Hammered & Blackened Heater Shield, 16-Gauge Steel
Are you seeking a shield that not only offers reliable protection but also tells a story? This medieval steel shield, with its authentic, hand-hammered and blackened finish, is ready to become an extension of your arm. This isn't just a smooth piece of metal, but a piece of honest craftsmanship evoking hundreds of hammer blows in the forge and the chaos of battle. Its imposing appearance and quality construction make it a true gem for any enthusiast. Further product information ...
Hammered & Blackened Heater Shield, 16-Gauge Steel
Authentic Look and Sturdy Construction
This heater shield is crafted from 1.6 mm (16-gauge) steel plate, ensuring high durability. Its front face is blackened (blued)—a traditional surface treatment that gives it a dark, matte appearance while increasing its resistance to corrosion. The overall impression is enhanced by the hand-hammered finish across the entire surface, which imitates the marks of honest smithing. The shield's edge is finished with a strong, 5 mm folded rim, which further increases its strength and safety in use.
Grip and Handling
For a firm and secure grip, a robust metal structure with a riveted wooden handle is attached to the back of the shield. Comfort and stability while wearing are further enhanced by an adjustable leather strap with a buckle, designed to secure the shield to the forearm. This combination allows for excellent maneuverability in various combat situations.
Detailed Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value (Metric) | Value (Imperial) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Lord Of Battles® | |
| Material | Steel (1.6 mm / 16-Gauge) | |
| Finish | Blackened (Blued), Hand-Hammered | |
| Overall Height | approx. 70 cm | approx. 27.6 in |
| Width | approx. 45.5 cm | approx. 17.9 in |
| Rim Thickness | approx. 5 mm | |
| Weight | approx. 3.8 kg | approx. 8.4 lbs |
How to Use Your Shield
This steel shield is an ideal choice for a wide range of activities where durability and a historical appearance are paramount, without the need for further painting:
- Historical Fencing & Reenactment: Excellent for training and battles, where it will faithfully complement your knight or mercenary armour.
- LARP and Fantasy: The dark and rugged look is perfect for characters like seasoned warriors, barbarians, or dark knights.
- Decoration: An impressive element for your home, club room, or armoury, evoking a medieval atmosphere.
Important Usage Notice
This shield is designed for use in historical reenactment and LARP. Although made from strong steel, it is not certified for full-contact sports like HMB (buhurt), where different materials and specific standards are often required.
Historical Context: The Age of Heater Shields
Heater shields were characteristic of the High Middle Ages (12th to 15th centuries). Their shape provided good protection for the torso and upper legs while allowing for relatively free movement. In addition to protection, they served as a means of identification on the battlefield thanks to painted coats of arms. A hammered surface, besides aesthetics, could also slightly aid in deflecting blows.
Fun Fact: Bluing – Protection with History
Did you know that bluing (or blackening) is a surface treatment process for steel that has been used for centuries? Not only does it give the metal an attractive dark colour, but more importantly, it creates a thin protective layer of magnetite (an iron oxide) that helps protect the steel from rust. This technique was common on both weapons and armour parts.
Caring for Your New Shield
To keep your shield in top condition for a long time:
- Keep it Dry: After each use, especially in damp conditions, wipe the shield thoroughly dry.
- Regular Oiling: While the blued surface is rust-resistant, it is still advisable to regularly treat it with a thin layer of protective oil (e.g., WD-40), especially on the edges and in any scratched areas.
- Storage: Store the shield in a dry place where it will not be mechanically damaged.
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