Hounskull Bascinet Helmet c. 1390 – 16 ga Steel

Few helmets are as instantly recognizable as the Hounskull bascinet. With its pointed visor projecting forward like a hound’s skull, this design offered excellent facial protection while helping deflect weapon points—an iconic silhouette of late medieval warfare. This faithful reproduction combines authentic lines with durable construction: its plates are meticulously riveted together, and the visor is hinged for movement and can be fully removed when desired.

The look is finished with striking brass bands along the visor opening and bottom rim, secured with rivets for a bold contrast against the steel. Whether you’re outfitting a knightly kit for reenactment, building a HEMA impression, or adding a centerpiece to your collection, this helmet delivers a commanding late-14th-century presence.

The Hounskull (also known as the Hundsgugel) is a visored bascinet style that rose to prominence in the late 14th century and remained popular across Central Europe into the early 15th century, roughly until around 1420. Its elongated visor provided enhanced protection against cuts and thrusts, while the conical profile helped guide impacts away from the face. Ventilation perforations improved airflow—especially important during exertion in full harness—and many helmets were personalized with paintwork or crests to aid recognition in battle.

Features

• Historically inspired replica based on a Milanese original dated c. 1390 AD
• 1.6mm steel construction (16 Gauge) with riveted plates
• Iconic “hound’s skull” visor with ventilation holes for improved airflow
• Movable visor on side hinges
• Fully detachable visor secured by a chain and pin mechanism (right side)
• Brass bands on visor aperture and bottom rim for a striking contrast
• Leather liner and leather chin strap for comfort and secure fit
• Ideal for reenactment, HEMA, LARP, display, and costuming

Specifications

• Type: Hounskull / Hundsgugel Bascinet Helmet
• Era / Style: Late Medieval (c. 1390–early 1400s)
• Material: Steel with brass fittings
• Steel Thickness: 1.6mm (approx. 0.063 in)
• Finish: Smooth metallic silver
• Visor: Hinged, movable, and fully detachable (chain & pin retention)
• Ventilation: Perforated visor for airflow
• Interior: Leather liner
• Retention: Leather chin strap
• Max Head Circumference: Up to 61 cm (approx. 24.0 in)
• Internal Dimensions: Approx. 21.5 cm (front-to-back) x 19.5 cm (side-to-side) (approx. 8.5 in x 7.7 in)
• Overall Height: Approx. 25 cm (approx. 9.8 in)
• Weight: Approx. 2.7 kg (approx. 6.0 lb)

How You Can Use This Helmet

• Reenactment & Historical Martial Arts: A solid 1.6mm-steel foundation for a late 14th-century impression (always check your group’s safety regulations before contact use).
• LARP: Perfect for elevating a knight or men-at-arms kit with an iconic visor profile.
• Display: A dramatic centerpiece for a collection, office, study, or great hall décor.
• Costumes & Production: Excellent for theatre, film, photography, and themed events.

Did You Know?

The term “Hounskull” comes from the German “Hundsgugel”—often interpreted as “hound’s hood/head.” The nickname may have started as playful or mocking, but it became the common name for this distinctive visor style—and the helmet itself—thanks to its unmistakable profile and real battlefield practicality.

Caring for Your Helmet

• Store dry: Keep in a low-humidity area to prevent rust.
• Wipe down after use: Dry the steel exterior and lightly wipe the leather liner after wear.
• Prevent rust: Apply a thin coat of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol, or gun oil) before storage or after moisture exposure.
• Leather maintenance: Use leather conditioner occasionally to help prevent drying or cracking.

Acquire a piece of knightly history with a helmet style that defined the late medieval battlefield. This Hounskull Bascinet combines authentic 14th-century design cues—detachable visor, ventilation perforations, and riveted construction—with comfort features like a leather liner and chin strap. A powerful choice for reenactors, collectors, and anyone who wants an iconic medieval centerpiece.