Shields in the Dawn Lands LARP

In the Dawn Lands LARP, shields are seen as a very potent special ability that is usually reserved for martial classes (though not all martial classes can use shields). Normally shields are considered “unbreakable,” except by a few special abilities. Shields can block most thrown spells. 

The ability to use shields, and which type, is determined by your class. You are limited to the shield options of your class. 

No shield may ever be thrown or used to strike in any way. Shield kicking is not allowed.

Shield Construction

Shields may be made of the following materials: plastic, wood, formed EVA foam (like craft foam). All shields must have any non-foam hard edges covered with a material or technique that eliminates the risk of cuts and scratches. If the edge is still hard and could accidentally make contact and cause injury, it must be padded with at least ½ inch of closed-cell foam (such as EVA foam, camp foam, Pilates mat foam, or similar). Materials like pool noodle foam are acceptable, but must be covered or painted to avoid a modern appearance.

Shields may be held by a center grip (such as a “Viking” shield), a strap and handle, or fastened securely to the arm (as a buckler), or any combination of these methods.

Types of Shields

Large shields: Large shields may not be any larger than: collarbone to upper knee and elbow to elbow (with arms held next to the body). These include Heater shields, Triangular shields, Teardrop shields, etc.

Pavise: a self-supported standing shield. A Pavise is expected to be constructed of a durable and lightweight material, that may be covered or painted to resemble something else. Special care must be taken to ensure a Pavise will not blow over in moderate winds, and any winds that threaten to tip the Pavise should preclude its use. When designing a Pavise you should take precautions that if it should fall on someone during combat it should cause no harm. A Pavise shield may be no more than 36” wide and no taller than the player carrying it.

Round Shields: Round shields may be no larger than 36” diameter at any point. 

Body Shields/Tower Shields: Also known as a Roman (or Reman in the Dawn Lands LARP) Scutum, tower shields may be no larger than 36” wide and from ankle to top of head. 

Medium Shields: Whether round or some other shape, these shields are something near shoulder to shoulder and chin to waist.

Small Shields: These shields are normally Teardrop, Heater, round, or Triangular in shape. They should be no longer than shoulder to shoulder and chin to lower chest.

Bucklers: These are small shields that can be held in the off hand, or they may buckle onto the arm securely so as not to occupy the hand. If attaching a Buckler to the arm, special attention must be taken in construction to ensure it does not twist on the arm when taking hits. Bucklers are 6-18 inches across the longest dimension.