Hand-Finished Conical Shield Boss 16.5cm (6.5in) - 1.6mm (16 Gauge) Steel - Outlet

Hand-Finished Conical Shield Boss 16.5cm (6.5in) - 1.6mm (16 Gauge) Steel

Design and Time-Tested Durability

This shield boss boasts a conical shape, historically proven to be more resistant to denting and deformation than common domed types. It is crafted from approximately 1.6 mm (16 gauge) thick mild steel, ensuring high strength. The surface of the umbo is left unpolished and is intentionally hammered to faithfully imitate the appearance of a hand-forged product, full of the rustic character of ages past. The outer diameter of the umbo is approximately 165 mm (6.5 inches), the total depth reaches about 60 mm (2.36 inches), and the diameter of its tapered (conical) part is approximately 128 mm (5 inches).

Installation and Packaging

For easy and secure attachment to your shield, the umbo is equipped with four holes, approximately 6.7 mm in diameter. The delivery includes four corresponding rivets and washers, so you have everything needed for immediate mounting. Before packaging, each umbo has been carefully treated with a layer of conservation oil. This layer serves as a temporary protection against corrosion during transport and storage and can be easily wiped off with a dry cloth or paper towels.

Enhance Your Shield and Protection

This conical shield boss is the ideal choice for anyone building or upgrading their own historical shield.

Mounting on Your Shield

Perfectly suited for installation on Anglo-Saxon, Viking, Frankish, or other early to high medieval shields where conical bosses were common equipment.

Increase Historical Authenticity and Hand Protection

It will not only add to the historical accuracy of your shield but, more importantly, will significantly increase the protection of your hand holding the shield against direct blows.

Ideal for Reenactment, LARP, and DIY Projects

Whether you are an experienced reenactor, an enthusiastic LARPer, or simply enjoy crafting your own historical equipment, this umbo is an excellent choice for your project. It is fully functional, combining utility with the beauty of historical aesthetics.

History and Function of Shield Bosses (Umbos)

The Heart of a Warrior's Shield

The shield boss (umbo) was, for many centuries, the central and most crucial element of most European shields. It was fastened directly over the point where the warrior gripped the shield, and its primary task was to protect the hand from blows aimed at the shield's center. The umbo also reinforced the overall structure of the shield.

Advantages of the Conical Shape

The conical (cone-like) shape of the umbo, unlike a purely hemispherical one, offers a better ability to deflect the force of a blow to the sides. This makes it less susceptible to direct denting and more effectively disperses the energy of an impacting weapon, thereby increasing both hand protection and the durability of the umbo itself.

Did You Know? The Blacksmith's Art in Every Hammer Blow

Did you know that the hammered surface treatment, which on this umbo imitates a hand-forged appearance, was not just a matter of aesthetics in the medieval period? Each blow from an experienced blacksmith's hammer could slightly compact and strengthen the metal's surface, locally increasing its hardness and resilience. This "hand-forged" look thus tells a story of ancient craftsmen and warriors who relied on tools like this for survival.

Caring for Your Steel Shield Boss

This umbo is a quality branded product from Lord Of Battles®. As it is made from carbon steel, it requires proper care to maintain its appearance and functionality over time:

• Removing Conservation Oil: After unpacking, wipe off the conservation oil with a dry cloth or paper towels. If necessary, you can use an oil remover.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep the umbo dry. After each use, especially if it has come into contact with moisture (rain, sweat), dry it thoroughly.
• Rust Prevention: Regularly, and always after drying, apply a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol) to the entire surface. This is key to preventing rust.
• Storage: Store the umbo in a dry place. If not using it for an extended period, ensure it is well-oiled.

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Conical Shield Boss (Umbo)
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®
• Material: Mild Steel (Carbon Steel)
• Surface Finish: Unpolished, hammered appearance (imitating forged)
• Outer Diameter: Approx. 165 mm (approx. 6.5 inches)
• Depth (Height): Approx. 60 mm (approx. 2.36 inches)
• Diameter of Tapered Part (Base of Cone): Approx. 128 mm (approx. 5 inches)
• Material Thickness: Approx. 1.6 mm (16 gauge)
• Number of Rivet Holes: 4
• Hole Diameter: Approx. 6.7 mm
• Weight: Approx. 396 g (approx. 0.87 lbs)
• Package Contents: 1x Shield Boss, 4x Rivets, 4x Washers