Prior to the widespread use of weapons on battlefields and the subsequent revolution in warfare, shields constructed of wood, wicker, and occasionally iron had been providing centuries of service to their users. They were typically fastened to the fighters’ left shoulders or held in their left hands. Are you aware that different shapes were utilized in Medieval shields? If so, you can generally identify the historical period by observing the shield’s shape and its use in Buhurt.
Introduction to Different Types of Medieval Shields
Though some of them could also be used for striking, the primary function of medieval shields was undoubtedly to defend their bearer from harm. When they started to wear their own coats of arms, the shields later served an additional use as identifiers. Although they followed the trends, infantry and cavalry used separate shields.
Round Shield
According to archeological discoveries, round shields were typically constructed from materials that are light to handle, not overly dense, and not prone to splitting, such as linden wood, fir, alder, and poplar, with a steel or iron shield boss. While some shields, like sun wheels or crosses, have designs painted on them, most shields are depicted in illuminations as being painted a single hue.
Round shields were typically huge and used for shield wall tactics and smashing throughout the Bronze Age.
Kite Shield
After being created for mounted cavalry, kite shields are thought to have been brought to Britain by the Normans. The rider’s shoulder, chest, and prominent upper curve were all shielded by a narrow bottom. The majority of the English are shown on foot with kite shields in the Bayeux Tapestry.
Traditional kite shields were replaced in the middle to late twelfth century by a type with a flat top instead of a rounded one, which allowed a soldier to hold the shield upright more easily without obstructing his view.
Buckler Shield
With a central handle behind the boss, the Buckler was a tiny, spherical, metal shield that could be hung from a belt and measured up to 45 cm (18 in) when held in the fist. Throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, this kind of shield was only used as a supplementary weapon in hand-to-hand combat.
It was helpful in deflecting an opponent’s strikes, but it provided little defense against missile weaponry. The buckler was frequently used in conjunction with a rapier, falchion, or arming sword.
Heather Shield
The late 12th century saw the development of heater shields. Despite being derived from kite shields, they were easier to handle and could be utilized on foot or horseback. The shield became smaller in proportion to the increasing amount of body covered by plate armor. The heather shield was easy to move around in both mounted and on-foot battles because it was relatively light in comparison to other shields of its kind.Â
When not in use, heater shields frequently had a strap or guige that allowed the shield to be draped over the back. 15th-century jousting shields with a bouche, or “mouth,” through which the lance can pass.
Built for the Clash: The Solid Construction of Medieval Shields
In the field of historical reenactment, medieval shields are highly sought after. Historical authenticity is highly valued by Buhurt makers, who base their shields on old models. Shields used in Buhurt and related sports are creatively crafted while adhering to the fundamental medieval shapes.
For example, the basic line’s heather shield, which is made of sturdy 12 mm curved plywood, is only offered in classic black. A snug and comfortable fit is guaranteed with the adjustable elbow strap. This shield is made to be as large as the regulations allow in order to defend you throughout both mass crusades and solitary combat.
Even if your opponent is taller than you, you can still reach their face with this shield’s remarkable 28 cm punch length. No more being at a disadvantage because of differences in height.
With a weight of about 2.1 kg (4.63 lbs), this shield is the ideal combination of protection and agility. You’ll stay agile in the arena and quickly deflect incoming blunt-arm punches.
Or the titanium buckler shield, which is the ideal size for any warrior and has a 30 cm (11.8 inch) diameter with a leather wrist strap for easy wrist fixation. Its lightweight design, weighing only 905 g (2 lbs), permits rapid and effortless mobility while maintaining complete protection.
If you value quick reflexes, agility, and maneuverability, the buckler would be a good choice. The size makes it possible to move quickly, which makes it easy to move around the battlefield, quickly block incoming attacks, and precisely fire counterattacks. This buckler can provide you a clear edge in close-quarters combat or wrestling situations by making moves easier and giving you command of the battle.
Conclusion: Mastering the Shield
Accepting the heritage of shield combat from the Middle Ages can provide new insights into contemporary training techniques. Combat techniques from the past place a strong emphasis on strategy, balance, and coordination—skills that are still very useful today.
Modern training regimens can develop a comprehensive approach to self-defense, martial arts, and physical conditioning by including aspects of traditional shield use, such as defensive stances and controlled motions. These teachings, which provide guidance for body and mind mastery, serve as a reminder that innovation has its traditional roots.
