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Bascinet with Removable Visor "Spoleto" – 14th Century
Are you looking for a helmet that protects you in the heat of battle but also allows you to breathe freely when the danger has passed? This Late Medieval Bascinet is precisely the versatile solution you need for tournaments and historical events. It is based on Italian and European models from the period of 1370–1410, a time when knightly armour was becoming increasingly perfected and specialized. Thanks to its unique design, you essentially get two helmets in one – a fully closed helmet for heavy infantry/cavalry and, upon removing the visor, an open-faced bascinet for better visibility on the battlefield or for archers. Whether you choose the 1.6 mm variant for LARP and theatre or the 2 mm "tank" for contact fencing, this piece of armour will not let you down. Further product information ...
Bascinet 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 (Klappvisier system). 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 in the heat of combat. * 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 the Camera Pinta 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 men-at-arms because its conical shape excelled at deflecting blows from swords and axes. On the bottom edge of the helmet, you will notice a row of small studs with holes. Technically, these are called vervelles. They serve to attach a chainmail aventail (camail), which historically protected the neck and shoulders. The aventail is not included, but the helmet is fully prepared for its installation.
Comfort and Maintenance
Inside the helmet, you will find an adjustable leather suspension liner, which cushions impacts and ensures the helmet fits securely without wobbling. A firm fit is guaranteed by a leather chin strap with a historical brass buckle. To ensure your armour lasts a long time: * Wipe the helmet dry after every use and remove any sweat residue. * Oil the metal parts regularly (e.g., with WD40 or gun oil) to prevent rust. This is doubly important for the polished version. * The blackened version is more resistant to rust and offers a rougher, mercenary look. * Treat the leather liner and straps occasionally with leather conditioner to prevent cracking.
Parameters and Specifications
| Material | Mild Steel |
| Material Thickness | Optional 1.6 mm (16 gauge) or 2.0 mm (14 gauge) |
| Finish | Optional Polished or Blackened |
| Inner Circumference | approx. 68 cm (26.8 in) - including liner |
| Front to Back | approx. 21.5 cm (8.5 in) |
| Ear to Ear | approx. 19 cm (7.5 in) |
| Total Height | approx. 30 cm (11.8 in) |
| Weight (1.6 mm / 2.0 mm) | approx. 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) / 3.5 kg (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 for extreme disciplines like Buhurt (HMB, Battle of the Nations). If you intend to participate in full-contact tournament combat, check your organization's rules. The 1.6 mm version is ideal for LARP, theatre, or light forms of scenic fencing. Please note that the chainmail aventail is not included in the package.
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