Steel Rodela Shield Ø58cm (approx. 22.6in), Renaissance, Lightweight - Outlet

Steel Rodela Shield Ø58cm (approx. 22.6in) – Renaissance, Lightweight, Lord of Battles

Your Rodela Shield in Detail

Appearance and Construction

This round shield features a pronounced convex (curved outwards) shape and a diameter of approximately 57.5 cm (approx. 22.6 inches). It is handcrafted from 1mm (20 gauge) thick mild steel with an attractive matte polished surface, lending it an authentic historical appearance. The reverse side is thoughtfully equipped for comfortable wear and handling: you'll find a comfortable wooden handle mounted on a padded base, an adjustable forearm strap made of genuine buffalo leather, and a soft fabric padding. This padding cushions against any impact and enhances comfort during wear.

Lightness and Handling

Weighing only around 2.6 kg (approx. 5.73 lbs), this Rodela shield is exceptionally light. This allows for quick and agile manoeuvres, true to the fighting style of the historical Rodeleros, who relied on their agility in combat. Each shield is handmade, ensuring slight variations that offer a unique flair to your collection.

Uses for Your Rodela Shield – Elegance and History

This Rodela shield replica will serve you well on many occasions:

• Costume Events and Renaissance Fairs: The perfect accessory for a 15th-16th century Spanish or Italian soldier's costume, or as part of a Conquistador's attire.
• Historical Reenactments (Non-Contact): Ideal for portraying light infantry – the Rodeleros – in historical scenes and demonstrations where no heavy combat occurs.
• Theatrical Performances and Film Shoots: An authentic-looking prop that lends credibility to historical scenes.
• Decoration: A stylish and intriguing element for your collection, study, or as an original decoration with a touch of history.
• Gift for Enthusiasts: A great gift idea for lovers of Renaissance military history.

The Rodela in the Hands of a Renaissance Foot Soldier

History of the Rodeleros

The Rodela was the characteristic shield of the "Rodeleros" (shield-bearers), a type of Spanish and Italian light infantry prominent at the turn of the 15th to the 16th century. These soldiers, typically armed with a sword and a rodela, were known for their agility and their effectiveness in disrupting tight enemy formations, particularly pike squares. They could slip under the pike heads and attack vulnerable points.

Did You Know? The Rodela and the New World

Rodela shields were not confined to European battlefields. Famed conquistadors like Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro equipped their men with rodelas during their expeditions in the Americas. These lightweight and manoeuvrable shields proved useful in the diverse combat conditions encountered in the New World, echoing their bold conquests.

Important Notice for Use

This shield is crafted from 1mm (20 gauge) thick mild steel. While sturdy for its intended design, it is primarily meant for costume purposes, LARP, and scenic historical reenactments where no forceful, direct combat (contact fighting) occurs. It is not designed or recommended for heavy sparring or full-contact battles.

Caring for Your Steel Shield

To maintain the matte polished surface and protect against corrosion:

• Keep the shield dry. After handling, especially if it has come into contact with moisture or sweat, wipe it dry.
• Occasionally apply a very thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., gun oil or mineral oil) to the steel surfaces.
• Treat the leather forearm strap with a leather care product to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
• Ensure the fabric padding on the back remains dry and clean.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®
• Shield Type: Round Convex Shield Rodela
• Historical Period: Renaissance (late 15th – 16th century)
• Material: Mild Steel, approx. 1 mm thick (20 Gauge)
• Surface Finish: Matte polished
• Diameter: Approx. 57.5 cm (approx. 22.6 inches; referred to as Ø58cm in product title for simplicity)
• Handle: Wooden handle on a padded base
• Forearm Strap: Genuine buffalo leather, adjustable
• Back Padding: Fabric
• Weight: Approx. 2.6 kg (approx. 5.73 lbs)
• Use: Costumes, decoration, historical reenactment (non-contact)