Viking Shield 'Olaf' with Leather Rim, Red with Yellow Cross

Viking Shield 'Olaf' with Leather Rim, Red with Yellow Cross

Detailed Product Description

This large round shield, named Olaf, is a high-quality replica from the workshops of Windlass Steelcrafts®. The shield's body is made from durable plywood, making it strong yet light enough for active combat. The front is decorated with a classic Viking motif – a yellow cross on a red field.

• Material: Plywood, solid wood handle, construction steel boss.
• Edge: The rim of the shield is entirely wrapped and protected with genuine leather, which is secured with rivets. This significantly increases its durability against impacts and prevents the wood from splintering.
• Boss: A large, blackened steel boss reliably protects your fist.
• Grip: On the black-painted reverse side, a sturdy wooden handle is firmly riveted for a secure grip.

Technical Specifications

• Diameter: 76 cm (approx. 29.9 inches)
• Boss Diameter: 19 cm (approx. 7.5 inches)
• Thickness at Edge: approx. 15.4 mm (approx. 0.6 inches)
• Weight: approx. 4385 g (approx. 9.7 lbs)
• Brand: Windlass Steelcrafts®

Practical Use and Historical Context

How Can You Use This Shield?

Thanks to its size and sturdy construction, the Olaf shield is perfect for:

• Reenactment and Historical Fencing: Provides excellent coverage in battle and is ideal for forming a shield wall.
• LARP: A dominant and stylish shield for any Norse or fantasy character.
• Decoration: It will become a majestic ornament for any wall, fitting for a tavern, cabin, or private collection.
• Film and Theatre Props: Its authentic appearance will be appreciated by any production.

A Tidbit from History

Although we often picture Vikings in earthy tones, archaeological finds, such as the shields from the Gokstad ship burial in Norway, prove the opposite. Vikings often painted their shields with vibrant colours and simple geometric patterns like crosses, segments, or spirals. The paint was not just for decoration; it also served to identify allegiance to a warband or clan on the battlefield. This shield is therefore a faithful reflection of historical reality.

Care Instructions

Keep your shield in top condition:

1. The shield is made of wood and leather – protect it from rain and prolonged moisture. If it gets wet, dry it immediately.
2. Regularly treat the steel boss with a thin layer of conservation oil to prevent rust.
3. You can occasionally treat the leather rim with a leather care product to maintain its flexibility.
4. Store the shield in a dry place, away from direct sunlight or radiant heat.