Cabasset circa 1600

[Philip]

Originally Posted by Lansquenet59

Hi guys,

Here is a cabasset from the early 17th century, it has a crest and is made in two parts. It is an unattractive model, but one that I find very interesting. This type of helmet had to exist in large numbers to equip the infantry. And ultimately very few have come down to us.

Not a work of art, but as you say quite important from a functional standpoint. Munition-quality equipment like this had to be both sturdy to protect the soldier wearing it, and procurable in sufficient quantity and at affordable price for the state. Considering the frequency of wars, and the tendency of old helmets to be repurposed into things like buckets and basins, it's no wonder that they are scarce today.

Question: Is it possible to measure the thickness of the metal at and around the top, as opposed to the brim or lower round the sides? Noticeable difference between those regions, or uniform thickness? Am interested to know if the workshop made an allowance for thicker iron in the more crucial areas.