Rocmistro wrote:Interestingly enough, I think it might be tougher to get a buckler off your arm than a full great shield! Since the buckler is ONLY strapped on, i imagine it has to be tighter to prevent it from being knocked off your arm or at least knocked out of place. But I have never marched, drilled or fought with a buckler so I don't know for sure.
There are no convincing images (at least to me) of "strap on" bucklers.
But those aren't the same as a targe in a large buckler size (10"-12"), which are documented from the reiver era. The targe's straps aren't usually adjusted much - one's a small strap for the hand, which one slides the hand into; the other is a cuff opposite it. It's an incredibly secure rig, but isn't tight on the arm. Relax your hand, swing your arm, and it's off (but may take your glove with). Larger targes usually use the same rigging. I've used the same small targe in fencing with rapier, cut and thrust, and SCA heavy. I suspect the small size was to make it easier to hide... and small ones generally don't have a boss.
Bucklers proper usually have a boss, a rigid handle, and can be either rigged so that the boss is where the fingers are, or so that the back is flat with a handle behind. Typical are round or square metal, or multi-layer riveted leather. I much prefer a leather buckler - both more comfortable, and less prone to being damaged.
There are some illustrations of archers or gunners with a small (10-12") shield on their left vambrace. That location won't work nearly as well; my own theory is that it's a variation of the Targe rig, and just slid down for actual defense if engaged. These are mostly early renaissance, and well past what Tolkien uses.
Oh, and Bucklers are generally late era, but Gimli sings of one in LOTR Vol 1, and Vol 2 has mention of them, as well. No descriptions, tho.
