Armor attributed to Richard Holden | Harquebusier's Armor of Pedro II, King of Portugal (reigned 1683–1706) with Buff Coat | British, London; buff coat, European | The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Why did soldiers in the XVII century use buff coats (leather armour) instead of gambeson (padded armour)? Many people claim gambesons are cheaper and at least as protective. - Quora
![Buff coats, worn under armor by cavalry and officers, could stop a sword cut or even a musket or pistol balls | The Vintage News Buff coats, worn under armor by cavalry and officers, could stop a sword cut or even a musket or pistol balls | The Vintage News](https://www.thevintagenews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/65/2016/12/lead-856.jpg)