Quick Answer

Choose Norman kite shields for early medieval Norman or Dark Age armies, and medieval heater shields for later medieval forces. Both packs offer plastic replacements for metal shields and work with LBMS transfers.

Shape and Historical Fit

Kite shields are tall and teardrop-shaped, typical of Norman and early medieval warriors. Heater shields are shorter and have a flat top, appearing later in the medieval period. Your army's era and visual style should drive the choice.

Conversion and Replacement Potential

Both packs are separate purchases, so you can use them to replace metal shields with plastic or to carry out conversions without buying full kits. This is handy if you have metal miniatures that need lighter, more uniform shields.

Trade-Offs at a Glance

  • Norman Kite Shields: Choose these for Norman, Viking, or early medieval armies. The kite shape matches the period and pairs with LBMS Norman transfers.
  • Medieval Heater Shields: Choose these for later medieval armies, especially knights or men-at-arms. The flat-top shape suits heraldic designs and pairs with LBMS Medieval transfers.
  • Count and Cost: Both packs are priced at USD 8.04, but heater shields come with 56 pieces versus 48 for kite shields. If you need maximum shields per dollar, heater shields give you more. Decide based on unit size and whether you need spares.

Product Facts

  • Norman Kite Shields x 48: This pack includes 48 shields and is designed to go with the Victrix range of LBMS Norman shield transfers. You get enough shields for a unit and can apply matching transfers for a cohesive look.

    Norman Kite Shields x 48

    Norman Kite Shields x 48

  • Medieval Heater Shields x 56: This pack includes 56 shields and is designed to go with the Victrix range of LBMS Medieval shield transfers. The higher count gives you extra shields for spares or larger units, and the transfers align with medieval heraldry.

    Medieval Heater Shields x 56

    Medieval Heater Shields x 56

Which Should You Choose?

Best For

  • Norman kite shields: Early medieval armies, Norman or Viking-themed forces, and conversions needing a classic teardrop profile.
  • Medieval heater shields: Later medieval armies, knights, and heraldic displays where a flat-top shield is more appropriate.

Not For

  • Norman kite shields: Later medieval armies where heater shields are more historically accurate.
  • Medieval heater shields: Early medieval or Dark Age forces where kite shields are the better visual match.