Reinforced Steel Buckler Shield, 16 Inch (40.5 cm) - 14 Gauge
Master the art of sword and buckler combat with this robust, hand-forged steel shield! Crafted from heavy-duty 2mm (14 gauge) steel and measuring a versatile 16 inches in diameter, this buckler is built for action. Its classic medieval design, featuring a protective central boss and riveted cross reinforcements, makes it an essential piece for historical fencers, reenactors, and collectors. Further product information ...
Reinforced Steel Buckler Shield, 16 Inch (40.5 cm) - 14 Gauge
Detailed Product Description
This buckler is the epitome of durability and function. Its body is forged from a single piece of 2mm thick steel, giving it excellent resistance to impacts. The face is reinforced with four riveted steel straps that not only enhance its strength but also add to its authentic appearance. The dominant feature is the deep central boss, designed to effectively deflect the points and blades of swords, keeping your hand safe.
The reverse side is fitted with a sturdy steel handle featuring a comfortable wooden grip. This center-grip design allows for the quick and precise manipulation essential for buckler combat. The rim of the shield is rolled (or "pertlovaný"), increasing its overall rigidity and safety.
How You Can Use This Buckler
Thanks to its massive construction, this shield is ideal for a wide range of activities:
- Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA): Indispensable for practicing sword and buckler techniques according to historical fencing manuals (e.g., the I.33 manuscript).
- Reenactment and Living History: The perfect accessory for a medieval or Renaissance infantryman, mercenary, or duelist persona.
- LARP: A superb and durable choice for characters who rely on speed and agility.
- Decoration: An impressive and historically faithful piece for your armory, study, or club room.
Important Disclaimer: This is a fully functional shield, hand-forged from thick 14-gauge steel, making it suitable for historical fencing and reenactment. While it is built to be highly durable, we advise you to always check the specific safety regulations and weapon standards of any full-contact event (such as HMB or Buhurt) before use.
Specifications and Size
The buckler is offered in one universal, historically accurate size.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Diameter | approx. 16 in (40.5 cm) |
| Material Thickness | approx. 2 mm (14 gauge) |
| Handle Length | approx. 5.9 in (15 cm) |
| Weight | approx. 6.37 lbs (2890 g) |
The Buckler Through History
The buckler was a small, agile, fist-gripped shield that enjoyed immense popularity from the High Middle Ages through the Renaissance. It was not merely a passive defense; fencers used it actively to block, parry, bind an opponent's weapon, and even deliver direct strikes (hence the name "fist shield"). Its small size and portability made it an ideal sidearm for civilian self-defense and for soldiers in the press of battle.
A Fun Fact From History
The oldest surviving European fencing manual, known as the Royal Armouries MS I.33, dates to around 1300 and is dedicated entirely to the sophisticated art of fighting with a single-handed sword and buckler. This proves that the discipline was a highly developed martial art centuries before the heyday of the Renaissance rapier.
How to Care For Your Shield
To keep your buckler beautiful and functional for years to come, just follow a few simple rules:
- After handling, wipe the shield with a dry cloth to remove fingerprints and moisture.
- Periodically apply a thin coat of protective oil (like Ballistol or Renaissance Wax) to the steel surface.
- Store the shield in a dry place, away from excessive humidity.
- You can occasionally treat the wooden handle with linseed oil to maintain its condition.
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