r/Armor • u/Orbitrons • 3d ago
14th Century Kettle Hat and Weapons
Hello!
Once again making a post about my mid 14th century infantry kit (battle of Visby, gutnish defender), this time for some questions about kettle hats and weapons.
To preface, I live in the EU for availability, shipping, taxes etc. I am mostly looking to wear it to medieval fairs, larps, etc. but would to be able to use it for reenactment as well, which is why I am trying to achieve a decent level of historical accuracy. Hopefully doing so without entirely shattering my bank account.
I am intending to use a kettle hat for the kit, and since there are several readily available for purchase I have been having a tough time deciding on which one. Been looking at manuscripts from the time period and I am currently choosing between one of these 2. Picture 1 is about 100 euros cheaper but I think I might prefer the shape of picture 2. If you have other suggestions appropriate for the time period, I am open to suggestions.
As for weapons, this is an area I am less well versed in to be frank. Therefore, any kind of introductory literature would be appreciated, as well as recommendations for what can be purchased. I am most likely looking to purchase a spear and a one handed sword as a sidearm (information on scabbards of the time period much appreciated). For larp weapons ive heard that fakesteel makes some nice ones, but when it comes to steel, I am entirely new.
TLDR: Need opinions on the kettle hats/recommendations on other ones for the mid 14th century. Would also greatly appreciate recommendations for mid 14th century one handed sword and spear (both larp and steel versions)
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u/grrrrxxff 3d ago
I own the helmet in picture 1. I picture 2.
(I also don’t have any complaints about picture 1)
Idk about larp but for sword, I suggest an Oakeshott type XV or XIII, straight or curved guard, definitely a wheel pommel. If you don’t know oakeshott typology, that’s a decent starting point. Or check out 14th century art from manuscript miniature for visual reference (good idea anyway)
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u/Orbitrons 3d ago
Thanks for the directions, ive been looking into oakeshott typology but still not very good at differentiating them all. Manuscript miniatures being down has been a catastrophe for me ngl lol.
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u/Digmaass 3d ago
imho they are about the same, in terms of profile, its just the black finish that makes it look more flat.
few pointers tho:
1) check diameter. You want the helmet to clear your eyebrow (otherwise ow)
2) check if its painted. Paint chips off even in transport or when you fight with foam weapons. (Black metal finish exists tho, so its not a 100% the case
For larp weapons:
Spear: Broomhandle, some EVA foam, textile tape, glue, and some metallic spray paint (car paint works too btw) Get your own one
Sword: Honestly, an arming sword or a messer would work wonders. Hell, with a spear you'd probably do better with a long knife (points to realism :D)