Germanic shield, 1st-3rd century A.D.

The Germanic shield was very most important defensive weapon, especially among the early Germanic before the migration period. Since most of the Germanic warriors could afford neither a helmet nor a chain mail hauberk, the shield offered them not only protection in the battle, it could be used as an offensive weapon as well. Many shields were found by the archaeologists in the Hjortspring bog in Denmark.  Very common were the hexagon shields like the one, but some had oval shape. They were made of wood and had an umbo resembling La-Tene umbos. The Germanic shields were painted in by various war colours. We can paint this shield after your own individual template on request. More information...

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Germanic shield, 1st-3rd century A.D.

Some re-encators say that hexagonal shields are more suited to individual fighting, as they provide good defence, but are not quite as good in a 'shield wall' formation. This makes sense as the earlier Germanic tribes were more skirmishers and individual fighters, while during the migration period and early middle ages the 'shield wall' tactic became more popular.

The Germanic shieldis constructed from wooden boards that are glued together and covered with linen. In the middle of the shield is an iron shield boss (umbo), which protects the hand of the warrior. If desired, the shield will be fitted with an iron edge. 

If you would like a different colors or painting on the Germanic shield, make a note of your request in the comment to your order and then email us a template, as you wish the front of the shield to look like exactly. We will discuss that with the production and inform you about possible extra charge.

Specifications:

  • length 72.5cm
  • width 45cm
  • made of soft wood (e.g. alder, lime or birch wood) covered with linen
  • Handgrips made of wood
  • Weight approx. 2.56 kg

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