Medieval Heater Shield Blank for Your Coat of Arms 70.5x46cm - 1.2mm Steel (18 Gauge)

Medieval Heater Shield Blank for Your Coat of Arms 70.5x46cm - 1.2mm Steel (18 Gauge)

Appearance and Robust Construction

This triangular shield, also known as a V-shield or heater shield, is a faithful replica of historical high medieval shields. The front is crafted from 1.2mm (18 gauge) steel sheet, polished to an almost mirror-like sheen, ready for your immediate artistic endeavours. The edges of the shield are carefully rolled (reinforced), enhancing their strength and providing an authentic look; this reinforced edge has a thickness of approximately 4mm. The overall dimensions are 70.5 cm (approx. 27.75 inches) in height and 46 cm (approx. 18.11 inches) in width, offering ample space for both protection and decoration.

The back of the shield is practically finished with black paint for protection and features a well-designed carrying system. This consists of a sturdy wooden handle, 13 cm (approx. 5 inches) in length, securely riveted to the shield body via iron supports. It is complemented by an adjustable leather forearm strap, 2.5 cm (approx. 1 inch) wide and 4mm thick, fitted with a steel buckle. This right-handed shield is specifically crafted to be carried on the left arm. The shield weighs 2960 g (approx. 6.5 lbs), attesting to its solid build.

Ready for Your Coat of Arms

The greatest feature of this shield is its blank surface. It's a pristine canvas awaiting your mark. Whether you're part of a historical combat group, a LARP enthusiast, or seeking a unique decorative piece, this shield allows you to fully express your creativity. Paint your own coat of arms, your group's emblem, or any design that captures your imagination.

How You Can Use Your Shield

This heater shield offers a wide range of applications, from an authentic costume accessory to a striking decorative element.

Historical Fencing and Reenactment

Thanks to its solid 1.2mm steel construction, this shield is suitable as part of your armour for historical fencing and reenactment events. While primarily designed for display and carrying, it can offer a degree of protection for light reenactment. For more demanding, full-contact combat, please consider its material limitations.

LARP and Cosplay

For LARP (Live Action Role Playing) and cosplay fans, this shield is an ideal choice. Its authentic appearance will lend credibility to your character, and the option for custom painting allows you to perfectly match it to your persona and story.

Unique Decoration and Personal Artwork

Hang your shield on the wall to transform your home, office, or club room with a touch of medieval ambiance. Once adorned with your custom design, it becomes more than just decoration; it's a personal work of art and a definite conversation starter.

Theatre and Film Prop

With its realistic look and potential for personalization, this shield serves excellently as a prop for theatrical performances, film shoots, or themed events.

From the History of the Heater Shield

Development in the Shadow of Battlefields

The heater shield evolved from the earlier kite-shaped (Norman) shield around the mid-13th century. This change was no accident. With the advancement of plate armour, which began to offer better leg protection, and the advent of great helms providing comprehensive head protection, the need for large shields covering much of the body diminished. Original kite shields could cover 50-75% of a combatant's body.

Protection, Manoeuvrability, and Heraldic Significance

The new triangular shape was smaller, lighter, and offered better manoeuvrability and a wider field of vision for the warrior, without significantly compromising its protective function. It typically covered the area from shoulder to knee. Thanks to its width, it still effectively protected the upper body. It was on these shields that coats of arms began to be widely painted, making the heater shield a key element in heraldry for identifying knights on the battlefield and in tournaments.

Did You Know? Armour Transformed the Shield

Did you know that the evolution of shields was directly linked to the development of armour? As knights began to clad themselves in increasingly sophisticated plate armour, large shields that covered most of the body became less necessary and somewhat cumbersome. Smaller, triangular heater shields allowed for a more agile fighting style while still providing ample space for the prominent heraldic markings crucial for identification amidst the anonymity of closed helms.

Keeping Your Lord Of Battles® Shield Like New

This shield is a quality branded product from Lord Of Battles®. To ensure your new steel shield serves you well and retains its beauty for a long time, give it a little care:

• Keep Dry: After each use, especially if exposed to moisture, dry the shield thoroughly.
• Rust Prevention: Occasionally (especially if the shield is not used regularly or is stored in a humid environment) wipe the metal parts with a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40 or a specialist gun oil). This will help prevent rust.
• Cleaning a Painted Surface: If you paint your shield, clean it gently afterwards to avoid damaging your artwork. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth.
• Storage: Store the shield in a dry place, ideally hung or propped up to prevent deformation.

Technical Specifications

• Shield Type: Triangular Shield (V-Shield, Heater Shield)
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®
• Material: Mild Steel Sheet
• Sheet Thickness: 1.2 mm (18 gauge)
• Surface Finish: Polished (ready for painting), back painted black
• Overall Height: 70.5 cm (approx. 27.75 inches)
• Width: 46 cm (approx. 18.11 inches)
• Weight: Approx. 2960 g (approx. 6.5 lbs)
• Rolled Edge Thickness: Approx. 4 mm
• Handle: Wooden, length 13 cm (approx. 5 inches), riveted
• Forearm Strap: Leather, width 2.5 cm (approx. 1 inch), thickness 4 mm, adjustable with steel buckle
• Orientation: For right-handed users (carried on the left arm)