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A pic of the buckle slots on my newest arms for comparison. Not happy with how far back from the edge I had to put the slots to be able to crank the buckles down. Any suggestions?

Use smaller buckles?

Ernst wrote:Use smaller buckles?

I'd think that is a good solution. Some of the originals I/we have handled at Wades are for fairly small straps. The repros I copied for my elbows were for 1/2" strapping. Doesn't really have to be a big buckle there. Just keeping the vambrace closed.

The buckles currently on there look wider than necessary for the thickness of strap attaching them to the body. I had the same problem when I used them. A straighter wall design would reduce their visual bulk. Also roller buckles are period at least for the 16th century. That would help with the strapping effort. If the tongue holes are oval they are easier to get the tongue into, as well.

Might also suggest a spectacle style buckle so that it has its own built in keeper. Or cut slots in the leather behind the buckle mount to tuck the strap end into. No idea if that technique can be documented in leather armour or not.

Thorthor has some very nice castings for buckles that you might find fit your application.

http://www.thorthorshammer.com/bucklepage.htm

The current buckles are only for an 11 mm ~ 1/2" strap. If I go much narrower, the leather is more likely to rip.

The issue is probably that the buckles aren't the perfect shape for this application. I have to roll with it this time, but I'll try to pick out something better for my next set.