07-07-2008, 08:20 AM
Segmentata was phased out around the same time that the state took over the manufacture of armour. It is possible that mass production techniques redcued the cost of masil to the pioibnt that there was no longer any need for segmentata. Especially when you consider all the other benefits that mail has over segmentata:
It required no custom-fitting - a few sizes stored in an arsenal would fit the vast majority of recruits.
It required less ongoing maintenance, less tools, and way fewer spare parts.
If offered better coverage - segmentata does nothing to protect the stomach, groin, armpits, etc.
It was more comfortable
It had a longer lifespan - being able to serve many more successive recruits.
It required no custom-fitting - a few sizes stored in an arsenal would fit the vast majority of recruits.
It required less ongoing maintenance, less tools, and way fewer spare parts.
If offered better coverage - segmentata does nothing to protect the stomach, groin, armpits, etc.
It was more comfortable
It had a longer lifespan - being able to serve many more successive recruits.
Author: Bronze Age Military Equipment, Pen & Sword Books