Viking Shield

Historically, Viking shields were made with a wood similar to basswood, and designed to be lightweight with a typical thickness of 1/4", diameter ranging from 24" to 30", and weighing about 7 pounds. Cut for a center grip with a metal shield boss to protect the hand, shields were used to parry rather block. A linen or leather cover greatly increased the durability of the shield by preventing splitting: without linen, a shield would split and become useless after about 4 solid axe blows, with linen, the shield would not split, and could still be used effectively after many more blows.
My goal for this project will be to create an authentic looking shield that is as historically accurate as possible, lightweight, but strong enough to be useful during a Zombie Apocalypse. For the core I will use a combination of 1/8" plywood, 1/8" poplar planks, and canvas, cut to 24" diameter.

Wood Core Scabbard II

Rather than trying to chisel a hollow sheath out of two pieces of 1/4 inch poplar, I realized it would be much easier to build up the interior space using additional wood. The interior space is a little too thick but I will line the top with either lambs wool or leather. Once the wood core is assembled and glued I will be able to shape the cross section into an oval shape.

Scabbard Wood Core

Both halves after chiseling and extensive sanding. Next step is trimming down to size and shaping exterior.

Scabbard Wood Core

Step 1: Poplar wood, 1/4" thick, traced sword outline on both halves and chiseled out core. Next step will be sanding and shaping interior to ensure best fit.