The most iconic and useful tool in the 'Dark Age' warriors arsenal; something no self-respecting (or indeed sensible) Viking would be without. Used as both defensive shield and offensive weapon in it's own right, the round shield is a must have for all prospective re-enactors, LARPers and living history enthusiasts.
This is designed and made to be a practical item, at home both in demonstrations and full scale battle re-enactments. As such the main body of the shield is made from exterior grade plywood (either 9mm or 12mm thickness), a common material used in many re-enactment and LARP societies, for structural integrity. The shield is then faced front and back with a sturdy canvas to further improve the longevity of the shield against splinters and impacts before the addition of a sewn on rawhide rim (carefully cut and sewn by hand to minimize raised edges; sewn with artificial sinew for strength).
The shield boss is meticulously attached to the shield board and handle through the use of steel or copper rivets; ensuring a smooth finish, free of burrs. The handle is made from shaped wood - generally ash - shaped to fit the hand within the boss. The addition of a thick leather strap, firmly attached with rivets and wide washers to the board allows easy carrying of the shield on ones back to and from events.
Finally, shields can be painted in many different fashions, from simple block colours to simple personalised designs such as those demonstrated in the above pictures. A thick coat of toughened clear matt varnish is then applied to the entire shield and the rim to protect from the weather and prevent excessive scarring and tearing of the shield with heavy use.
This item is made to order with a turn around - generally including delivery time - of 4 to 8 weeks. Once you purchase the item, we will be in contact to discuss the options available to you such as paintwork and style of handle etc. If you require specific variations for your shield it is strongly advised that you contact us prior to purchase in order to discuss more complete options of customisation.
Enhanced options such as complex painted designs, hand hammered or non standard shield bosses and unusual or child sized shields will also be undertaken on a commission basis.
Delivery for single items this size is unfortunately prohibitive and as such can only be delivered within the UK. Shields under 32" can also be posted within the EU on an individual basis due to remaining below most carriers maximum sizes. If purchasing a group or bulk order of 3 or more shields, then shipping to the European Union becomes feasible and will be considered on an individual basis.
Present Past strives to produce high quality historical inspirations and reproductions, meticulously researched and with the highest standards of customer care
This single shield item includes;
- 9mm or 12mm exterior grade plywood board
- 1.6mm (14 gauge) spun steel boss
- Faced and backed with sturdy canvas
- Hand sewn rawhide edging
- Fully painted in block colour or simple patterning
- Shaped wooden handle
- Leather carrying strap & buckle
***All of our shields are unique handmade items, made to the highest standard we can achieve. Many of our shields have been successfully used for many years of active use with minimal maintenance. However if the shields are to be used for combat use we simply cannot guarantee a fixed lifespan of the shield and cannot be held responsible for breakage due to excessive use. Unless obviously flawed due to construction or delivery, replacements will only be considered on an individual basis. If you are concerned please contact us first***
The following pages act as the online portfolio of our past and present work, many of which are often made time and time again due to popularity. To find out more about each of our items and enquire as to customisation and timescales, then just get in touch via the 'Contact Us' page.
To place an order simply send us an email with your requirements. Once we have your final order we will send you an email 'Paypal' invoice. Transactions can also take place via our Etsy shop upon request.
You can also view our Etsy shop to see all of our current 'in stock' items or to view more of our previous work.
To find out more about what makes our products unique and more about Present Past then simply see 'Our Philosophy' and 'Who we are' pages.
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