In the 13th century as experimentation began with adding plates to maille armour to make a more rigid defense the first pieces made were for the elbows and knees. A heavy blow to these joints could be immediately crippling without every breaking the skin. Later bracers and greaves were added to make for a more complete defense. Our elbow copps are hand hammered and planished from 16 gauge cold rolled mild steel with a medial ridge, lined with leather with 1/4" cotton batting padding in between. They come strapped but if you would like them with eyelets to lace directly to a maille garment just let us know, we'll be happy to make the adjustment. We'd like to thank JW simpson for prompting us to make these. HAND MADE IN THE USA. We now offer a heat blued finish on this item. These can be made in steel finish ( steel rivets and buckles rather than brass) at no extra charge, just specify when ordering.