Light steel umbo

The umbo was a crucial component of medieval shields, particularly widespread in Nordic and Anglo-Saxon cultures. Its significant depth was not merely decorative but served to reinforce the shield's structure and provide additional protection against the powerful blows of the era's weapons. Our model is directly inspired by archaeological discoveries, faithfully reproducing the dimensions and weight of historical umbos.

This umbo stands out for its impressive depth and substantial weight, offering a combat experience that closely mirrors historical conditions.

Design and Materials:

Made from steel only 1mm thick, this umbo is exceptionally lightweight. Its inner depth of 45mm provides adequate hand protection while maintaining a low profile, ideal for the quick maneuvers characteristic of buckler combat. Weighing in at a mere 230g, it contributes to creating highly maneuverable shields.

Advantages for HEMA Practitioners:

The lightness of this umbo is its main asset. It allows practitioners to perform quick and precise movements, essential in buckler or small shield combat techniques. Despite its reduced weight, the umbo offers effective protection against blows, deflecting impacts thanks to its domed shape. This combination of lightness and protection makes it an excellent choice for fighters who prioritize speed and agility.

Unlike thicker and heavier umbos, this lightweight model allows for the creation of shields that do not tire the arm, even during long training sessions or tournaments. It is particularly suited to combat styles that involve rapid shield movements, as seen in some historical fencing treatises on buckler combat.