Hounskull Bascinet Helmet c. 1390 - 1.6mm Steel

Hounskull Bascinet Helmet c. 1390 - 1.6mm Steel Knight Armour Replica

This helmet is crafted from 1.6 mm thick steel, with its individual plates meticulously riveted together. The helmet's surface is smooth, finished in a metallic silver colour. Its most distinctive feature is the conical, forward-projecting visor resembling a dog's snout, which gave the helmet its name ("Hounskull"). The visor is perforated with numerous ventilation holes for improved airflow. The edges of the visor aperture and the bottom rim of the helmet are adorned with striking brass bands secured by rivets, creating an attractive contrast with the steel surface. The visor is attached via hinges on the sides and is both movable and fully detachable – secured by a chain and pin mechanism on the right side. For your comfort, the helmet's interior features a comfortable leather liner and a leather chin strap for a secure fit. It is suitable for a head circumference of up to 61 cm, with internal dimensions of approximately 21.5 cm (back to front) and 19.5 cm (ear to ear). The overall height of the helmet is approximately 25 cm, and it weighs around 2.7 kg.

How You Can Use This Helmet

This Hounskull helmet replica is ideal for:

• Re-enactment and Historical Martial Arts: Its 1.6mm steel construction provides a solid basis for portraying a late 14th-century knight or warrior. (Before using in contact fighting, please check your group's regulations and consider any necessary modifications.)
• LARP (Live Action Role Playing): It will perfectly complement your medieval warrior costume.
• Display: It makes an imposing addition to your collection, study, or living room.
• Costumes: Perfect for theatre productions, film shoots, or themed events.

A Glimpse into History

As mentioned, the Hounskull was a type of visored bascinet that reached its peak popularity in the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Its shape, particularly the elongated visor, was highly functional. It offered enhanced facial protection against cuts and thrusts, while its conical form helped deflect weapon points. The ventilation holes ensured a supply of air, crucial during physical exertion in full armour. Knights often personalised their helmets, for example, with crests (known as cimiers) or paintwork, to be more easily recognisable on the battlefield.

Did You Know?

The name "Hounskull" (from the German "Hundsgugel," meaning hound's hood or head) was likely initially a somewhat mocking nickname that eventually became the common term for this visor style and, by extension, the entire helmet. Despite its perhaps slightly amusing name, it was a highly effective and battle-proven piece of armour.

Caring for Your Helmet

To keep your steel Hounskull helmet in good condition for a long time, follow these simple guidelines:

1. Storage: Keep the helmet in a dry environment to prevent rust.
2. Cleaning: After each use (especially if you've perspired), wipe the inner leather liner with a dry cloth. Also, wipe the outer steel surface dry.
3. Rust Prevention: Regularly treat the metal parts (especially before long-term storage or after exposure to moisture) with a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol, or gun oil). Apply the oil with a cloth and spread evenly.
4. Leather Parts: Occasionally treat the leather liner and chin strap with a leather conditioner to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

Acquire a piece of knightly history! This Hounskull helmet is more than just metal; it's a gateway to the fascinating world of medieval battles and chivalry. Its authentic design and quality construction make it an excellent choice for any history enthusiast.