi with pride!
Displaying your samurai armor properly is essential to showcasing its craftsmanship and honoring its historical significance. The most traditional and impressive way to display your samurai armor is atop a yoroi bitsu (armor storage box), which doubles as a display stand.
Our yoroi bitsu storage boxes are included with Gashira, Taisho, and Daimyo suits and are available as an optional add-on for Kachi suits or for purchase separately. Each yoroi bitsu comes with a sturdy wooden stand specifically designed to support and present your armor with pride and authenticity.
To help you create the perfect display, we’ve provided step-by-step instructions on how to assemble and present your yoroi just as a true samurai would. Whether for your home, office, or dojo, a properly displayed suit of samurai armor is sure to command attention and respect. Embrace the spirit of the samurai and let your armor tell its story!
Our samurai clothing is meticulously crafted to honor the authenticity of Japan’s feudal era. From materials to design, we strive to replicate the traditional attire worn by samurai, incorporating historical patterns, cuts, and details. While some modern adjustments are made for comfort and durability, our clothing remains faithful to its historical roots, offering a perfect blend of tradition and functionality.
Absolutely! Many of our samurai clothing items can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you want a specific color, pattern, or size adjustment, we’ll work with you to create a piece that matches your unique vision. Please contact us before ordering to discuss customization options.
Yes! Adding a mon to your samurai clothing is a great way to personalize your attire and connect with history. Simply send us your desired design or choose from available options. Please note that smaller or intricate details may have limitations. Contact us to confirm feasibility.
Most of our samurai clothing is designed to fit a range of sizes, but we also offer custom tailoring. By providing your measurements during checkout, we can ensure a better fit. Keep in mind that traditional Japanese attire often has a looser, flowing style, which allows for easy adjustment and comfort.
We use a mix of traditional and modern materials to balance historical accuracy with practicality. For instance, natural fabrics like cotton and hemp are used for authenticity, while art silk or rayon may be incorporated for added durability and ease of care. The materials vary depending on the clothing piece and customization preferences.
Yes! Our samurai clothing is designed for both traditional aesthetics and modern use. Whether you’re practicing kenjutsu, performing on stage, or participating in historical reenactments, our clothing is durable and functional while staying true to the samurai legacy.
Absolutely! We provide full sets of samurai attire, including kimono, hakama, haori, and juban. You can purchase these items individually or as part of a complete outfit to create a cohesive look. Perfect for martial arts demonstrations, cosplay, or simply embracing the spirit of the samurai in style.
Let us help you step into the elegance and tradition of samurai clothing, crafted to honor the warriors of the past and inspire the Modern Warrior within you.
Absolutely! Our samurai clothing is designed with historical authenticity and functionality in mind, making it an excellent choice for historical reenactments, cultural demonstrations, and SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism) events.
We use historically accurate materials such as hemp, linen, and cotton, as well as artificial silk (art. silk) for specific designs, ensuring that our garments reflect the textures and styles worn by samurai of feudal Japan. Each piece, from samurai kimono to hakama and haori, is crafted with the precision and care needed to honor the era it represents.
While our clothing is historically inspired, it is also robust and durable, suitable for active use in martial arts, reenactment battles, or theatrical performances. Please note that if your reenactment group or SCA event has specific guidelines or requirements, we recommend confirming the details to ensure full compliance with their standards.
If you have any questions about the materials, designs, or historical references used in our clothing, feel free to contact us directly. We’re always happy to provide additional details or customization options to meet your needs.
Each product description includes the typical crafting time for that specific item. If you’ve ordered multiple products, the item with the longest crafting time will determine the preparation time for your full order. Please note that all orders are scheduled on a first-come, first-serve basis, and crafting times can be affected by material back-orders or a high volume of orders.
We are a dedicated team of artisans who take pride in handcrafting every piece, but sometimes demand can exceed our capacity. Rest assured, we’ll keep you updated on the status of your order.
Need your order by a specific date? Please contact us before placing your order to ensure we can meet your deadline.
We collaborate with skilled artisans worldwide, with most of our products crafted in China. Depending on your selected shipping method, your items may ship directly from the crafter or through one of our regional warehouses in the USA, Europe, or South America. This process helps keep shipping costs economical and reduces environmental impact by minimizing excessive transport.
Yes, we ship worldwide! Most orders are shipped directly from the armory via FedEx or Airmail Service. To view shipping costs for your country, simply add your desired items to the cart, click “Calculate Shipping,” and enter your location details.
Yes, all packages are fully insured, covering damages or loss during transit. In the rare event of damage, simply provide us with photos of the package (outside and inside), packing materials, and the damaged item, along with a description of the issue. We’ll handle the claim directly with the carrier to save you the hassle. During this process, you may choose between a replacement or refund.
We work with trusted professional carriers, but accidents can occasionally happen. Rest assured, we’re here to make the experience as stress-free as possible, from order to delivery.
Yes, taxes, customs fees, and handling fees are included in the final price, listed as a separate line item labeled “h-tax” during checkout. Since we ship factory direct, VAT is pre-charged alongside a handling fee.
To get detailed shipping costs, add your items to the cart, click “Calculate Shipping,” and follow the prompts. You can view shipping options, adjust your cart, and proceed with checkout using your preferred payment method.
Do you have further questions? If so, feel free to Contact Us using the form below, and one of our friendly staff will respond to you as soon as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!
Our website is currently being remodeled to serve you better and will be launching soon with exciting updates! In the meantime, please click the link below to continue shopping on our current site. We appreciate your patience and support!
