Talhoffer Sparring Buckler

Train like the masters of old with the Talhoffer Sparring Buckler — a modern interpretation of the distinctive shield seen in Hans Talhoffer’s Fechtbuch. This version from GDFB is designed for today’s historical fencers, combining authentic form with sparring safety. Strong, balanced, and practical, it carries forward the legacy of medieval dueling while meeting the needs of contemporary sword practitioners.

Inspired by the Fechtbuch of Hans Talhoffer

The Talhoffer buckler is one of the most recognizable shields in medieval martial history, named after the 15th-century fight master Hans Talhoffer. His illustrated combat manual, or Fechtbuch, depicts this buckler in dynamic sword and dagger techniques, valued for its compact size and offensive versatility. Used from the 12th through the 18th centuries, bucklers served both as defense and as striking tools in the art of swordplay — a tradition that continues today through HEMA and classical fencing study.

Product Details

This GDFB Talhoffer Sparring Buckler is constructed with a flat steel face featuring light fluting for added rigidity and a reinforced rim for durability in training. Perfect for I.33 and rapier sparring, it offers excellent balance and hand protection without excessive weight. Designed to be safe for controlled drills and competitive HEMA practice, this buckler is both a functional training tool and a tribute to one of Europe’s most influential fencing masters.