Viking Valknut Shield | 30-Inch Battle-Ready Round Shield
Enter the shield wall with the pride and strength of Odin's warriors! This massive Viking shield from House of Warfare is not just an accessory, but a fully functional piece of equipment, ready for the rigors of battle. On its black background gleams the striking red Valknut symbol, the knot of the slain, which clearly declares your devotion to the Norse gods and your fearlessness in the face of fate. The shield is crafted from sturdy, approximately 14 mm thick wood, features a robust steel umbo (boss) to protect the hand, and has a leather-wrapped rim. Thanks to its construction and weight, it is ideal for reenactment, historical combat, and LARP. Further product information ...
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Viking Valknut Shield | 30-Inch Battle-Ready Round Shield, a Shield with the Soul of an Einherjar
Who Is This Shield For?
This shield is intended for true warriors, whether on the field of historical reenactment, in a LARP battle, or during historical combat training. Its realistic dimensions (30-inch diameter) and weight (nearly 5 kg) make it an impressive and functional element of your Viking gear. At the same time, thanks to its iconic design, it is a magnificent wall decoration for any lover of Norse mythology who wants to give their home or club room an authentic atmosphere.
The Mysterious Valknut Symbol
The Valknut, or "knot of the slain warriors," is one of the most enigmatic and powerful symbols of Norse mythology. It consists of three interlocked triangles and is found by archaeologists on runestones and picture stones that are closely associated with the god Odin. Its exact meaning is debated, but it is widely believed to symbolize death in battle, the passage of a warrior's soul to Valhalla, and Odin's power over life and death. To carry this symbol into battle meant to fully commit oneself to Odin and to accept one's fate with courage.
Interesting Fact: The Shield Wall
The shield wall (*skjaldborg*) was the cornerstone of Viking battle tactics. Warriors stood shoulder-to-shoulder, overlapping their round shields to form a solid and almost impenetrable barrier against arrows and close-quarters attacks. This formation required immense discipline, strength, and absolute trust in the warrior next to you. The round shield was ideal for this tactic because it allowed for flexibility while providing cover not only for oneself but also for one's neighbour. This shield, with its dimensions and construction, is designed precisely for this purpose.
Construction, Parameters, and Maintenance
How to Care for Your Shield
Your shield is your life—treat it with respect.
- Wood: The shield is made of wood, so do not expose it to prolonged moisture or direct rain. After use in a damp environment, always wipe it thoroughly and let it dry in a well-ventilated area. You can occasionally treat the wooden parts (especially the back) with linseed oil or wood wax for better protection.
- Steel: The steel boss is made of carbon steel and is prone to rust. Keep it dry. After a battle, always clean it, dry it, and lightly wipe it with a conservation oil (e.g., WD-40 or Ballistol).
Key Features and Dimensions
- Material: Wood (approx. 14 mm thick), steel boss, leather rim
- Shield Diameter: 30 inches (76 cm)
- Boss Inner Diameter: 5.5 inches (14 cm)
- Boss Depth: 2.4 inches (6.2 cm)
- Grip Length: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 10.6 lbs (4.8 kg)
- Manufacturer: House of Warfare
What This Shield Is Definitely Not For
This shield is for combat and defense. It is not a serving tray for a roasted boar, although it would look magnificent. And definitely do not use it as a sledge for sliding down snowy hills; the consequences could be fatal for both you and the shield.
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