Beowulf Viking Shield

Most shields of the Viking/Saxon period were circular. They were perfect for the formation of the Skjaldborg (Old Norse) or Scildweall (Old English) Shield Wall that was prevalent in Dark Age warfare. Warriors would overlap their shields to benefit from the protection from their neighbours’ shield as well as their own. When battling the Vikings, the Anglo-Saxon Fyrd (militia) would use this formation as it required less skill than hand to hand fighting. The Bayeux Tapestry features Anglo-Norse Huscarls using round shields working in close cooperation with two-handed axemen.  The Viking Round Shield fell out of use towards the end of the 11^th century, giving way to the Norman style Kite Shield with afforded better protection, both on foot and on horseback.

Our Beowulf Viking Shield is one of the best value shields available to buy in the UK. It is constructed of hardwood with a dark stained finish and is approximately 13 mm thick. It features a steel boss with a steel rim to protect the edges. The inside surface is covered with felt. Perfect for theatre and film work and a great display piece.

Buy the Beowulf Viking Shield with confidence from the UK’s leading Viking shield retailer.