Steel Crusader Shield 70x47cm - Outlet

Steel Crusader Shield 70x47cm – Richard the Lionheart Replica

Appearance and Construction

This Crusader shield is a faithful replica of a typical Norman or early Gothic kite-shaped shield, which offered excellent protection to both foot soldiers and mounted warriors. The front is painted white, proudly displaying a striking red cross – the classic symbol of the Crusaders. The edges of the shield are reinforced with a metal rim, secured with sturdy rivets, enhancing its durability and authentic appearance. The reverse side reveals a solid construction, likely wooden or made from a durable material with a wood-effect finish. For comfortable and secure handling, the shield is equipped with a system of leather straps – a wide, padded strap for the forearm and a firm hand grip. Additionally, it features an adjustable leather carrying strap, allowing the shield to be worn on the back or over the shoulder.

Key Features and Technical Specifications

• Type: Crusader Shield (Norman Shield / Kite Shield)
• Total Height: 70 cm (approx. 27.5 inches)
• Width at Widest Point: 47 cm (approx. 18.5 inches)
• Material: Steel (described as "high-grade steel")
• Finish: Painted with red cross
• Handle: Leather straps for grip and forearm, adjustable carrying strap
• Hand Grip Length: approx. 13 cm (approx. 5.1 inches)
• Material Thickness at Edge (incl. rim): approx. 4.7 mm (approx. 0.18 inches)
• Weight: approx. 3.5 kg (approx. 7.7 lbs)
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®

Using Your New Shield

How You Can Use the Shield Today

This Crusader shield is ideal for a wide range of activities. It will serve you excellently for:

• LARP (Live Action Role Play) and Historical Reenactments: Complete your Crusader, knight, or medieval warrior costume and gain an edge and style in battle. A perfect LARP shield or Reenactment shield.
• Cosplay: Portray your favourite historical or fantasy character with an authentic-looking shield.
• Theatrical Performances and Film Shoots: Add historical accuracy to your scenes.
• Decoration: Display the shield in your home, study, club room, or themed restaurant to add a touch of medieval atmosphere. Ideal as a decorative shield or wall shield.
• Collections: Expand your collection of historical weapons and armour with this iconic piece.

Historical Use of the Shield

In the Middle Ages, shields like this were a crucial part of a knight's and soldier's equipment. The kite shape, popular from the 10th to the 13th century, provided protection from shoulder to knee, especially for horsemen. It protected the warrior from slashing and thrusting attacks from swords, axes, spears, as well as from arrows fired from bows and crossbows. Shields were not only defensive tools but also bore heraldic symbols that identified the knight on the battlefield and signified his allegiance and faith. The red cross on a white field was the typical emblem of the Crusaders, symbolizing their mission.

A Piece of History in Your Hands

Interesting Fact: The Shield in the Service of Richard the Lionheart

Participants of the Third Crusade (1189–1192), led by the English King Richard I, famously known as the Lionheart, could have been equipped with this very type of shield. These knights faced the perils of the Holy Land, and their shields were silent witnesses to many battles and sieges. Imagine the courage and determination of the men who fought behind similar shields for their faith and king.

Symbolism of the Crusader Shield

For the Crusaders, the shield held not only practical importance but also deep symbolic value. The cross, as the central motif, was a constant reminder of their faith and commitment. Historically, it was believed that the cross on the shield represented divine protection and favour in battle, although the Crusaders were prepared to suffer and even die for their faith, as their beliefs dictated.

Caring for Your New Shield

To keep your Crusader shield looking its best and functioning for as long as possible, give it a little care:

• Storage: Keep the shield in a dry environment to prevent corrosion of metal parts and damage to the leather straps or wooden construction.
• Cleaning: You can wipe the metal parts with a dry cloth. If necessary, lightly oil them (e.g., with gun oil or conservation oil) to prevent rust, especially if the shield is exposed to moisture. Clean painted surfaces carefully with a soft, dry, or very slightly damp cloth.
• Leather Parts: Treat the leather straps occasionally with a leather conditioner to keep them supple and prevent cracking.
• Handling: Although the shield is robust, avoid unnecessary impacts and drops outside of its intended use (e.g., during reenactment) to prevent damage to the paintwork or construction.

Quality by Lord Of Battles®

This Crusader shield is a quality branded product from the renowned company Lord Of Battles®, which specialises in manufacturing replicas of historical weapons, armour, and accessories for reenactment, LARP, and collectors. You can therefore be sure that you are acquiring a product that combines historical authenticity with modern manufacturing processes and high-quality materials.