Viking Round Shield 76cm (30in) - Outlet

Viking Round Shield 76cm (30in) - Wood & Steel for Reenactment & Display

Construction and Materials Worthy of a Warrior

The foundation of this Viking shield is a solid plywood board, ensuring durability while maintaining a manageable weight. The front of the shield is typically painted (as depicted in product imagery, often in historical colours or with a natural wood finish). A dominant feature is the central steel boss (umbo), crafted from 1.6mm (16 gauge) thick carbon steel and riveted to the shield, providing essential hand protection. The shield's rim is reinforced on the front with a metal band composed of eight segments of 1.2mm (18 gauge) steel, significantly increasing its resilience against impacts. Two horizontal steel bars, also 1.2mm thick, run across the front of the shield; while primarily decorative, they also offer additional reinforcement.

On the reverse, you'll find a sturdy metal handle, encased in wood for a more comfortable and secure grip. An adjustable leather strap (as seen in photos) is also fitted, designed to go across the forearm, ensuring excellent control and manoeuvrability of the shield in action.

Ready for Battle and Display

Thanks to its robust construction, this shield is designed to withstand the rigours of scenic combat and historical reenactment. Its authentic appearance also makes it a superb accessory for LARP, cosplay, or as a striking centrepiece for your Viking-themed collection or home decor. It seamlessly blends form and function, allowing you to feel like a Viking warrior, ready to face any challenge.

How You Can Use Your Shield

This Viking shield is a versatile piece with a wide range of applications.

Reenactment and Scenic Combat

Its strength and functional design make it ideal for historical battle reconstructions and theatrical or filmic scenic combat, lending authenticity to your performances.

LARP and Cosplay

Become an intrepid Viking at LARP events or complete your detailed cosplay costume with this imposing shield.

Decoration with the Spirit of the North

Hang the shield on the wall of your home, club room, or study, and infuse the space with the atmosphere of the rugged North and heroic sagas. It’s a conversation starter and a testament to craftsmanship.

Collector's Item

For enthusiasts of Viking history and culture, this shield is a valuable collector's item, faithfully representing the craftsmanship and martial spirit of the Vikings.

History of the Viking Round Shield

Mainstay in Battle and Symbol of Identity

The round shield was the primary defensive tool for Viking warriors between the 8th and 11th centuries. It was relatively lightweight and, thanks to its centre grip, allowed for great versatility in combat – not just for blocking but also for active strikes with the shield's edge or boss. Vikings often adorned their shields with bold colours and patterns, which could signify clan affiliation or personal status. Shields were used individually and in formations, the most famous being the "shield wall" (skjaldborg), which provided collective protection against enemy attacks.

Materials and Traditional Craftsmanship

Traditionally, Viking shields were made from light yet strong wood (such as linden, fir, spruce, or pine). The shield board might be covered with rawhide or linen to increase its durability. The metal boss protected the hand and reinforced the centre. Edges were sometimes reinforced with leather or thin metal strips, although a full metal rim, as on this replica, indicates a more robust version designed for modern reenactment.

Did You Know? The Dynamics of the Centre Grip

Did you know that the centre grip of a Viking shield (one hand grasping a handle behind the boss) provided much greater flexibility and offensive potential than later shields strapped to the forearm? A Viking could easily angle the shield, use it to deflect blows from various directions, quickly change the covered area, and even actively "punch" with it or trap an opponent's weapon.

Keeping Your Lord Of Battles® Shield Ready for Ages

This shield is a quality branded product from Lord Of Battles®. All metal parts of the shield (boss, rim, crossbars, handle components) are made from carbon steel, which is not stainless. To ensure your shield lasts and retains its formidable appearance:

• Rust Prevention: Regularly treat all metal parts with a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol, or another gun oil). This is especially important after use in damp conditions or during prolonged storage.
• Rust Removal: If surface rust appears despite care, gently remove it with a fine wire brush, abrasive pad, or a specialized rust remover. Afterwards, thoroughly re-apply a protective oil.
• Wood Care: Keep the plywood dry. If heavily soiled, it can be wiped with a slightly damp cloth and dried immediately.
• Storage: Store the shield in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Technical Specifications

• Product Type: Viking Round Shield
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®
• Board Material: Plywood
• Metal Parts Material: Carbon Steel (not stainless)
• Shield Diameter: Approx. 76 cm (30 inches)
• Boss Material Thickness: 1.6 mm (16 gauge)
• Other Metal Sheet Parts Thickness (Rim, Bars): 1.2 mm (18 gauge)
• Handle: Metal, wood-clad
• Forearm Strap: Leather, adjustable
• Intended Use: Reenactment, Scenic Combat, LARP, Decoration