The 13th Century Heater Shield
The heater shield is the defining piece of 13th century military equipment. Smaller and more manoeuvrable than the earlier kite shield, it was designed for the faster-paced combat of the high medieval period. The classic triangular shape with a flat or gently curved top is instantly recognisable from manuscripts, effigies, and heraldic records.
These shields are built for people who use them - reenactors in full-contact combat, living history displays, and anyone who needs a shield that's historically correct and functionally sound.
Construction
Every heater shield starts with a laminated hardwood core. The grain of each layer runs in alternating directions - the same technique used by medieval craftsmen - creating a board that's strong in every direction and resistant to splitting under impact.
The core is shaped to the correct period profile: gently curved across the face for strength and deflection, with proportions drawn from surviving examples and manuscript evidence. Once shaped, the blank is covered in linen (for structural reinforcement) and leather (for weather resistance and grip).
Painting and Heraldry
A plain shield is functional but not finished. Most reenactors want their shield painted with their heraldic device - the personal arms that identify them on the field.
Options range from a simple field colour (a single painted background) to a full heraldic achievement with charges, ordinaries, and mantling. I paint by hand using the same layered technique described in medieval painting manuals: gesso ground, coloured field, then the charge built up in layers.
Strapping
Strapping is configured for your fighting style and arm length:
- Enarmes - Two leather loops for forearm and hand grip. The standard setup for combat shields.
- Guige - A long shoulder strap for carrying the shield on the march or wearing it on the back.
Both are included as standard. The enarmes are positioned during a fitting conversation to suit your reach and stance.
Ordering
Use the shield calculator to configure your shield - choose your size, thickness, covering, painting level, and strapping options. You'll get an instant price and can submit a quote request directly.
Typical build time is 4-6 weeks depending on painting complexity and current order volume.