10th century Viking Varangian Rus Slav Gnezdovo Helmet with Butted Chainmail Camail

Description

Step into the age of exploration and trade, the 10th century, when the Rus and Varangian warriors controlled the great river routes between the Baltic and Byzantium. This impressive Gnezdovo Type II helmet is a detailed reproduction of a find discovered near Smolensk, Russia, at the famous Gnezdovo settlement, a key center of Slavic-Varangian craftsmanship and culture.

Finds from Gnezdovo show a unique mix of Scandinavian Viking style and Eastern Slavic design, revealing how the Rus combined Norse strength with Byzantine influence. This helmet captures that spirit with its conical dome, brass nasal guard, and decorative cross-band fittings, faithful to helmets used between the 9th and 10th centuries.

Expertly hand-crafted from 16-gauge mild steel, it includes an extended butted mail camail made from 10 mm 16-gauge steel rings for strong protection to the neck, throat, and shoulders, just like those worn by Rus warriors and Varangian Guards in Constantinople.

Inside, you’ll find a genuine leather liner that adjusts for comfort and a sturdy chin strap with a solid brass buckle to keep the helmet secure. Each helmet is lightly oiled before packaging to prevent rust, ensuring it reaches you in excellent condition, ready for display, or collection.

Whether you’re a Viking enthusiast, a history lover, or a collector, this helmet offers a true link to the legendary warriors who connected the Norse and Byzantine worlds.

Care Instructions:

• Wipe the helmet clean after each use with a soft, dry cloth.

• Apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

• Store in a cool, dry place away from humidity.

• Use a natural leather conditioner occasionally to keep the liner soft and flexible.

Note:

Each Viking Varangian Rus Slav Gnezdovo  helmet is handcrafted using traditional methods, so small variations in finish and texture are natural.