Scottish Shields

Scottish shield is a protective device, meant to intercept attacks. The term often refers to a device that is held in the hand, as opposed to armour or a bullet proof vest. Scottish shields have varied greatly in construction over time and place. Sometimes scottish shields were made of metal, but wood or animal hide construction was much more common; wicker and even turtle shells have been used. Size and weight varied greatly, lightly armoured warriors relying on speed and surprise would generally carry light shields that were either small or thin. Heavy troops might be equipped with large heavy shields that could protect most of the body.
Scottish shields or sometimes called the targe, were round shields with loops on the back through one of which the arm was passed while the other was grasped by the hand. The typical Scottish targe was about twenty inches in diameter and made of wood covered with leather studded with brass bosses. It had a central spike which was sometimes as much as ten inches long and could be unscrewed and carried in a pocket in the deerskin lining. The Scottish targe was effectively used by the clansmen as a defence against both arrows and hand weapons. This shield was light and maneuverable, often concealing a left-hand held dirk.
It was used by the wild clansmen of Scotland and gave the Redcoats real trouble during Bonnie Prince Charlie's Rebellion. It had a thick plywood construction that allowed for a thick dose of protection. The long and removable steel spike had a square cross section and screwed into a grommet for use as a weapon. The thick, top grain leather was often embossed with traditional Celtic designs and protected by a leather lacquer to give it a beautiful sheen. The construction of leather over wood, boasting brass accents for beauty and strength along with a fierce steel center spike made it a perfect addition to all collections.