15th Century Steel Buckler Shield, 9-inch
Step into the World of Medieval Swordsmanship with This Authentic Buckler! This masterfully crafted steel buckler is a faithful replica of the fist-held shields that were an indispensable part of a warrior's arsenal from the High Middle Ages to the Renaissance. With its 9.2-inch (23.5 cm) diameter and robust construction, it's the perfect accessory for HEMA, LARP, theatrical performances, or as a stylish piece for your collection. Its unique, patinated antique finish gives it the appearance of a genuine historical artifact that has seen its share of battles. Further product information ...
15th Century Steel Buckler Shield, 9-inch | Handcrafted Round Shield with Antique Finish for HEMA & LARP
Detailed Product Description
The buckler is forged from durable 14-gauge mild steel (approx. 2 mm thick), ensuring high strength while maintaining a light weight of only 915 grams (approx. 2 lbs). The front is dominated by a pronounced central boss, which effectively deflects blows and protects your hand. The entire surface features a textured, intentionally irregular patina, evoking the impression of hand-forged craftsmanship and centuries of use.
- Material: 14-gauge mild steel
- Finish: Textured, Patinated (Antique Look)
- Grip: Wooden handle, securely riveted to the steel body
- Edge: Rolled for added safety and rigidity, approx. 5.5 mm thick
Size and Dimension Chart
| Parameter | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Overall Diameter (A) | 9.2 in / 23.5 cm |
| Boss Diameter (B) | 4.2 in / 10.5 cm |
| Grip Length (D) | 4.1 in / 10.3 cm |
| Depth of Boss (E) | 1 in / 2.5 cm |
| Overall Depth (F) | 2.8 in / 7 cm |
| Approx. Weight | 2 lbs / 915 g |
How Can You Use This Buckler?
This buckler shield is your ideal companion for:
- HEMA and Fencing Practice: Perfect for training sword and buckler techniques (e.g., from the I.33 manuscript).
- LARP and Living History: Completes your costume and provides basic hand protection in light-contact combat.
- Theatre and Film: An authentic prop for historical scenes.
- Collection and Display: A fantastic and visually striking addition to your armory or study.
Important Notice: Not Intended for Full-Contact Combat!
This buckler is a historical replica. It is not designed, tested, or certified as personal protective equipment (PPE) for modern full-contact sports like HMB (Historical Medieval Battle), Buhurt, or Battle of the Nations. Its use in these disciplines is at your own risk.
The Buckler Through History
Bucklers were small, lightweight shields held in the fist, popular from the 13th to the 16th centuries. Unlike larger shields, they were not worn on the back but often hung from a belt, making them a readily available weapon for self-defense and duels. Their main advantage was speed and the ability to actively bind and deflect an opponent's weapon, thereby creating an opening for one's own attack.
A Tidbit from History
The world's oldest surviving fencing manual, known as Royal Armouries Ms. I.33 (also called the "Tower Fechtbuch"), dated to around 1300, is devoted exclusively to combat with a sword and buckler. This manuscript provides detailed illustrations of a complex system of guards, strikes, and tactics, proving that buckler combat was a highly developed and sophisticated martial art.
How to Care for Your Buckler
To ensure your buckler maintains its appearance and resistance to rust, we recommend following these simple steps:
- After each use, especially in humid conditions, wipe the surface dry.
- Then, lightly coat it with a cloth soaked in a rust-preventative oil (like Ballistol or WD-40).
- Store it in a dry location.
A quality product from the House of Warfare brand.
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