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Bascinet Helmet with Removable Visor "Spoleto" – 14th Century
Are you looking for a helmet that will reliably protect you in the heat of battle, but also allow you to breathe freely as soon as the danger has passed? This late medieval bascinet is exactly the versatile solution you need for tournaments and historical events. It is based on Italian and European models from the period of 1370–1410, when knightly armour was becoming more perfect and specialized. Thanks to its unique construction, you essentially get two helmets in one – a fully enclosed helmet for men-at-arms and, after removing the visor, an open-faced bascinet that gives you a perfect overview of the battlefield. Whether you choose the version made of 1.6 mm (16 gauge) steel for LARP and theatre, or the 2 mm (14 gauge) "tank" for contact fencing, this piece of armour will not let you down. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Bascinet Helmet with Removable Visor "Spoleto" – 14th Century
Two Faces of One Helmet
The main advantage of this model is its versatility. The visor is fully removable. It is attached via pins in hinges on the sides of the helmet. These pins are secured with chains so you won't lose them in the heat of combat. If you pull the pins out, you can completely remove the visor, instantly transforming it into a light, open helmet. In combat, the visor is secured in the lowered position by a spring-loaded pin on the chin, so it won't accidentally open during sudden movements.
The shape of the visor is designed with practicality in mind: * Ventilation: Breathing holes are located on both sides of the visor, ensuring airflow even during great physical exertion. * Vision: The eye slits are wide enough for a good view of your opponent but narrow enough to protect your eyes from weapon points.
Historical Context and Inspiration
This type of helmet is an icon of the Hundred Years' War. The design is inspired by contemporary sources such as the painting by Spinello Aretino (1407), frescoes in Spoleto, Italy, or the manuscript "La prima deca" by Titus Livius (c. 1373). During this era, the bascinet evolved into the primary helmet for knights and heavy infantry because its conical shape excelled at deflecting blows from swords and axes.
Comfort and Maintenance
Inside the helmet, you will find an adjustable leather liner (spider), which cushions impacts and ensures that the helmet does not "swim" on your head. A secure fit is ensured by a leather chin strap with a historical brass buckle. To ensure your armour lasts a long time:
- Wipe the helmet dry and remove sweat after each use.
- Oil metal parts regularly (e.g., with WD40 or gun oil) to prevent rust. This applies doubly to the polished version.
- The blackened version is more resistant to rust and offers a rougher, mercenary look.
- Treat the leather of the liner and straps occasionally with leather conditioner to prevent cracking.
Parameters and Specifications
| Material | Mild steel (Carbon steel) |
| Material Thickness | Optional 1.6 mm (approx. 16 gauge) or 2.0 mm (approx. 14 gauge) |
| Finish | Optional Polished or Blackened |
| Internal Circumference | approx. 68 cm (approx. 26.8 inches) - without liner |
| Front-to-Back Distance | approx. 21.5 cm (approx. 8.5 inches) |
| Ear-to-Ear Distance | approx. 19 cm (approx. 7.5 inches) |
| Total Height | approx. 30 cm (approx. 11.8 inches) |
| Weight (1.6 mm / 2.0 mm) | approx. 2.5 kg / 3.5 kg (approx. 5.5 lbs / 7.7 lbs) |
| Liner | Genuine leather, adjustable |
Important Usage Warning
Although the 2 mm steel version is very robust and suitable for historical fencing (HEMA, re-enactment battles), please remember that specific rules and certification requirements apply to extreme disciplines such as Buhurt (HMB, Battle of the Nations). If you intend to participate in full-contact tournaments, check your organization's rules. The 1.6 mm version is ideal for LARP, theatre, or lighter forms of stage combat. For maximum comfort, we recommend wearing a padded arming cap under the helmet.
I would be happy to recommend a suitable chainmail aventail for this helmet, which you can easily attach to the prepared mounts.
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