A buckler is a small battle shield. It originated in France and the word is taken from the old French word, “boucle,” which translates as “fist of metal.” This is a very appropriate description of this little weapon that is capable of so much. The “little shield that could ” is often called a boss in English-speaking countries.
Pictures of ancient armies very often show the attackers holding a small shield. The Spartans did not use a full size shield. Historical pictures show the Roman army with boss shields that allow flexibility in using a sword. Roman gladiators often used a small shield for protection. The Saracens obviously used this economical shield in hand-to-hand combat during the crusades.
The use of the buckler is very well understood as it is the most versatile of any weapon. Often the buckler was equipped with a spike in the center which served as a stabbing weapon. It could also deflect thrusts and blows from the opponent’s sword. Protection for the sword hand is vital in a hand-to-hand combat situation; the little shield is effective in this role. The “boss” was also used as a metal boxing glove. The face of the shield or the rim could break a jaw or ribs.
The buckler is often used today in European martial arts to deflect blows from the longsword. It is also an economical alternative to the larger shield if you are considering joining the fight or attending a Faire.