Chain mail consists of thousands of interlocking metal rings worn over a padded garment to provide dependable protection against weapons and battlefield hazards. Durable, repairable, and less expensive than plate armor, it remains one of the most widely used forms of heavy armor throughout Faerûn. Professional soldiers, mercenaries, city guards, and adventurers frequently rely upon chain mail as a balance between protection, mobility, and cost.
Chain mail is commonly worn by professional warriors, guards, mercenaries, and adventurers who require substantial protection in combat. Its durability and widespread availability make it a standard choice for military forces and armed organizations throughout the Realms.
| Type | Trade Category | Availability | License Tier | Source Cost | Wholesale Price | Base Price | Premium Price | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armor And Shields | Weapons & Armor | Uncommon | 2 | 50gp | 62gp | 75gp | 115gp | 55 lb |
Production Stage: Finished Good
Item Roles: Armor, Equipment, Trade Good
Production Method: Smithing
Chain mail requires skilled armorers, quality iron or steel, and substantial labor to produce. While commonly available in major cities, military centers, and dwarven strongholds, complete suits are less frequently found in remote settlements and frontier communities.
Export Locations: Cormyr, Amn, Mirabar
Premium Markets: Waterdeep, Athkatla, Suzail
Exotic Markets: Icewind Dale, Chult, Damara
Exotic Market Notes
Icewind Dale: Heavy armor is difficult to manufacture locally, creating steady demand for imported military equipment.
Chult: Skilled armorers are uncommon, and imported armor commands strong prices among adventurers, mercenaries, and expedition leaders.
Damara: Frequent border conflicts and monster threats support reliable demand for imported armor and military supplies.
Common Buyers: Soldiers, mercenaries, city guards, adventurers, caravan guards, military officers
Common Producers: Armorers, dwarven forges, military foundries, guild workshops, blacksmiths
Profit Potential: Minimal
Chain mail should be stored in dry conditions and regularly oiled to prevent rust and corrosion. Long-term storage often includes protective wrappings, armory racks, or sealed chests.
Transport Risks: Low
Storage Difficulty: Moderate
Spoilage Risks: None
Inspection Frequency: Occasional
Smuggling Appeal: Low
Regulation Level: Low
Chain mail occupies an important position between inexpensive armor and elite military equipment. Its durability, proven battlefield performance, and broad user base create steady demand across Faerûn. Merchants frequently sell chain mail to militias, mercenary companies, military organizations, and adventurers seeking reliable protection without the expense of plate armor.
| Tier | Description |
|---|---|
0 - Open |
This item may be freely bought, sold, transported, and stored without special permits or registration. Open Trade goods form the foundation of everyday commerce and are rarely subject to inspection beyond normal taxation. |
1 - Registered |
This item is legal to trade but may be subject to routine taxation, record-keeping, or inspection when transported in commercial quantities. Merchants conducting regular business in these goods are often expected to maintain a recognized trade registration. |
2 - Controlled |
This item is considered hazardous, specialized, or otherwise regulated. Merchants may be required to obtain a trade license, maintain records of sale, or submit shipments for inspection. Bulk transport is often monitored by guilds, city authorities, or trade officials. |
3 - Restricted |
This item possesses significant economic, strategic, or industrial value. Trade is limited to approved merchants, guild members, chartered companies, or licensed organizations. Unauthorized possession or transport may result in confiscation, fines, or suspension of trade privileges. |
4 - Chartered |
This item is subject to monopolies, exclusive trade agreements, state control, or powerful guild charters. Production, transport, and sale are closely regulated. Access is typically restricted to organizations operating under special contracts, noble grants, or government authorization. |
5 - Prohibited |
This item is illegal to produce, possess, transport, or sell within most jurisdictions. Exceptions are rare and generally require direct authorization from ruling authorities. Violations often carry severe penalties, including imprisonment, asset seizure, exile, or execution. |