What is kite shield?

The kite shield is a type of shield that was used in medieval times, particularly during the 12th and 13th centuries. It is named for its shape, which is similar to that of a kite, with a narrowing point at the bottom and a wider top.

Kite shields were typically made of wood or metal and were often covered with leather or painted with colorful designs for decorative purposes. They were usually held by a central grip called a boss, which allowed the wielder to easily maneuver the shield and protect themselves in battle.

The size of kite shields varied, with some being large enough to cover the entire body of the wielder, while others were smaller and more maneuverable. They were typically used in conjunction with other weapons such as swords, spears, or axes.

Kite shields were popular among knights and infantry soldiers alike, as they provided excellent protection against both ranged and melee weapons. However, they eventually fell out of favor as armor and tactics evolved, leading to the development of different types of shields and defensive strategies.