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WABUKAN Arsenal · Shields · Europe

Targe

The round, strapped shield of the Scottish Highlanders, used with the broadsword from the late 16th century until Culloden in 1746.

Targe
Targe WABUKAN illustration

Also known as

targaid (Scottish Gaelic); Highland targe

Origin and history

The targe was the shield of the Highland clans. In February 1596 John Grant of Freuchie gathered 500 men, 40 of them armed with bows, helmets, swords and targes. It remained in use until the Battle of Culloden in 1746, after which an amendment to the Disarming Act banned it. The word comes from the Frankish targa; its diminutive gave English the word "target".

Martial arts that use it

Seen in traditional practice, historical reenactment and demonstrations; no art page on WABUKAN yet.

Construction

A slightly concave disc about 45 to 55 cm across, built from two thin layers of wooden boards laid with the grain at right angles, covered in leather fixed with many brass (sometimes silver) nails, often with a brass central boss. At the back, one strap was buckled round the forearm and a second was held in the hand.

Basic techniques

Training

Shield work starts with how to hold and carry it: the grip, keeping it between you and the opponent, and moving behind it without dropping the guard. Blocks, covers and pushes are then drilled with a partner using wooden or padded weapons, slowly at first.

Safety

Check straps, grips and the rim before each session: a loose strap or a split board can injure the hand. Keep the top edge of the shield away from your partner’s face and wear a helmet for any contact work.

Legality (general information)

This is training or traditional equipment, not a weapon, and is generally free to buy and own. Clubs and federations may still set rules on approved models and condition. General information, not legal advice.

Did you know?

It was common to hold a dirk in the targe hand, with the blade sticking out below the shield.

More weapons

Dhal Scutum Aspis (hoplon) Buckler Tinbe-rochin

Sources

Original WABUKAN text, written from these cross-checked sources (facts, not sentences).

  1. Wikipedia — Targe