Talhoffer Fencing Buckler, 15th Century Style - Outlet
2xEnter the arena with a buckler that bears the name of one of the greatest fencing masters in history—Hans Talhoffer. This is no ordinary fist-shield. Its aggressive, eight-lobed design with sharp points is not merely for show; it is a direct reference to the brutally effective combat techniques of the 15th century. Every detail is designed for active combat—for parrying, binding, and above all, for unexpected offensive actions that can turn the tide of a duel. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Talhoffer Fencing Buckler, 15th Century Style
Construction Inspired by History
This buckler, faithful to the illustrations in Talhoffer's fencing manuals, boasts a unique eight-pointed construction. It is cleverly crafted from 1.6 mm (16-gauge) steel plate, but the central, deep boss, which absorbs the most impact, is reinforced to an exceptionally durable 2.0 mm (14-gauge). This combination ensures excellent strength while maintaining a manageable weight. The individual lobes and points are designed to concentrate the force of a blow into a small area. A sturdy, all-steel D-shaped handle is welded firmly to the back, guaranteeing an uncompromising grip.
Two Finishes to Choose From
Choose the version that best suits your style:
- Polished Steel: An elegant, shiny finish that stands out in tournaments and collections.
- Blackened Finish: A rugged, matte-black look that is practical and evokes the atmosphere of real combat.
Detailed Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value (Metric) | Value (Imperial) |
|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Carbon Steel (1.6 mm / 16-Gauge) | |
| Boss Material | Carbon Steel (2.0 mm / 14-Gauge) | |
| Overall Height (A) | approx. 39.5 cm | approx. 15.5 in |
| Overall Width (D) | approx. 27 cm | approx. 10.6 in |
| Handle Length (C) | approx. 10 cm | approx. 4 in |
| Weight | approx. 1.5 kg | approx. 3.3 lbs |
How to Use Your Buckler
This specialized buckler is intended for all who are serious about historical combat:
- HEMA and German School of Fencing: A must-have for anyone studying Talhoffer's techniques and combat with sword and buckler.
- 15th Century Reenactment: A perfect and historically accurate accessory for a German mercenary or duelist impression.
- LARP: Ideal for characters like duelists, fencers, and assassins who favour speed and cunning.
Important Usage Notice
Thanks to its reinforced boss and robust construction, this buckler is exceptionally durable and well-suited for intensive historical fencing training. Nevertheless, it is not certified protective equipment for modern full-contact sports like HMB (buhurt).
Historical Context: Master Hans Talhoffer
Hans Talhoffer was one of the most prominent German fencing masters of the 15th century. His illustrated manuscripts (*Fechtbücher*) are among the most important sources for the study of medieval martial arts. They depict not only elegant fencing but also brutal, life-or-death combat, including wrestling, dagger fighting, and techniques for judicial duels. It was in these duels that specialized equipment, such as this buckler, was often used.
Did You Know?
The judicial duels that Talhoffer describes in detail in his manuals were a form of "trial by combat," where it was believed that God would grant victory to the party in the right. Combatants used bizarre and deadly combinations of weapons and shields, including this type of buckler, whose points could be used to trap weapons or to directly attack an opponent's unarmoured areas.
Caring for Your New Buckler
Its aggressive shape requires careful maintenance:
- Always wipe the buckler dry after use, paying special attention to the folds and corners.
- Regularly treat the steel parts with a thin layer of oil (e.g., WD-40) to prevent corrosion.
- Store the buckler in a dry place where it is not at risk of being scratched.
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