Shields

Shields have been used as a protective weapon since ancient times, but were mainly used in the Middle Ages. Nowadays, they are primarily worn at LARP and Medieval conventions. Those who attend a themed event usually place great importance on an authentic look. Furthermore, shields are also suitable for decorative purposes.

At Meister Messer, you can get shields in medieval design in various versions. Our range includes, for example, battle-ready round and training shields, but also shields from fantasy series like Game of Thrones. The following guide summarizes all the important information on the topic.

What are shields?

A shield is a plate made of wood, wickerwork, steel, or another material, which is usually slightly curved. It is used to defend against close combat attacks with cutting and thrusting weapons, but also allows its wearer to defend against projectiles such as arrows or spears.

At the beginning, shields were often made of wicker. As more efficient weapons were developed over time, the protective shield also had to become more stable. Later, shields covered with leather on sturdy wood were used, then shields with metal fittings on wood, and finally metal shields.

Shields in historical context

Shields are among the oldest protective weapons of humanity. Already in the 3. millennium BC, leather-covered wooden frames or fabric-covered versions made of willow wicker were used for defense - for example by the Sumerians and Egyptians. Shields were also used as a protective weapon in Central Europe as early as the Stone Age.

In the early Middle Ages, the defensive tool often featured a so-called umbo or shield boss. This refers to a fist protection usually made of metal, which was riveted centrally onto the flat or curved front of the shield. Corresponding designs are equipped with a grip hole located behind the shield boss. In contrast, other models have leather straps for forearm and hand.

With the increasing spread of firearms at the beginning of the 16th century, shields in Central Europe were used less and less. In the French, Italian, and Spanish-Dutch armies, the defensive weapons, in contrast, were still in use as a more advanced version made of metal until the beginning of the [[1]]th century - often in combination with a rapier.

What types of shields are there?

As shields were continuously adapted to new weapons and fighting styles, different types of protective gear were used depending on the era and region. Some of the most common types include:

• Round shields were used in antiquity as well as in the Middle Ages and modern times. Their diameter is up to 100 centimeters. Their cornerless shape provided stability, but at the same time reduced the protective area. Round shields are mainly associated with Vikings and sailors, but are also considered the dominant type of shield in Europe in the 11. century.
• Tower shields can also be set down, thus also used as a protective wall. This fact was particularly important in connection with the turtle formation used by the Roman army. The multi-layered wooden shields allowed the legionaries to continue advancing even under enemy fire.
• So-called Bucklers are comparatively compact hand or fist shields with a diameter of only 30 to 50 centimeters, which were used primarily from the 13. to the 17. century. However, historians have found that corresponding designs already existed in antiquity.
• Dragon shields evolved from round shields and are also referred to as almond or Norman shields. They feature a greatly elongated bottom edge, providing greater protection to riders and foot soldiers.
• Triangular shields emerged at the end of the 12. century. Their upper edge has a significantly flatter shape than that of dragon shields. Additionally, their surface became increasingly smaller, which can be attributed to the pursuit of weight reduction and new armors with metal greaves.

Order high-quality replicas of medieval shields online

In the online shop of Meister Messer, you will find both simply designed shields and shields adorned with elaborate decorations. In addition to classic bucklers and round shields, we also offer Viking shields. Furthermore, at Meister Messer, you can also get armor and LARP weapons that contribute to an authentic look at reenactment and medieval events – So discover our range now and buy your desired item online easily and affordably.