Mail-shirt

Mail is the most effective type of armour encountered in Middle-earth at the end of the Third Age. These suits of close-fitting metal rings are created to protect from cutting and thrusting weapons. From the shining hauberks of Elven lords to the black mail of Orc-chieftains, mail armour appears in widely different qualities. Ancient coats of Dwarf-make, when found, are matchless and prized possessions.

A mail shirt is a chain garment protecting the back, chest, and abdomen of its wearer.