Viking Spectacle Helmet with Chainmail Aventail - 1.5mm Steel - Outlet

Viking Spectacle Helmet with Chainmail Aventail - 1.5mm Steel

Handcrafted Construction and Sturdy Materials

This imposing helmet is hand-made from robust 1.5 mm (16 gauge) thick steel (iron) plate. Its bowl is carefully riveted together and is dominated by the characteristic spectacle face guard, which provides protection for the eyes and nose while still allowing for good visibility and free breathing – crucial features for survival in battle.

The inside of the helmet is painted black to prevent corrosion. Protection for the neck and shoulders is ensured by the attached chainmail aventail (or camail), woven from sturdy, butted (non-riveted) steel rings with an inner diameter of 10 mm and a wire thickness of 1.29 mm (16 gauge), made from unhardened mild steel.

Comfort and Functionality for You

We've also considered your comfort. Inside the helmet, you'll find an adjustable liner made of genuine leather. You can easily adjust its size using the leather drawstring to ensure the helmet fits perfectly and the eye slits align correctly with your eyes. A chin strap with a brass buckle provides a secure fit.

Key Parameters:

• Helmet Material: Steel/Iron plate approx. 1.5 mm (16 gauge)
• Aventail Material: Mild steel, butted rings (10 mm diameter, 1.29 mm wire)
• Weight: Approx. 4.31 kg
• Internal Circumference: Approx. 68 cm (without liner) / 65 cm (with liner fitted) - fits most head sizes
• Internal Dimensions (approximate): Width at ear level 21 cm, Depth front-to-back at eye level 25 cm
• Height (from end of nasal guard): Approx. 19 cm
• Internal Finish: Black paint, adjustable leather liner with drawstring
• Fastening: Leather chin strap with brass buckle

Who Wore Helmets Like This and When?

Spectacle helmets are a typical, though not the most common, type of head protection associated with Vikings, especially in the late Viking Age (c. 10th-11th centuries). Due to their more complex construction compared to simple conical nasal helmets, they might have been associated more with chieftains or wealthier warriors. They were worn into battles and on raids, where their appearance undoubtedly commanded respect.

How Can You Use It Today?

This helmet is ideal for:

• Historical Reenactment: A great basis for a Viking warrior costume.
• LARP: Give your character an authentic and fierce look.
• Cosplay: Perfect for Viking or fantasy characters.
• Theatre and Film: An imposing prop.
• Collecting and Display: A striking piece for your collection or as decoration.

An Interesting Historical Fact

Forget the horned helmets from opera – Vikings never wore those! The true icon, although rare, is the spectacle helmet. The most famous archaeological find is the helmet from Gjermundbu in Norway (10th century). It's the only nearly complete helmet from Viking Age Scandinavia, and although somewhat simpler (found without a chainmail aventail, though it might have had one), its spectacle guard defined the image of the "real" Viking helmet for generations.

How to Care for Your Helmet

1. The helmet arrives oiled – this is temporary rust protection. Simply wipe off the oil with a dry cloth or an oil remover.
2. Keep the helmet and aventail dry.
3. After each use (especially if sweating), wipe the metal parts with a lightly oiled cloth (e.g., WD-40, conservation oil). Pay particular attention to the aventail rings.
4. Check the leather liner and strap, treating with leather conditioner if needed.
5. Store it in a dry place.

Equip yourself with this helmet and let your inner Viking stand out at the next LARP, historical event, or just for fun!

A high-quality product made by Lord Of Battles®