Windlass Steelcrafts Hospitaller Helmet with Hinged Nasal, Patinated

Windlass Steelcrafts Hospitaller Helmet with Hinged Nasal, Patinated

This helmet is meticulously crafted to closely resemble the historical examples used by the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, also known as the Hospitallers. Its design is characteristic of the Early and High Middle Ages.

Construction and Unique Hinged Nasal Guard

The helmet has a conical, slightly rounded skull shape, effective at deflecting blows. It is constructed from 1.2mm thick steel sheet, ensuring its sturdiness. The most distinctive and unique feature is its hinged (folding) nasal guard. This type of protection for the nose and part of the face could be lifted when needed for better breathing or communication outside of combat, and lowered for maximum protection in battle. The nasal guard is attached to the helmet with a movable pivot mechanism.

Internal Comfort and Patinated Finish

For comfortable wear, the helmet is equipped with an adjustable internal liner and a leather chin strap, ensuring a stable fit on the head. The exterior surface of the helmet has a dark, patinated finish, which imparts an authentic, aged look and also helps protect the steel from corrosion.

Windlass Steelcrafts® Quality

This helmet is manufactured by Windlass Steelcrafts®, known for their production of quality replicas of historical weapons, armour, and accessories. You can be assured of the quality of the materials used and craftsmanship that honours historical practices.

Uses for This Knightly Helmet

This Hospitaller helmet replica is ideal for a wide range of historical activities and presentations:

• Historical Reenactment: Perfectly complements your knightly armour for the Early and High Middle Ages, especially if you are portraying a member of a knightly order.
• LARP (Live Action Role Playing): Provides your character with an authentic look and protection.
• Historical Costumes: Excellent for theatrical performances, film productions, historical parades, and festivals.
• Collecting: An exceptional and high-quality piece for collectors passionate about medieval history and chivalry.
• Decoration: An imposing addition to interiors with a historical theme.

From the History of the Knights Hospitaller and Their Armour

The Order of St. John, originally the Hospitaller Brothers of St. John the Baptist in Jerusalem, was founded in the 11th century and quickly became one of the most important knightly and hospital orders of its time.

Protection for the Knights of Faith

The Knights Hospitaller were renowned for their bravery and devotion. Their armour had to be of high quality and functional to withstand the harsh conditions of the Crusades and the defence of Christian territories. Helmets with nasal guards were standard equipment, offering facial protection while maintaining relatively good visibility and breathability. This helmet style was widespread across Europe and the Near East from approximately the 11th to the 13th centuries.

The Significance of the Hinged Nasal Guard

The hinged nasal guard was a practical improvement over fixed nasals. It allowed a knight to easily uncover his face when not in a combat situation, for instance, to drink, eat, communicate better, or simply for relief from the weight and restriction. In battle, the lowered nasal guard provided crucial protection for the nose and part of the face against slashes and thrusts.

Product Specifications

• Type: Hospitaller Helmet with Hinged Nasal Guard
• Manufacturer: Windlass Steelcrafts®
• Material: 1.2mm steel sheet
• Finish: Patinated surface
• Nasal Guard: Hinged (folding)
• Internal Features: Adjustable liner, chin strap
• Size: One size, for an internal head circumference up to 66cm (approx. 26 inches)
• Intended Use: Reenactment, LARP, costumes, collection, decoration

Caring for Your New Helmet

To ensure your Hospitaller helmet retains its beauty and functionality for as long as possible, give it the following care:

• Protecting the Patinated Surface: The patina offers some corrosion protection. After each use, especially if the helmet has been exposed to moisture, carefully wipe it dry with a soft cloth. From time to time, you can lightly treat the surface with a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., Ballistol) or metal wax; wipe off any excess. This will renew the protective layer.
• Hinged Mechanism: Keep the nasal guard's mechanism clean and, if necessary, lightly lubricate it with a drop of oil for smooth operation.
• Leather Liner and Chin Strap: Regularly treat the leather with a leather care product to keep it supple and prevent cracking. Always allow the liner to air dry thoroughly away from direct heat sources after use if it becomes damp.
• Storage: Store the helmet in a dry place with as stable a temperature as possible. Do not expose it unnecessarily to direct sunlight. For long-term storage, you can keep it in a breathable cover.

With this simple care, your Hospitaller helmet by Windlass Steelcrafts® will serve you faithfully for many years and become a highlight of your historical equipment.