Morion Helmet with Red Plume, 16th-17th Century

Morion Helmet with Red Plume, 16th-17th Century

This Morion helmet is precisely crafted with an emphasis on historical details and functionality to best match its counterparts from the Renaissance and early modern periods.

Construction and Material

The helmet's foundation is quality construction steel approximately 1.6 mm thick (equivalent to 16 gauge), ensuring its strength and durability. Individual parts are connected by both riveted and welded joints for maximum robustness. The helmet's exterior surface is polished to a high shine, while the interior is painted black, serving as corrosion protection. The characteristic shape with a high comb and wide brim provided protection from overhead blows and falling objects.

Internal Comfort and Adjustment

Inside the helmet, there is a comfortable, adjustable liner made of genuine leather, which allows for adaptation to various head sizes and enhances wearing comfort. Segmented, riveted cheek pieces attached to leather straps ensure a secure fit on the head. These cheek pieces protect the face and are finished with a sturdy leather chin strap fastened with a solid brass buckle.

Striking Plume

Included in the package is an eye-catching red plume made of real feathers. This plume, approximately 26.5 cm long, simply inserts into a special socket (holder) fixed at the rear of the helmet, adding to the overall grandeur and period accuracy.

Who Wore the Morion and How Can You Use It?

The Morion-type helmet is inextricably linked with European armies of the 16th and 17th centuries, made most famous by Spanish foot soldiers.

Historical Use

Morions were primarily worn by foot soldiers, including the famous Spanish conquistadors during the conquest of the New World, and also by members of the Spanish Tercios – elite infantry units that dominated European battlefields. They were worn by musketeers, pikemen, and halberdiers. Due to their relatively low cost and good protective qualities, they became standard equipment for many European armies of the time, including troops in England during the Elizabethan and Stuart eras.

Tips for You

This Morion helmet replica is ideal for:

• Reenactment and Historical Events: Perfectly complements your costume of a Spanish soldier, conquistador, or city guard from the 16th and 17th centuries.
• LARP (Live Action Role Play): Gives your character an authentic and imposing look. The 1.6mm steel thickness provides a good level of protection for common LARP activities.
• Costumes and Theatre: A perfect accessory for theatrical performances, film shoots, or themed parties.
• Collectibles and Decoration: An impressive piece for your collection of historical armour or as unique interior decoration.

For full-contact historical sword fighting, a greater steel thickness (e.g., 14 gauge) is generally recommended; however, for typical theatrical use and LARP where rules permit 16 gauge, this helmet is suitable.

Interesting Fact from History: Symbol of the Conquerors

The characteristic high comb of the Morion helmet (also called a "crista") was not just ornamental. It is believed that its primary purpose was to reinforce the skull structure of the helmet and also to help deflect blows aimed at the head. The Morion became such an iconic symbol of the Spanish conquistadors that it is still often depicted in art and popular culture today as an emblem of Spanish expansion in the 16th century.

Technical Specifications

• Helmet Type: Morion
• Material: Construction Steel approx. 1.6 mm (16 gauge)
• Finish: Polished steel, interior blackened
• Liner: Adjustable, leather
• Cheek Pieces: Segmented, steel, riveted on leather
• Fastening: Leather strap with brass buckle
• Plume: Red, real feathers, detachable
• Overall Helmet Height: approx. 33 cm
• Plume Length: approx. 26.5 cm
• Internal Width (ear to ear): approx. 17 cm
• Internal Circumference of Helmet Bowl: approx. 68 cm
• Recommended for Head Circumference: approx. 58-62 cm (adjustable with liner and potential use of additional padding)
• Length of Plating on Cheek Piece: approx. 12 cm
• Weight: approx. 2800 g (6.17 lbs)
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®

Caring for Your New Helmet

To ensure your Morion helmet maintains its beauty and functionality for a long time, please pay attention to the following recommendations:

Steel Parts

After each use, especially if the helmet has been exposed to moisture (rain, sweat), dry it carefully with a cloth. To prevent corrosion, regularly treat the external and internal steel surfaces with a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol, or other mineral or silicone oil). Avoid prolonged contact with acidic substances.

Leather Liner and Straps

Keep the leather dry. From time to time, you can treat the leather parts with a leather care product (conditioner, balm) to keep them supple and prevent cracking. Avoid soaking.

Feather Plume

Store the plume carefully to avoid crushing or breaking the feathers. Protect it from moisture and dust. If not in use, it is ideal to remove it from the helmet and store it separately in a dry and safe place.

Storage

When not using the helmet, store it in a dry and well-ventilated place. A helmet stand is ideal as it ensures air circulation from underneath and prevents deformation of the liner. Long-term storage in a humid environment can lead to steel corrosion and leather damage.