Viking Round Shield – Red, 24-Inch Wooden Combat Shield with Steel Boss & Fittings

Lord Of Battles Viking Round Shield – Red, 24-Inch Wooden Combat Shield with Steel Boss & Fittings

Into Battle with a Faithful Replica – The History of the Viking Shield

The round shield was the primary and indispensable piece of defensive equipment for the Vikings (circa 8th to 11th centuries). Relatively lightweight, typically crafted from woods like linden, fir, spruce, or pine, it allowed a warrior agile movement in combat. Shield boards might be covered with rawhide or linen to increase resilience. The central iron shield boss (umbo) protected the hand gripping the single wooden bar that ran across the center behind the boss. Edges were often reinforced with leather or, as with this replica, with metal.

Vikings frequently painted their shields vividly, adorning them with personal symbols, geometric patterns, or mythological motifs. These paintings could signify allegiance to a warband or simply reflect the warrior's personality. Interestingly, Viking shields weren't just defensive tools; during voyages, they were often hung along the sides of longships (the "shield-wall" or skjaldborg), offering some protection from waves and missiles while also demonstrating the crew's readiness for battle. Feel the weight of history in your hands as you protect yourself with this formidable gear.

Detailed Description and Design of the Shield

This Viking shield is the result of meticulous handcrafting, showcasing the authentic craftsmanship that goes into every detail, emphasizing historical authenticity and functionality.

• Shield Body: Crafted from a solid board of genuine wood, ensuring strength and a traditional appearance.
• Dimensions: The shield has a diameter of approximately 24 inches (ca. 61 cm).
• Front Face: Painted a bold, rich red, serving as a vibrant declaration of power and defiance. The dominant feature is the polished steel shield boss (umbo), made from 1.6mm thick steel, effectively protecting the wielder's hand and reinforcing durability against impact. Surrounding the boss are four decorative and reinforcing diamond-shaped steel plates. These plates are crafted from 1.2mm thick steel and are securely riveted to the wooden body.
• Shield Edge: The entire circumference of the shield is carefully bound with 1.2mm thick steel sheeting, significantly increasing its durability and ability to fend off harsh blows from axes.
• Back Face: Painted black for practicality and contrast. It features a robust wooden handle running centrally behind the boss, allowing for a firm and secure single-handed grip, typical of Viking shields and expertly designed for an ergonomic hold.
• Fittings Material: The shield boss, decorative plates, and edge binding are all made from tough mild/structural steel.

Ready for Combat and for Your Wall – Modern Uses

This Viking shield is more than just a historical artifact; it’s an invitation to step into the shoes of the warriors who once roamed the lands. You can utilize it in many ways:

• Reenactment and Historical Combat: The shield is fully functional and designed to withstand the rigors of historical reconstructions of Viking battles, allowing you to engage with confidence. (Always adhere to the safety rules of your specific event or group).
• Impressive Decoration: It serves as a glorious piece of wall art for any home or office. Imagine this striking shield hanging prominently in your living space, sparking conversation and admiration from guests as they appreciate its authenticity and design. Elevate your decor with a piece that tells a story of valor and adventure.
• LARP and Theatre: A perfect and authentic accessory for your Viking costume at LARP events, theatrical performances, or film shoots.
• Original Gift: The ideal gift for any fan of Vikings, Norse mythology, medieval history, or reenactment. An exceptional gift for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Using and Caring for Your Viking Shield

Holding Your Shield:

The shield is held by the central wooden handle located on the back. Your fist is naturally protected by the steel shield boss on the front. This design enables you to wield this shield with agility and ease, feeling ready for the battlefield.

Caring for Your Shield:

• Wooden Parts (Shield Body, Handle): Keep the shield dry to prevent the wood from absorbing moisture. For general cleaning, wipe with a dry or only slightly damp cloth. Avoid exposing the shield to extreme and sudden changes in temperature and humidity, which could lead to the wood cracking.
• Metal Parts (Boss, Fittings, Edge Binding): These are made of steel, which is prone to rust. After each use, especially if the shield has come into contact with moisture (rain, sweat), thoroughly dry all metal parts. Then, lightly oil them with a conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol) or a specialized metal wax to create a protective barrier against rust. Polished surfaces of the boss and fittings can be occasionally buffed with a soft cloth to maintain their shine.
• Painted Parts (Red Front and Black Back): Protect the painted surfaces from scratches and hard impacts. Remove dust with a soft, dry cloth.
• Storage: When the shield is not in use or on display, store it in a dry place with a relatively stable temperature.

Enter the World of the Vikings with Lord Of Battles®

With this Viking shield from Lord Of Battles®, you acquire not only a piece of history but also a high-quality, well-crafted, and functional item that will bring you joy for many years, whether on the reenactment battlefield or as a proud decoration. It stands as a testament to your passion for history and culture. Equip yourself with this masterpiece today and embody the legacy of the Vikings!