Crusader Great Helm with Brass Fleur-de-lis Cross
Are you looking for the definitive piece of armour to complete your medieval kit? This replica of a classic Great Helm is designed to transport you straight to the era of the Crusades. Featuring a commanding presence, the helmet is adorned with a large brass cross on the front, with each arm terminating in a stylized fleur-de-lis. Whether you are portraying a Knight Templar, a French nobleman, or a holy warrior at a LARP event, this helmet offers an authentic look and feel. It is not just a costume prop; it is a tribute to the heavy infantry and cavalry that dominated the battlefields of the 12th and 13th centuries. Further product information ...
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Crusader Great Helm with Brass Fleur-de-lis Cross
Maximum Protection and Historical Style
The Great Helm (or heaume) was the first helmet to cover the entire head, offering superior protection compared to earlier nasal helmets. This reproduction is crafted from mild steel with a thickness of approx. 18 gauge (1.23 mm), making it distinctively sturdy for light combat, re-enactment, and role-play. The flat-topped design is historically accurate for the early Crusader period. The brass cross is not merely decorative; it is riveted securely to the steel, adding an extra layer of defense to the facial plate.
Vision is provided through narrow eye slits (oculars), designed to minimize the risk of weapon points entering the helmet. Ventilation holes (breaths) are drilled into the lower front to assist with airflow. As with the originals, this helmet is sized generously to accommodate a padded arming cap and a mail coif underneath. Without this essential padding, the helmet will not fit correctly or safely.
Specifications
| Material | Mild steel, Brass fittings |
| Steel Thickness | Approx. 18 gauge (1.23 mm) |
| Total Height | Approx. 12.6 inches (32 cm) |
| Width (Ear to Ear) | Approx. 9 inches (23 cm) |
| Depth (Front to Back) | Approx. 10 inches (25.5 cm) |
| Inner Circumference | Approx. 29.5 inches (75 cm) - requires padding |
| Weight | Approx. 5.8 lbs (2653 g) |
Historical Context
Originating in the late 12th century, the Great Helm became the staple of the knightly class for about 300 years. It offered unparalleled protection but limited visibility and ventilation, which is why knights would often remove it when not in direct combat. The fleur-de-lis motif on the cross suggests a connection to French royalty or the divine, common themes among the Crusader orders like the Templars.
Care Instructions
To keep your armour in top condition, you must protect it from rust. Always store the helmet in a dry environment. If it gets wet or sweaty, dry it thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil (such as mineral oil or WD-40). The brass elements can be polished with standard metal polish to maintain their golden shine.
Safety Warning
This helmet is made of approx. 1.23 mm steel. While durable, it is NOT designed for full-contact heavy combat (such as Buhurt or SCA heavy fighting). Using it against full-force blows from heavy steel weapons could result in damage to the helmet and injury to the wearer. It is intended for LARP, scenic fighting, and costume use.
We recommend pairing this helmet with a thick padded arming cap or coif to ensure a snug fit and proper shock absorption.
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