Čeština
Deutsch
14th Century Hounskull Bascinet Helmet
1x
Step into the world of the High Middle Ages with this precise replica of a bascinet helmet, whose iconic "hounskull" design dominated the battlefields of the 14th and 15th centuries. This helmet is not only a faithful reflection of historical originals from Germany and Northern Italy but also a functional addition to your knight or man-at-arms persona. Its characteristic shape with a protruding visor was engineered to effectively deflect cuts and thrusts, providing its wearer with maximum protection in the heat of battle. Further product information ...
14th Century Hounskull Bascinet Helmet
Detailed Description and Construction
This helmet is crafted from 16 gauge (approx. 1.6 mm) mild steel, with its surface polished to a smooth shine. The skull of the helmet has a pointed, ovular shape that perfectly protects the top of the head. Its most striking feature is undoubtedly the hinged visor, known as the hounskull. It is attached via a central pivot and can be secured in the closed position with a leather strap. The visor is perforated for better ventilation and features narrow eye slits measuring approximately 100 x 13 mm. Around the helmet's edge are riveted brass vervelles, used for attaching a mail aventail to protect the neck and shoulders (aventail not included). The interior is coated with black paint to prevent corrosion and is fitted with a fully adjustable fabric liner with a leather drawstring, ensuring a comfortable fit even over a padded arming cap.
How to Use This Helmet
This bascinet is an ideal choice for historical reenactment, festivals, LARP events, or as the centerpiece of your medieval armour collection. It perfectly complements the attire of a knight or a heavily armored soldier from the era of the Hundred Years' War and other conflicts of the 14th and 15th centuries.
Important Notice: While the helmet is robustly constructed, it is a historical replica. It is not certified as personal protective equipment and is not suitable for full-contact combat sports such as HMB (buhurt), Battle of the Nations, or similar activities.
Technical Specifications and Dimensions
| Parameter | Value |
| Material Thickness | approx. 1.6 mm (16 gauge) |
| Material | Mild Steel, Leather, Brass |
| Inner Circumference | approx. 68 cm / 26.8 inches (suits a padded cap) |
| Width (ear to ear) | approx. 18 cm |
| Total Height | approx. 28 cm |
| Weight | approx. 2.7 kg / 6 lbs |
The Bascinet in the Course of History
The bascinet evolved from a simple skullcap worn underneath the larger great helm. By the 14th century, it had become the primary head protection for knights. The hounskull visor variant was a revolutionary innovation. Its conical shape not only excelled at deflecting blows but also provided the wearer with more space for breathing, significantly reducing the risk of overheating and suffocation in the heat of battle.
A Historical Fun Fact
The helmet earned its "Hounskull" nickname (Hundsgugel in German) not from modern historians, but from the medieval warriors themselves. Its appearance simply reminded them of a hound's snout, showcasing our ancestors' sense of practical and sometimes biting humor.
How to Care for Your Helmet
To ensure your helmet serves you for a long time and retains its shine, give it a little care. After each use, wipe it thoroughly with a dry cloth to remove sweat and moisture. For long-term protection against rust, regularly apply a thin layer of conservation oil (such as Ballistol or another mineral oil) to both its outer and inner steel surfaces. Treat the leather straps with a leather conditioner from time to time to prevent them from hardening and cracking. Store it in a dry place.
We are here for you!
