Why haven't we properly tested MEDIEVAL JACK ARMOUR yet?

Jacks are a form of fabric armour which is mentioned in a lot of medieval texts, and were apparently able to resist blades and even arrows. Yet we've done remarkably little testing with accurate replicas. That needs to change! We also need to identify more examples in period art, because we might be looking for the wrong things. A liberal English translation from the Ordinances of Louis XI of France (1461-1483): "First they must have for the said jacks, 30, or at least 25 folds of cloth and a stag's skin; those of 30, with the stag's skin, being the best. The cloth should have been worn and rendered flexible, which is best for this purpose, and these jacks should be made in four quarters. The sleeves should be as strong as the body, with the exception of the leather, and the arm-hole of the sleeve must be large, the arm-holes being placed near the collar, not on the bone of the shoulder, that it may be broad under the armpit and full under the arm, sufficiently ample and large on the sides below. The collar should be like the rest of the jack, but not too high behind, to allow room for the sallet [to move]. The jack should be laced up the front, and underneath this opening must be a hanging piece/flap, of the same strength as the jack itself. Thus the jack will be secure and effective, provided that there be a doublet without sleeves or collar [underneath], of two folds of cloth, that shall be only four fingers broad on the shoulder; to which shall be attached the chausses [either hose or leg armour]. Thus shall the wearer 'float', as it were, within his jack and be at his ease; for never have been seen half a dozen men killed by stabs or arrow wounds in such jacks, particularly if they be troops accustomed to fighting." ▼3 extra EXCLUSIVE videos each month on PATREON, which make this channel possible:   / scholagladiatoria   ▼Facebook & Twitter updates, info, memes and fun:   / historicalfencing     / scholagladiato1   ▼Schola Gladiatoria HEMA - sword fighting classes in the UK: https://www.swordfightinglondon.com ▼Matt Easton's website & Pinterest: https://www.matt-easton.co.uk/ https://www.pinterest.co.uk/matt_east... ▼Easton Antique Arms - antique swords for sale: https://www.antique-swords.co.uk #medieval #history #armor