Not even useful for parts. Display use only.

Gauntlets are one of those things that if you want a good pair, you have to invest the money. I don't know of any discount or moderately priced gauntlets that function like you want them to. Most people go down the road of trying various inexpensive gauntlets, get frustrated, and wind up investing in a good pair in the end. Of course, this means you've essentially spent twice as much money in a quest to save money.

I met with Jeff Wasson back in May for measurements and casts on a 14th c. harness, and tried on a pair of his gauntlets. I immediately fell in love with them, and had him take some measurements just in case. Needless to say, by the time I got back home I had added a pair to my order. I have other less expensive gauntlets and none of them provide the mobility, protection and comfort of a real pair of custom gauntlets. My advice, bite the bullet and invest in a good set that will last a long time and provide exactly what you're looking for.

Thanks for the insights!

Have any of you gotten the Crimson Forge Armory gauntlets? I worked out the options I would choose and they come in at under $500.00 which seems reasonable for something made to order. Jeff's stuff IS beautiful but I won't be spending upwards of 1000.00 to 1500.00 for gauntlets. Don't get me wrong, if I was able too I would, I'm just not in that tax bracket.

Does anyone have experience with gauntlets around $500.00 ? I am looking for historical steel fencing purposes. Ideally I would like a pair of hourglass finger gauntlets. Although the half mittens on Jeff's site seen here http://www.wassonartistry.com/images/armor/gauntlets/IMG_1361.JPG
They look about perfect as far as protection and mobility.