Great helm

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Early great helms had large flat tops that were vulnerable to crushing blows.

Later great helms had a peaked design.

The great helm of the High Middle Ages arose in the late 12th century in the context of the crusades and remained in use until the 14th century.

In its simplest form, the great helm was a flat-topped cylinder of steel that completely covered the head and had small openings for the eyes and mouth. As great helm design improved the helmets gained more of a curved design to lessen the impact of blows. The great helm offered greater protection than previous helmets but limited the wearer's vision and was uncomfortable. The bascinet that replaced it featured a more convenient hinged face plate.

[edit] External links

• The Medieval Great Helm a historical discussion of great helm developments
• Surviving examples, and illustrations
• The Field of a Shield and the Heraldic Tinctures a discussion of heraldry and great helm crests
• Arador Armour Library design and construction techniques for replica great helms
• Medieval Helm Crests design and construction techniques for helm crests

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