Hand-Made Vendel Spectacle Helmet with Steel Chainmail Aventail

Hand-Made Vendel Spectacle Helmet with Steel Chainmail Aventail

Precise handcraftsmanship and robust materials

This helmet is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. The helmet bowl is carefully riveted together from hand-beaten sections of 1.2 mm thick construction steel. The dominant feature is the striking, hand-forged spectacle face guard, which protected the warrior's face without obstructing their vision. The helmet's surface boasts an authentic, slightly rustic metal finish. Inside, the helmet is treated with a practical black coating to prevent corrosion.

Protection for the neck and shoulders is provided by the long chainmail aventail (or camail), reaching a length of 29 cm. It's woven from sturdy, simple closed (butted) steel rings with an inner diameter of 9 mm and a wire thickness of 1.86 mm.

Comfort and functionality for you

The helmet is designed with comfort in mind. Inside, you'll find an integrated, adjustable liner made from genuine leather, which moulds to the shape of your head and helps absorb impacts. Thanks to the chin strap, the helmet will sit securely.

Technical specifications:

• Material: Construction steel (sheet thickness approx. 1.24 mm)
• Internal Dimensions: Depth (forehead to back) approx. 22 cm, Width (ear to ear) approx. 20 cm
• External Circumference of Bowl: approx. 72.5 cm (designed to fit most head sizes with the liner)
• Length of Chainmail Aventail: 29 cm
• Aventail Rings: Inner diameter 9 mm, wire thickness 1.86 mm (butted)
• Weight: approx. 3706 g
• Liner: Adjustable leather liner with chin strap

Who wore helmets like this and when?

Helmets of this type, known as spectacle or Vendel helmets, were characteristic of elite warriors during the Vendel period (c. 550-790 AD) in Scandinavia. They were symbols of status and power, often found in rich burials like those at Vendel and Valsgärde in Sweden. They represent the direct predecessors of helmets used by the Vikings. They were worn during war campaigns, raids, but likely also for ceremonial and formal occasions.

How can you use it today?

This helmet is the perfect choice for:

• Historical Reenactment: An authentic look for portraying a warrior from the Vendel or early Viking Age.
• LARP and Cosplay: Adds credibility to your warrior or hero character.
• Theatre and Film: A superb prop for historical scenes.
• Collecting and Display: An impressive piece for your collection or as unique home décor.
• Gift: Will delight any fan of history, Vikings, and the Middle Ages.

A fascinating historical fact

Did you know that a very similar, even more ornately decorated helmet was discovered in the famous Sutton Hoo ship burial in England? Dating back to the 7th century, it highlights the close cultural and military ties between Anglo-Saxon England and Scandinavia even before the main Viking expansion. The spectacle guard was the height of protective technology at the time!

How to care for your helmet

To keep your helmet in good condition for a long time:

1. Keep it dry: Moisture is steel's enemy.
2. Wipe it dry after every use (especially if you've sweated in it).
3. Regularly treat the metal parts with a thin layer of oil (e.g., gun oil, WD-40, or conservation wax) – this applies to the outer surface and the chainmail aventail. The inner painted surface should be more resistant.
4. Check the leather liner and treat it with a leather conditioner if necessary to prevent it from hardening or cracking.
5. Store the helmet in a dry place.

Get this helmet and step into the world of the legendary warriors of the North. It's not just a piece of steel; it's a symbol of strength, courage, and the heritage of bygone times that you can wear with pride!

A high-quality product made by Lord Of Battles®