Is split leather as functional in re-enactment armour as tooling leather?

I'm asking because tooling leather is significantly more expensive and if split leather would function than that is what I have to go for. I am making a lammellar cuirass which has to be dyed as well as cured with wax. Sincerest thanks.

Absolutely not.... Split leather will not have the stiff quality you need for Armour. Not pretty but a lot of the guys I new used Carpet remnants It took the blows with out to much damage to themselves. Sorry tooling leather really is what you need I know really expensive but well worth it, but you can use scraps which you can get a lot cheaper.

My leather supply has a big bin by the pound. When you want to change your armour it will be more saleable in you re-enactment group. Have you gone that route yet... see if anyone has anything for sale?

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