Beyond covering the hand and grip, a shield boss added real structural rigidity to the shield face and, on a round shield without an internal frame, was sometimes the only metal component at all. This large conical boss offers substantial coverage, worked in thick metal for genuine durability and visual presence.
Shield Boss, Large Conical
A shield boss, or umbo, is a round, convex or conical piece of material fitted at the centre of a shield, covering the handgrip while presenting a hardened point that could also serve as an offensive striking surface. This large conical boss offers substantial coverage over the shield’s central handgrip, made of thick metal for genuine protective and structural value. A prominent, imposing centrepiece suited to a full-sized round shield build.
Related products
-
Roman Scutum, Legio XIIII Pattern, Linen Covered
SKU: AH3853LThis traditional Roman scutum is built from painted linen-covered hardwood, decorated in the classic red and yellow pattern associated with Legio XIIII. A wooden brace on the back gives the shield a curve tighter than 9 inches, following genuine scutum construction principles for improved lateral protection. Measuring approximately 42″ x 33″, this reproduction recreates a specific, identifiable legionary unit’s shield markings.
-
Shield Boss, Brass
SKU: AH6752BA shield boss, or umbo, is a round, convex or conical piece of material fitted at the centre of a shield, covering the handgrip while presenting a hardened point that could also serve as an offensive striking surface. This boss is worked in brass, offering a bright, reflective finish distinct from a plain steel build. A decorative centrepiece suited to a shield build prioritising visual presence alongside function.
-
Shield Boss, Compact
SKU: AH6754A shield boss, or umbo, is a round, convex or conical piece of material fitted at the centre of a shield, covering the handgrip while presenting a hardened point that could also serve as an offensive striking surface. This compact boss offers a smaller, lighter option suited to smaller shields or bucklers. Made of thick metal, it retains genuine protective and structural function despite its reduced size.
-
The scutum was the primary form of body protection carried by Roman soldiers, deflecting incoming missiles as well as absorbing the impact of hand-held weapons in close combat. This reproduction recreates the rectangular, semi-cylindrical scutum adopted in the Augustan era, the shield most associated with the ordinary legionary infantryman. Its curved shape improved lateral protection and made it a key element of the testudo formation, the famous shield-wall tactic used against missile fire.
