Battle Ready Hounskull Bascinet for HMB & Buhurt, 2.5 mm Steel
Are you looking for a helmet that can withstand even the toughest melee in the arena? You just found it. This massive Battle Bascinet with a Hounskull (Pig-face) visor has been developed specifically for the needs of full-contact combat (HMB, Buhurt, Battle of the Nations). It is based on historical 14th-century models, but its design has been optimized by modern combat specialists for maximum protection and functionality. With an uncompromising steel thickness of 2.5 mm (approx. 12-13 gauge), you don't have to worry about polearm strikes. Thanks to the thoughtful shape of the visor, the helmet provides surprisingly good vision and enough airflow without sacrificing safety. If you are serious about steel fighting, this is your new best friend for the front line. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Battle Ready Hounskull Bascinet for HMB & Buhurt, 2.5 mm Steel
A Tank Among Helmets for Modern Gladiators
This model is not a thin tin can for display. It is a solid piece of armor, made of 2.5 mm (0.1") thick mild steel (cold rolled). Production involves hand hammering and welding, followed by grinding and polishing. The helmet is not tempered, but at this material thickness, it offers excellent protection thanks to its mass and toughness.
Key Combat Features:
- Visor Locking: To prevent the visor from opening in combat when you least need it, it is secured in multiple ways. In the lowered position, it is held by a rotating hook with a pin on the right side and a leather strap with a brass buckle on the left side.
- Spring Lock System: Need to catch your breath or drink between rounds? The visor can be fixed in the raised position thanks to a spring-loaded pin near the right hinge.
- Aventail Ready: A leather strip with brass vervelles is riveted to the bottom edge of the skull. This allows you to easily attach a chainmail aventail (camail), which is historically and functionally essential (chainmail is not included).
Product Specifications
| Material | Mild steel (carbon steel), cold rolled |
| Material Thickness | Approx. 2.5 mm (0.1") - may vary slightly due to handcrafted nature |
| Finish | Polished, not tempered/hardened |
| Intended Use | HMB, Buhurt, Battle of the Nations (Full contact) |
| Liner | No fabric liner included (padded coif required) |
| Fastening | Leather chin strap included |
Size Chart
| Size | Head Circumference (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| M | 60 ~ 61 cm (23.6" ~ 24") |
| L | 63 ~ 64 cm (24.8" ~ 25.2") |
Tip: When measuring your head circumference, account for the thickness of the padded coif/arming cap you will wear underneath!
A Bit of History: Why the Pig Face?
This type of helmet, known as a bascinet with a Hounskull (from the German Hundsgugel, meaning "dog hood"), dominated European battlefields from the second half of the 14th century to the early 15th century. It replaced the cumbersome great helms. Its typical conical visor shape wasn't just fashion – it had a brilliant defensive function. The pointed shape caused lance tips and arrows to glance off to the side rather than penetrating the plate. This version features breathing holes on both sides for better ventilation during sports.
Care Instructions
Since the helmet is made of carbon steel, it is prone to rust. Here are a few tips to keep it in top condition:
- Preservation: Wipe the helmet with a dry cloth and oil it after every use (or even after touching it). You can use mineral oil, synthetic oil, or WD-40.
- Storage: Store it in a dry place. Moisture is the number one enemy.
- Leather: Treat the leather parts (straps, aventail band) occasionally with leather conditioner to prevent cracking.
Safety and Recommendations
Although this helmet is marked as Battle Ready and suitable for HMB/Buhurt, please remember that no armor is indestructible. Due to the absence of an internal fabric liner, it is essential to wear a thick, well-padded arming cap (padded coif) underneath. This cushions impacts and ensures the helmet fits securely. To complete your protection, we strongly recommend attaching a chainmail aventail to the provided vervelles to protect your neck and throat.
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