Crusader Flat Top Great Helm

13th Century Crusader Flat Top Great Helm

Historical Context and Purpose

The original of this armour type dates back to the first half of the 13th century. The great helm represented the pinnacle of head protection for the heavy cavalry of the era. It was designed to provide the knight with maximum protection for the entire head and neck against crushing blows from polearms and arrows. The flat top was typical of the earlier versions of these helmets before they transitioned to more conical shapes to better deflect strikes. The narrow eye slits limited the field of vision but rendered the knight's face virtually invulnerable.

Appearance and Craftsmanship

At first glance, you will notice the cylindrical shape with a flat top made of mild steel. The individual plates are firmly riveted together. The front face is dominated by a cross-shaped reinforcement, into the arms of which the narrow eye slits (ocularium) are integrated. The lower half of the faceplate features vertical ventilation slots, making breathing easier in the heat of battle. Inside, the helmet is fitted with an adjustable leather spider liner and a sturdy chin strap with a metal buckle, ensuring it sits firmly on your head.

Safety Rules and Armour Care

This replica is ideal for historical re-enactment, LARP, theatrical performances, or light stage combat. However, we must warn you that it is not protective armour suitable for heavy full-contact combat such as buhurt, Battle of the Nations, and similar extreme contact sports. Never use it for full-contact strikes with blunt weapons, as this could result in its deformation and serious injury to you.

To ensure the steel surface remains pristine for a long time, it is necessary to wipe it dry after every use and conserve it with a thin layer of gun oil. The leather liner and strap should occasionally be treated with a high-quality leather balsam.

Table of Technical Parameters

For maximum wearing comfort, we strongly recommend you acquire a thickly padded linen arming cap to wear under this helmet, ideally in a historical pattern corresponding to the 13th century.