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Lantern ShieldA lantern shield is a very unusual weapon/shield design that was used in Italy between the 16th and 17th centuries. Both for attack and defense, there were enough tools imbedded in the design that some might call it an Italian "Swiss-army-shield". Born of the need to protect ones self from the increasingly frequent night time muggings, it was based around a small metal buckler some 30 cm in diameter. The buckler was affixed to the wearer by a small strap to the forearm; in addition, a metal gauntlet was build into the far end of the shield, and affixed with some long serrated spikes to help catch and break enemy blades. Beneath this odd complex of shield and spiked glove, was a long sword blade, which paralleled the wearer's arm. It extended in front of the shield by some 30 cm and behind the shield to the wearer's elbow, and was pointed for thrusting. On the face of the shield a short spike was affixed to be used for short thrusts. And lastly occasionally lanterns were built into the top portion of the shield, with a flap that could be used to hide the light. The idea was upon being attacked to flip the lantern open and blind the opponent in the dark of night. The effectiveness of such an elaborate setup is questionable.
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