Gnezdovo Type II Viking-Rus Helmet with Butted Chainmail Camail (10th Century)

Embrace the age of conquest and trade, the 10th century, when the Rus and Varangian warriors ruled the great river routes between Baltic and Byzantium. This Gnezdovo Type II helmet is a reproduction of an archaeological find unearthed near Smolensk, Russia, at the legendary Gnezdovo settlement, a hub of Slavic-Varangian culture .

Artifacts from Gnezdovo reveal a rare fusion of Scandinavian Viking design and Eastern Slavic artistry, showing how warriors of the Rus blended Nordic courage with Byzantine sophistication. Our helmet has a conical dome, bold brass nasal guard and ornate cross-band , like helmets dated between the 9th and 10th centuries.

Handcrafted from 16-gauge mild steel, it has an extended butted mail camail, made from 10 mm 16-gauge steel rings, protects the neck, throat and shoulders, as seen in historical examples used by Rus mercenaries and Varangian Guards serving in Constantinople.

Inside, a genuine adjustable leather liner is fitted for comfort and a secure chin strap with a solid brass buckle. The surface is lightly oiled before packaging to prevent oxidation, ensuring your helmet arrives in pristine condition ready for display or use.

Whether you are a Viking enthusiast or a collector of fine medieval arms, this connects you directly to the heroic legacy of the Varangian routes.

Care Instructions:

• Wipe it clean after each use with a soft, dry cloth.

• Apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

• Store in a dry, ventilated space away from moisture or humidity.

• For the leather liner, occasionally apply natural leather conditioner to maintain flexibility and longevity.

Note:

This helmet is hand-crafted with traditional techniques, and minor variations in finish and texture reflect its authentic handcrafted nature.