Chōchin-Kabuto

The Chōchin-Kabuto (提灯兜, "Lantern Helmet") is a protective weapon and helmet from Japan.

The Chōchin-Kabuto is typically made of steel. The forms and designs of this helmet vary. One distinctive feature of this type of Kabuto is its ability to be folded or collapsed. The armor rings are connected to each other by silk cords, allowing them to move together.

The rings gradually increase in size from the top to the lower edge of the helmet, allowing each ring to fit into the other. This makes it possible to fold the helmet for transport, saving space in the travel gear.

The helmets are sometimes equipped with a type of curtain made of fabric, chainmail, or a kind of brigandine that extends down to the shoulders. The outer surface of the helmets is often painted in various colors. They were inspired by traditional Japanese lanterns (Chōchin).

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