Historia Normannis High Constable Wargear Regulations · 2018. 11. 7. · Historia Normannis - High Constable – Scottish Supplement 4 The Three Estates Laboratores (Those who work)-Non

Historia Normannis

High Constable Wargear Regulations

Supplement 1: Scottish Specific Ranks and Kit v2.2 (Bellatores)

Historia Normannis - High Constable – Scottish Supplement

2

Index Introduction and Legal Information

The Three Estates

Constabulary Information and Contact

Scottish Regions and Ranks

Wargear by Rank

Normano-Scots Ranks

Archer Ranks

Scots Bowman (A)

Scots Levy Archer (A)

Scots Garrison Archer (A)

Infantry Ranks

Scots Levy

Scots Militia

Gaelic-Scots Ranks

Archer Ranks

Sealgair (A)

Boghadair (A)

Boghadair Cath (A)

Gall-Boghadair (A)

Boghadair Cagalor (A)

Infantry Ranks

Fear-cinnidh

Laoch

Gall-Laoch

Laoch Cagalor

Sealgair Mor

Octhigern

Toisech

Toisech Mor

Flaith

Wargear Definitions and Regulations

Celtic Sword

Seax

Langseax

Roundshields Celtic Helms

Leather Jack


3

Introduction The Scots Specific Ranks and Kit outlines all the equipment and specific military ranks that

applies to Scottish groups and members. Any equipment that is listed in glossary in the main

Wargear Regulations is not repeated here- however a glossary of Scots Specific Kit is

included at the bottom of the document.

A second (new) document, the Scottish Field Manual outlines Scottish orders, field combat

styles, and other useful information.

As of this edition I’ve added more traditional Scots terms (replacing most English terms with

synonymous Scots Gaelic terms). There has also been a T1 combat archer rank added in line

with the master Normannis documents, as this was omitted by oversight- to clarify there is

now a T1 combat and T1 non-combat archer rank.

The tables have been updated and small errors have been removed (special thanks to James

Cheese for helping with the painstaking compare-and-revise proof reading).

-Daniel FitzEdward

Head of Historia Normannis, High Constable 2015

Legal Information All information and graphics contained within is the original work of Daniel FitzEdward, or

other members of the media team, unless specifically stated otherwise. All information is

thereby property of Historia Normannis, and may be reproduced in part or in entirety by its

members for the purposes of informing, educating or referencing within the society or

liaising with event organisers.

The information within is not to be reproduced in part or in entirety for the benefit of those

outside the organisation without the express permission of Historia Normannis.


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The Three Estates

Laboratores (Those who work) - Non-combative members who are not part of the Ecclesiastic structure

fall into this section, as well as combat members when not participating in military

displays/activities. See the Laboratores & Encampment Regulations for more information

about this estate.

Oratores (Those who pray) - Members who are part of the Ecclesiastical and Monastic displays within

the society. See the Ecclesiastical & Holy Orders regulations for further details on this estate.

Bellatores (Those who fight) - Members who are part of the military displays and combat within the

society. This is what this document covers specifically.


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Constabulary Structure At each level of the society there is a person responsible for melee and ranged combat-

structured as follows;


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Bellatores Contact Details

High Constable Daniel FitzEdward - ([email protected])

Marshals Paul Blakey- England- ([email protected]) Jim Fanning (Acting)- Wales- ([email protected])

Daniel FitzEdward (Acting)- Scotland- ([email protected])

Constables By Region

England

Westmorland- Sarah “Pinky” Porthouse ([email protected])

Lancashire – Michael Nicholls ([email protected])

Yorkshire – Joseph Clark ([email protected])

West Mercia – (Acting) Gareth Davies ([email protected])

North Mercia- Alex Smith ([email protected])

South Mercia- Dominic Abbott ([email protected])

Sussex – James Hutchinson ([email protected])

Wessex- Gary Colling ([email protected])

Scotland

Lalians- Luke Dawson- ([email protected])

Wales

Glamorgan- Gareth Davies ([email protected])

Master Herald Philip Roebuck - ([email protected])

mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]


7

Scottish Regions and Ranks


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Green Region Cell Groups The regions marked in green,

representing the most

‘Normanised’ regions, have the

most Normannis-standard

structure.

The standard Normannis cell

structure remains the same,

with the replacement of the

ranks Levy, Levy Archer,

Militia and Garrison Archer

with the Normano-Scots ranks

outlined below. These are

similar to their Anglo-Norman

counterparts, but with

ethnically distinct equipment as

marked on their rank tables.

The cell group structure

remains otherwise the same.

Yellow Region Cell-Groups The regions marked in yellow are the areas where the ethnic Scottish ways

predominated, but with an ‘overlay’ of Normano-Scots nobility. These groups replace

the first three ranks with the Scottish-specific ranks listed below- so that their rank

structure runs- Clansmen, Laoch, Gall-Laoch, Serjeant, Squire, Knight.

Red Region Cell-Groups The regions marked in red were not directly changed by the emergence of the

Norman model of feudalism- and remained entirely clan-based in structure. Groups

in these regions maintain the full run of Scottish ranks below.


9

Normano-Scots Military Ranks


10

Normano-Scots Ranks The infrastructure of these regions was decidedly Franco-Norman feudalism, but it

was on the traditional Scottish structure that it was built- this gave Scottish urban

forces a similar ‘blueprint’ to their Anglo and Franco-Norman counterparts, but with

the distinct regional variations that came with Scottish military traditions.

Scottish Bowman (A) (T1) Those members of the levy unable or unwilling to furnish themselves for close

combat, but instead armed with a bow and arrows only. Able to garrison positions or

provide support from behind large blocks of men, they were otherwise unable to

engage the enemy in close quarters.

Scottish Levy Archer (A) (T1) These members represent some of the lightest-equipped troops in a given force, and

would have been employed for skirmishing, scouting or light support roles, being

equipped with some form of melee weapon as well as a ranged weapon.

Sottish Levy (T1) These members represent the rural levy- and as such they would largely be farmers

with little practical military experience and without the training and equipment

infrastructure found in cities such as Edinburgh.

Scottish Militia Archer (A) (T2) The militia system that emerged in cities and urban areas was designed to produce

garrison troops- as such a large number of equipped and trained archers were

considered an important asset, both in defending towns and supporting heavier

troops.

Scottish Militia (T2)

The militia represent those forces raised from towns and urban centres. These men

had better, formalised access to training and equipment, and would attend regular

military drill (around once a month). These were the preferred troops to provide

medium infantry on campaign- being considered more reliable than the general levy.


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Wargear by Rank


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The information contained in this section explains what kit is allowable for which rank, as

well as stating the ‘required minimum’ kit impression- that is, the kit a member must have to

be considered as portraying that given rank.

Unlike previous seasons, the ‘Unacceptable’ column has been removed from each rank; any

equipment not listed explicitly is assumed to be ‘unacceptable’.

Due to the new arrangement of the information, archer ranks are now integrated into the list

and are marked with an (A) after their name.

Normano-Scots Ranks Scottish Feudal Troops Scottish Bowman (A)

Scottish Levy Archer (A)

Scottish Levy

Scottish Garrison Archer (A)

Scottish Militia


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Archer Ranks


14

Scottish Bowman (A)

Rank at a Glance

Scottish bowmen are non-combat archers, and

as such do not participate in the melee

aspect of combat displays, therefore it is

generally not advisable that they carry

and perceivable hand-weapons other

than, perhaps, a long-knife slung

from the belt. This is also the de-

facto rank for any members aged

14-16 who take part in the archery

phase of combat.

Despite being an item of

clothing the hood is listed as

ideal, as it neatly completes the

kit impression as well as helping

conceal female members

shooting; for a description of the

item refer to the clothing regulations.

Please note as the rank is a non-

combative one, it is the only rank listed that

does not require the member to wear some form of

hand protection.

Equipment Minimum Ideal Acceptable

Head - Hood Arming Cap

Body - - -

Legs - Winningas -

Additional Gear Arrows/Quarrels (6) Waist-belt

Arrows/Quarrels (12) Hip-quiver/Bolt-box

Leather gloves

Weapons Bow/Crossbow Selfbow Warbow/Crossbow Long-knife/Seax

Shield - - -


15

Scottish Levy Archer (A)

Rank at a Glance

Levy Archers represent those men of the general levy who were primarily equipped

with bows and crossbows to fight. These weapons proved invaluable in

the defence of garrison towns and castles- and were widely used both

north and south of the border.

Members of this rank are ‘combat archers’- that is they take part

in both the archery and subsequent melee phases of combat.

As such they require the basic combat gear necessary to

fight and to shoot. Members with crossbows are advised to

use padded leather or woollen mufflers as they can still

operate their crossbow in such gloves. Bow-users

are advised to either modify leather mufflers or

use a pair of leather combat gloves to allow them to

use their bow effectively.

Wherever possible Scottish Levy Archers should

practise switching between their chosen bow-weapon

and melee weapon, and ensure they can do quickly

when required to at events.


Head - Celtic Helm Skullcap/Nasal Helm

Body - Leather Jack Light Gambeson

Legs - Winningas -

Additional Gear Arrows/Quarrels (6) Combat Gloves

Waist-belt

Arrows/Quarrels (12) Combat Gloves

Hip-quiver/Bolt Box

-

Weapons Bow/Crossbow Spear/Polearm

Selfbow/Crossbow Bill/Spear

Warbow, Long-knife/Seax

Lance/Langseax/Warclub Hand-axe/Long-axe

Shield Roundshield (if using a single-

handed weapon in melee)

Roundshield (Not worn when shooting)

Soldier’s Kite (not worn when

shooting)


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Scottish Garrison Archer (A)

Rank at a Glance Garrison archers are those men who fulfilled their military quarantine by

performing guard duty in castles and cities, furnishing themselves with crossbows or

bows. They would have opportunity to train and practise, and would have access to

some disposable income to allow for acquiring armour.

These members should represent the general line archer- and for

preference should fight with polearms and a back slung shield - if

members do fight with melee equipment they must

furnish themselves with a single-handed spear in addition

to a hand-weapon to meet the requirements of the

Assize of Arms.


Head Arming Cap (no body armour)

Skullcap/Nasal Helm Celtic Helm

Body - Light Gambeson Leather Jack

Legs - Winningas -


Hip-quiver/Bolt-box


Hip-quiver/Bolt Box

-

Weapons Bow/Crossbow Polearm/Spear

Selfbow/Crossbow Spear, Long-axe

Seax (as secondary)

Warbow Long-Knife/Langseax,

Lance Warclub, Hand-axe, Bill

Shield Roundshield (if using single-handed

weapon in melee)

Roundshield (not worn when shooting)

Soldier’s Kite (not worn when shooting)


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Infantry Ranks


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Scottish Levy

Rank at a Glance Levy members represent those poorer freemen who would answer a

general summons to arms; some of whom managed to reach

the minimum requirements laid down in the Assize of

Arms, and some of whom did not.

This is the ‘starter rank’ for most members - some

members may wish to remain as such due to the low kit

requirements. In the normal course of events once a

member has attended a few events they are usually

eligible for progression to Militia if they so wish.

Ideally members should seek to begin acquiring the

light gambeson, helm and arming cap ideal for the rank

towards the end of their first season of shows, allowing for

them to progress to Militia.


Head - Celtic Helm Skullcap/Nasal Helm

Body - Light Gambeson Leather Jack

Legs - Winningas -

Additional Gear Combat Gloves

Combat Gloves Padded Leather/Wool

Mufflers

-

Weapons Polearm/Spear Spear/Lance, Bill, Long-knife/

Hand-axe

Seax, Long-axe Langseax

Shield Roundshield Roundshield Soldier’s Kite


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Scottish Militia

Rank at a Glance Militia as Normannis represents them would make up the bulk of most ‘levied’ forces

from the Freemen of the realm. This is the ‘default’ military rank for members

who take part in the military displays of Normannis.

Please note that as of the 2014-2015 the equipment listed allows for

a range of kit impressions- allowing for a more ‘professional and

affluent’ militia impression. Those members being put

forward for Serviens should seek to acquire the maille

listed in the ‘Acceptable’ column.


Head Skullcap Helm Nasal/Skullcap Helm Celtic Helm

Body Leather Jack Light Gambeson Full gambeson Maille Corslet

(over either gambeson)

Legs - Winningas -


Combat Gloves Padded Mufflers

(with Full Gambeson)

Padded Leather/Wool Mufflers

Weapons Polearm/Spear Spear/Bill/ Lance, Hand-axe, Long-axe,

Langseax Seax

Proto-falchion, Long-knife (as primary/secondary)

Fauchard/Warclub



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Gaelic-Scots Ranks


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Gaelic-Scots military society was divided into three distinct groups- Clan Levies Military service was an integral part of medieval life across the British Isles, long

before the coming of the Normans or even the Romans. Celtic society expected every

man between 14 and 50 to fight at a moment’s notice- either in inter-regional or

national warfare. Typically these men provided themselves with spears, shields and

bows, the staples of Celtic warfare, though in Scotland lingering Saxon and

Scandinavian influence had also left cultural traces in the form of hand-axes, seaxes

and polearms.

Mercenaries and Household The term mercenary has a very broad definition in medieval parlance- it means any

man who fights for pay, rather than for a feudal obligation. These men could be

foreigners who travelled to local conflicts to find employment, but equally local men

who had attained arms and the skill to use them could charge for their service. In

modern terms all professional soldiers would be considered ‘mercenaries’ by the

medieval definition. Members of the clan leadership’s household were, technically,

mercenaries (in that they would receive cash reward for their service), but this was

less regular payments as much as periodic reward when times were good.

In Scotland these men would often be from a different clan or region than then one

in which they presently served, though Gaelic Irish and North-Sea Scandinavian

troops would not have been unknown.

Clan Nobility The traditional ruling class of Scotland- these men blended elements of Anglo-Saxon,

Hiberno-Norse and traditional Celtic notions of leadership into a complex

conceptional model somewhere between a chieftain and a jarl. The military aspect of

all these cultures necessitated a war-like countenance, if not in practise then at least

in theory, and these men were highly resistant to the modern Norman-model

‘imported’ nobility increasingly present in Royal lands. Their households were

usually formed from the second-sons and cousins of their immediate family, creating

a complex web of authority and family that shaped the concept of the ‘clans’.


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Gaelic-Scots Ranks Clan Levies Sealgair (A)

Boghadair (A)

Fear-cinnidh

Boghadair Cath (A)

Laoch

Mercenaries and Household Gall-Boghadair (A)

Gall-Laoch

Boghadair-Cagalor (A)

Laoch-Cagalor Sealgair Mor (A) Clan Nobility Octhigern

Toisech

Toisech Mor

Flaith


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Clan Levies Sealgair (A) T1 Clansmen who hunted for their living, and therefore avoided hand-to-hand combat in

preference of their skills with bow. These men would be used to stalking and

shooting a single accurate shot, and would be of most value scouting for the army

and providing forage.

Boghadair (A) T1 The catch-all term for freemen who were members of the Scottish clan system and

wielded a bow when on campaign as their primary weapon.

Fear-cinnidh T1

The catch-all term for freemen who were members of the Scottish clan system- these

men would be drovers, farmers and fishermen by tradition, and would fight

whenever called upon by their Thane.

Boghadair Cath (A) T2

A Fear-cinnidh who has focused their martial skills on the use of the bow- and had

practised the use of it in combat. These men would have other primary occupations,

but if called on could use both their bow and their other weapons to good effect.

Laoch (T2)

The term Laoch roughly translates into ‘warrior’, and reflected that these men, whilst

having other primary occupations, were experienced, and prepared, for war.


24

Mercenaries and Household Gall-Boghadair (A) (T3)

Archers, usually of a Scandinavian background, who sold their services with a bow or

crossbow in return for money. These men would be consummate professionals,

usually hired for skirmishes at sea, where their skills were highly valued before ships

closed contact.

Gall-Laoch (T3)

The mercenaries present in Scotland varied in ethnic background from some

Northern Englishmen to Scandinavian to native Scots who sold their services to the

highest bidder. These men were usually more experienced and reliable than their

contemporary levied troops.

Boghadair Cagalor (T4)

Archers who were members of the local Toisech (or Thane)’s warband- utilising the

bow for loose-formation fighting and skirmishing in areas where the terrain favoured

broken formation skirmish-tactics as much as direct conflict. These men were often

found in walled settlements where their skills were useful in defending the walls and

gates.

Laoch-Cagalor (T4)

Men sworn to their Toisech (or Thane) had a similar relationship to Anglo-Saxon

Huscarls- they were kept by their lord, would live within his extended dwelling, and

serve him in war. These men had close blood ties to the Toisech and treated warfare

as a way of life.

Sealgear-Mor (A) (T5)

Literally the ‘great huntsmen’- the head Sealgair and part of the Toisech’s household,

this man would be highly skilled with a bow and coordinate other bowmen on behalf

of his chieftain.


25

Clan Nobility Octhigern (T5) Members of the Toisech’s family who also served as the foremost members of his

Laoch-Cagalor; usually second-cousins and nephews. These men would treat warfare

as a way of life, as well as trying to prove themselves and their ability to one day lead

the clan.

Toisech (T6) A term anglicised to ‘Thane’- these men were the clan chieftains, owning lands and

wielding authority through blood-ties and tradition. Their weapons and armour

would be, in some cases, almost indiscernible from their Normano-Scots

counterparts.

Toisech-Mor (T7) A term anglicised to ‘Great Thane’- these men were the foremost clan chieftains in

their lands- leading large clans that might sprawl across several different settlements

and include ‘sub chiefs’ who answered to the Toisech Mor.

Flaith (T8)

A term anglicised to ‘Baron’ or ‘Overlord’- these men were the overarching authority

in their lands- leading groups of clans in war and peace. These men were often

wealthy and affected some Norman luxuries, but would remain relatively aloof from

the Normanised world until the end of the 13th century.


26

Archer Ranks


27

Sealgair (A)


Head - Hood -

Body - - -

Legs - - Winningas

Additional Gear Arrows/Quarrels (6) Waist-belt

Arrows/Quarrels (12) Hip-quiver/Bolt-box

Brown leather gloves

Weapon Bow/Crossbow Selfbow Warbow/Crossbow Long-knife/Seax (worn at belt)

Shield - - -

Rank at a Glance Some clansmen would be hunters by trade- and when

marching to war would take only their bow with

them. These men would not be experienced

warriors, but would instead be excellent

trackers, hunters and woodsmen, serving the

force more as a scout and hunting for forage

rather than as a dedicated field archer.

As these members are non-combat

archers they are not required to wear any

kind of hand-protection, to better nock

and draw.


28

Boghadair (A)

Rank at a Glance Unlike Huntsmen, who represent men who hunted for a living and

were unable or unwilling to furnish themselves with close-combat

weapons, these men represent those men who actively used the bow

as their weapon of choice.

These men would be drovers and farmers most of the year

round, but during conflicts would campaign across the summer

to return home for the harvest or droving season.

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to wear a leather jack

as armour- but it must be worn with a

helm.


Head - Hood/Arming Cap (without body armour)

Celtic Helm

Body - None Light Gambeson Leather Jack

Legs - - Winningas


Waist-belt


Hip-quiver/Bolt-box

Padded Leather Mufflers

Weapon Bow/Crossbow Spear/Polearm

Selfbow Spear/Bill

Seax (as secondary)

Warbow/Crossbow Lance

Long-knife Hand-axe/Langseax


weapon in melee)

Roundshield (not worn when

shooting)

-


29

Boghadair Cath (A)

Rank at a Glance Literally translating as ‘war bowmen’, this rank represents men skilled

with the use of the bow that chose it as their primary weapon. The

skirmish-and-ambush style of Scots combat suited their weapon

perfectly, as loose formations of men could be locked down, dogged

or even eliminated by bows from a distance. Due to their

experience of warfare these men would often wear light armour

and carry melee weapons with which they were also

accustomed, acting as an all-purpose soldier on campaign.

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to wear a

leather jack as armour- but it must be worn with a helm.


Head - Celtic Helm

Arming Cap (without body armour)


-

Legs - - Winningas


Waist-belt


Hip-quiver/Bolt-box



Selfbow Spear/Bill

Seax (as secondary)

Warbow/Crossbow Lance

Long-knife Hand-axe/Langseax


weapon in melee)

Roundshield (not worn when

shooting)

-


30

Gall-Boghadair (A)

Rank at a Glance The term Gall-Boghadair translates roughly as ‘foreign archer’- this would be

synonymous with mercenaries armed with bows. Mercenaries were an ever-present

group in most countries- and due to the endemic border and inter-clan warfare in

Scotland, were a common sight. Some of these men would be Scots from other

regions of the country, or Flemish, Northern English or Scandinavian in origin.

Members portraying this rank are encouraged to explore an ‘ethnic’ impression on

the Encampment and battlefield, and engage in further research on such cultures

and languages.

These men were of great use, but equally considered

ultimately expendable.

Archers were in high demand in 12th century

warfare- especially armoured and well-trained

professionals who could support formations of infantry,

drive back cavalry on rough terrain, attack or defend in siege

warfare and, crucially in Scottish warfare, be used in ship-based

warfare and raiding.


Head Celtic Helm Celtic Helm

Nasal/Skullcap Helm

Body Light Gambeson Full Gambeson Leather Jack (worn over full gambeson)

Legs - - Winningas


Waist-belt


Hip-quiver/Bolt-box



Warbow/Crossbow Spear, Bill/Glaive,

Seax (as secondary)

Selfbow Langseax/Long-knife/Hand-axe

Lance, Celtic Sword/Sword


weapon in melee)


Roundshield (worn when shooting)

-


31

Boghadair Cagalor (A)

Rank at a Glance Some Scottish terrain favoured the bow much more than the

spear or sword, and as such many warriors were as skilled

with the bow as with their hand-weapons.

Whilst dedicated use of the bow was sometimes

sneered at by their peers, and not as popular as the use

of the axe and the sword, some bowmen made their

way into the households of clan nobility. These men

were useful in defending walled settlements,

skirmishing around the flanks of formations and

bringing down enemy skirmishers in battle.

Members of this rank represent the first level of

‘hearth-troop’- albeit the lighter-armed skirmish

element of such forces.

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to wear a

leather jack over their armour- but it must be worn

with a helm.


Head Celtic Helm Celtic Helm

Nasal/Skullcap Helm

Body Full Gambeson Leather Jack (over full gambeson)

Full Gambeson Maille Corslet

(over either gambeson)

Legs - - Winningas


Waist-belt


Hip-quiver/Bolt-box

Padded Leather Mufflers Padded Mufflers

Weapon Warbow/Crossbow

Warbow Lance, Celtic Sword Seax (as secondary)

Crossbow Long-knife (as secondary)

Langseax/Hand-axe/Glaive Long-axe/Spear

Shield Roundshield

Roundshield Soldier’s Kite


32

Sealgair Mor (A)

Rank at a Glance Most important Toisechs would have a huntsman as part of their household-

the man who managed the local forested areas and acted as gamekeeper, as

well as providing meat for the lord’s table.

These men would be well-versed with a bow, familiar with woodlands

and familiar with the local land, and therefore were a natural choice

when the clan’s archers required a captain. As a member of the

Toisech’s household they could usually afford wargear of

some value, and would have experience of campaigning and

raiding.


Head Celtic Helm Celtic Helm Nasal/Skullcap Helm

Body Maille Corslet Maille Corslet (over full gambeson)

Maille Haubergion Leather Jack over maille

Legs - - Winningas


Waist-belt


Hip-quiver/Bolt-box

Padded Leather Mufflers Padded Mufflers

Weapon Warbow/Crossbow Hand-weapon

Warbow Lance, Celtic Sword Seax (as secondary)

Crossbow Long-knife (as secondary)

Langseax/Hand-axe

Shield Roundshield


Roundshield (worn when shooting)


33

Infantry Ranks


34

Fear-cinnidh

Rank at a Glance The term Fear-cinnidh translates as “man of the clan/tribe”- used in

a similar manner as the defacto Anglo-Norman term “freeman”.

Most male members of the clan would be expected to fight in

blood-feuds, border disputes, or on campaign when their lords were

called on.

These men were not soldiers by trade- but would have some very

limited experience of war and basic wargear.

These members are representing the bulk of Clan forces- those

men who would give weight to formations but not expected to

stand up to direct combat with more professional or well-equipped

forces.

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to wear a leather jack as

armour- but it must be worn with a helm.


Head - Celtic Helm Skullcap/Nasal


-

Legs - - Winningas


Combat Gloves


Weapon Lance/Spear Spear/Lance/Bill Long-axe /Hand-axe

Long-knife/Seax

Langseax

Shield Roundshield Roundshield

-


35

Laoch

Rank at a Glance The term ‘Laoch’ was roughly synonymous with ‘soldier’ in most Celtic countries-

poetically alluding to the most common weapon of such men.

These members represent the bulk of ‘clan’ forces- men with some military

experience from raiding or local feuding warfare, but who followed other

occupations as their primary concern.

These men would be drovers and farmers most of the year round, but during

conflicts would campaign across the summer to return home for the harvest or

droving season.

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to wear a leather jack as armour- but it

must be worn with a helm.


Head Celtic Helm Celtic Helm Skullcap/Nasal Helm

Body Leather Jack Light Gambeson Maille Corselet

(over leather jack)

Full Gambeson Maille Corselet

(over full gambeson)

Legs - - Winningas


Combat Gloves


Weapon Spear/Polearm Spear/Lance/Polearm, Langseax/Hand-axe

Seax (primary/secondary)

Long-knife

Shield Roundshield Roundshield

Soldier’s Kite


36

Gall-Laoch

Rank at a Glance The term Gall-Laoch literally means, “foreign soldier”- which is roughly synonymous

to the term mercenary. Mercenaries were an ever-present group in

most countries- and due to the endemic border and inter-clan

warfare in Scotland, were a common sight. Some of these men

would be Scots from other regions of the country, or Flemish,

Northern English or Scandinavian in origin. Members

portraying this rank are encouraged to explore an ‘ethnic’

impression on the Encampment and battlefield, and

engage in further research on such cultures and

languages.

The most common mercenaries in Scotland were

heavy infantry wielding axes or swords- men

designed to stiffen the ranks of Clan levies and

challenge heavily armoured horsemen.

In later years the Irish would hire large numbers

of such men, of Norse and Scotio-Norse origin, to

contend with the heavy Norman cavalry. Such

men were called ‘Galloch-Glaich’’, or

‘Gallowglass’, which meant literally, ‘Scottish

Axeman’.


Head Celtic Helm Celtic Helm Nasal Helm

Body Maille Corselet (over leather jack)

Maille Corselet (with ventailed coif over full gambeson)

Maille Haubergion

Legs - - Winningas


Combat Gloves


Weapon Spear/Polearm Spear/Lance Long-axe/ Sword

Seax (as secondary)

Ball Mace, Hand-axe, Bill/Glaive, Celtic Sword, Langseax,

Long-knife (as secondary)

Shield Roundshield Soldier’s Kite

Transitional Kite/Roundshield


37

Laoch Cagalor

Rank at a Glance Toisechs would maintain a group of armed retainers, much in the same way as the

Anglo-Saxon lords would have a company of Huscarls. These men were sworn to

their lord’s service, and were honour bound to him.

Whilst not formally paid for their services, nor granted lands, these men received

social status and a share of their lord’s wealth and spoils. As such they had a vested

interest in their lord’s fortunes.

Members of this rank are representing almost a

military body-guard- men who were expected to

keep their lord alive and make up an easily

mobilised, quickly-deployed and highly

professional fighting force- the ‘heavy hitters’ of

clan warfare.



Body Maille Haubergion

Maille Haubergion (with ventailed coif)

Early Hauberk Leather Jack worn over maille

Legs - - Winningas


Padded mufflers Padded Leather Mufflers

Weapon Spear/Polearm Sword (either)

Spear/Lance/ Long-axe Celtic Sword/Sword Seax (as secondary)

Ball Mace, Hand-axe, Glaive, Langseax,




38

Octhigern

Rank at a Glance Octhigerns were members of the

Toisech’s family- usually cousins and

nephews. These men, with their blood ties

to the lord, were considered ‘lesser lords’ in

their own right, as well as serving the Toisech

in a similar capacity to knights in Franco-

European feudalism.

These men would treat warfare as a way of life,

and be well-equipped for battle.

Members portraying this rank represent the

warrior elite of the clan system- men who would

fight for most of their life and look to inherit

their own lands and sects of the clan in time.




Early Hauberk (with ventail)

Maille Haubergion (with ventailed coif)

Leather Jack worn over maille

Legs - - Winningas




Spear/Lance, Dane-axe Celtic Sword/Sword Seax (as secondary)

Ball Mace, Hand-axe, Long-knife (as secondary)

Shield Roundshield Soldier’s Kite

Roundshield


39

Toisech

Rank at a Glance

Often anglicised in modern English to ‘Thane’, these men were the Clan chiefs- considered minor nobility in the Celtic world. In some

cases these men would actually hold a knighthood under the feudal

system, as well as their traditional claims to their lands and title

through the clan system.

These men would be the leaders of the clan in both war and

peace, answerable only to the Mormaer (the Celtic

equivalent of an earl) or higher-born nobles of their

family (Flaith).

The Toisech who would hold lands with

multiple clans or sects of clans.

Depending on member’s desires (and

consideration to how remote their lands are)

these members can give a highly Celtic

impression, or alternatively a highly Normano-

inspired kit impression (which was increasingly

the case in areas bordering Norman-influence).

Please note the lack of maille mufflers- a feature

which is not apparent outside of Norman-

influenced lands.


Head Open Helm Celtic Helm/Nasal Helm Open Helm Expanded Nasal Helm


Early Hauberk (with ventail)

Hauberk Leather Jack worn over maille

Legs - - Chausses, Winningas




Spear/Lance Celtic Sword/Sword

Long-knife/Seax (as secondary)

Mace, Hand-axe, Long-axe, Dagger

Shield Roundshield Soldier’s Kite Knight’s Kite Roundshield


40

Toisech Mor

Rank at a Glance Often anglicised in modern English to ‘Great Thane’, these men were the foremost

Clan chiefs- considered nobility in the Celtic world. In some cases these men would

actually hold a knighthood under the feudal system, as well as their traditional

claims to their lands and title through the clan system.

These men would be the leaders of clans in both war and peace, answerable only to

the Mormaer (the Celtic equivalent of an earl) who would hold lands with multiple

clans or sects of clans.

Depending on member’s desires (and

consideration to how remote their lands

are) these members can give a highly

Celtic impression, or alternatively a

highly Normano-inspired kit impression

(which was increasingly the case in

areas bordering Norman-influence).

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to

wear a leather jack over armour- when

wearing full maille, a surcoat should be worn.



Body Early Hauberk Leather Jack over Hauberk Hauberk

Legs - Chausses Winningas


Padded mufflers Padded Leather Mufflers Maille mufflers


Spear/Lance, Celtic Sword/Sword

Long-knife/Seax (as secondary)

Mace, Hand-axe, Long-axe Dagger

Shield Roundshield Knight’s Kite Soldier’s Kite Roundshield


41

Flaith

Rank at a Glance The term ‘Flaith’ meant ‘Noble’, and seems to have been used roughly analogously

with the term ‘Baron’ in Western Europe.

These men were powerful magnates who held sway over a swathe of Clans, all of

whom would be tied to the Flaith by blood-ties or complex

marriage alliances.

Depending on member’s desires (and consideration to how

remote their lands are) these members can give a highly

Celtic impression, or alternatively follow the

standard Normannis kit regulations for Baron

(which was increasingly the case in areas

bordering Norman-influence).

This is a rank of Scottish soldier permitted to

wear a leather jack over armour- when

wearing full maille, a surcoat should be

worn.



Body Early Hauberk

Leather Jack over Hauberk Hauberk

Legs - Chausses Winningas


Padded mufflers Padded Leather Mufflers Maille mufflers


Spear/Lance, Celtic Sword/Sword


Mace, Hand-axe, Long-axe Dagger

Shield Soldier’s Kite Knight’s Kite Late Kite Heater Shield


42

Wargear Definitions

And Regulations


43

Celtic Sword Celtic Sword R I A U Sealgair (A)

X

Boghadair (A)

X

Boghadair Cath (A) X

Gall-Boghadair (A) X

Boghadair-Cagalor (A) X

Sealgair Mor (A) X

Fear-cinnidh X

Laoch X

Gall-Laoch X

Laoch-Cagalor X

Octhigern X

Toisech X

Toisech Mor X

Flaith X

Overview Swords represent the pinnacle of 12th century weapon prestige, and as such should be

very well maintained - the blades and fittings featuring no tarnishing or rust, with no

notable dents or nicks in the sword edge (these should be smoothed away) and with a

well maintained leather-wrapped or bare wooden grip. When selecting a sword, most

members should look at the ideal lengths, however, as weapons should always be in

proportion to the owner, particularly short or tall members should look at the

minimum and maximum lengths.

These sword should feature a single fuller running either the length of the blade or

2/3rds of the length of the blade. These swords can be slung from split sword-belts, or

slung from shoulder-baldrics or waist belts with suspension loops.

Celtic Sword Minimum Maximum Ideal

Blade Length 26” 32” 28”-30” Point Profile 2008 issue 1p 3” rounded 2008 issue 10p


44

When selecting a sword, please refer to the sword table below

The pommels have been assigned letters (A-E) and the five predominant forms of crosses numbers (1-

5). The intention is that the crosses represent bars of steel without additional embellishment or

notable design features. Other styles were present, but these are significantly rarer and should be

discussed with the Constabulary.

The given letter-number combinations represent finished ‘swords’- so A3 would be a trilobe

pommel with a wide, narrow cross.

Period Dateline Ideal Rank

A1 X 9th Century X TOO EARLY FOR USE X

A2 Mid 11th-12th century T5-9

A3 Mid 11th-12th century T5-9

A4 Early 11th century T5

A5 Late Late 12th-Early 13th century T5-9 B1 Early 11th century T3-5 B2 Mid 11th-12th century T3-5 B3 Late Late 12th-Early 13th century T5-9 B4 Early 11th century T3-5 B5 Late Late 12th-Early 13th century T5-9 C1 Early 11th century T3-5 C2 Mid 11th-12th century T3-5 C3 Mid 11th-12th century T3-9 C4 Early 11th century T3-5 C5 Mid 11th-12th century T3-9

D1 X 9th century X TOO EARLY FOR USE X D2 Early 11th century T3-5 D3 Mid 11th-12th century T3-9

D4 X 9th century X TOO EARLY FOR USE X D5 Mid 11th-12th century T3-9

E1 X 9th century X TOO EARLY FOR USE X E2 Mid 11th century T3-9 E3 Mid 11th-12th century T3-9 E4 Early 11th-12th century T3-5 E5 Mid 11th-12th century T3-9


45

Seax Seax R I A U Sealgair (A) X

Boghadair (A) X




Sealgair Mor (A) X

Fear-cinnidh X

Laoch X

Gall-Laoch X

Laoch-Cagalor X

Octhigern X

Toisech X

Toisech Mor X

Flaith X

Seax Minimum Maximum Ideal

Blade Length 6” 18” 16” Point Profile 2008 issue 1p 1” rounded 2008 issue 10p

Overview Seaxes, either in their rounded form, or the

more ‘classic’ broken-back triangular form,

remained in common use in Scotland long after

fading out and evolving to different profiles in

England.

These may be mounted with wooden, bone or antler hilts- or a hilt that comprises a

mix of these materials. They may feature additional metalwork in the way of guard

or cap plates.

These weapons conform to the same basic measurements and restrictions as the

long-knife, but conform to a different blade profile. Care should be taken to ensure

that the rear ‘point’ is rounded to acceptable proportions as well as the point of the

weapon.

Knives, like all blades, must be accompanied by a scabbard - either a leather scabbard

with a semi-rigid 'back-seam' or a leather covered wooden scabbard. Saexes classically

had a scabbard with a seam along either the blunt or sharp edge of the knife, and

were suspended either vertically or horizontally from the belt.


46

Langseax Langseax R I A U

Sealgair (A) X

Boghadair (A) X




Sealgair Mor (A) X

Fear-cinnidh X

Laoch X

Gall-Laoch X

Laoch-Cagalor X

Octhigern X

Toisech X

Toisech Mor X

Flaith X

Overview A Langseax is a Germanic/Scandinavian weapon comprising a long, vaguely

triangular section blade, sharpened along the ‘flat’ edge, with a hilt without pommel

or cross. By the 12th century these seem to have evolved in such a way to feature a far

more rounded blade profile,

These weapons served a similar function to the Proto-Falchion, but were distinctly

Anglo-Scandinavian in origin, but developed from the same evolutionary family as

the seax.

These weapons should feature a blade that conforms to standard sword regulations,

with a single fuller running along the ‘spine’ of the blade. These weapons may be

mounted with wooden, bone or antler hilts- or a hilt that comprises a mix of these

materials. They may feature additional metalwork in the way of guard or cap plates.

These weapons must be accompanied by a scabbard - either a leather scabbard with a

semi-rigid 'back-seam' or a leather covered wooden scabbard. Saexes classically had a

scabbard with a seam along either the blunt or sharp edge of the knife, and were

suspended either vertically or horizontally from the belt.

Langseax Minimum Maximum Ideal

Blade Length 18” 22” 20”

Point Profile 2008 issue 1p 3” rounded 2008 issue 10p


47

Roundshield Roundshield R I A U Sealgair (A) X Boghadair (A) X X

Boghadair Cath (A) X X

Gall-Boghadair (A) X X

Boghadair-Cagalor (A) X X

Sealgair Mor (A) X X

Fear-cinnidh X X

Laoch X X

Gall-Laoch X X

Laoch-Cagalor X X

Octhigern X

Toisech X

Toisech Mor X

Flaith X

Shields Minimum Maximum Ideal

Diameter 24” 30” 28”

*Please note- where stated as required (R) these shields are the required minimum in a scale that runs:

roundshield, soldier’s kite, knight’s kite.

Overview A roundshield may be between 24” and 30” in diameter, and either flat or domed in

section. These shields must feature a central boss or umbo with a grip bar riveted to

the back - this may be of iron or more preferably, wood.

As with all shields these should be scored in the direction of the grain to indicate

planking, and faced in canvas or suitably heavy-grade fabric, stiffened with glue

before painting. A poly-urethane spray varnish with a silk finish may be applied to

seal the shield- such sprays should be applied in careful even coats so as not to appear

sprayed.

Spearmen/Polearmsmen may sling their shield across their back to allow free

movement, or may sling their shield across their front and using the leather back

strap to guide the shield, use it in conjunction with a two-handed pole arm. This is

provided they keep two hands on the weapon throughout combat, and the shield is

not slung across the throat.


48

Painting Scottish Shields Unlike kite-shields which must always feature the group's heraldry, round shields

may be painted in the group's heraldic field (plain blue, in the case of Stirling). They

may also feature some decoration in the group's charge colour (yellow, in the case of

Stirling), but this must be limited to simple geometric designs, such as a cross or bar.

Whilst this may seem an unnecessary regulation, it is to prevent heraldic confusion

on the battlefield, and to aid group identification.

In the case of Scots groups in the RED zone marked on the map, they should discuss

period clan markings with the College of Heralds. When these are given, they should

be marked consistently on shields belonging to members of the Laoch-Cagalor rank

and higher.


49

Celtic Helms

Celtic Helmets in General

Helmets that feature cheek-pieces and a nasal (1+3) may also feature an aventail of

maille or boiled leather at the back of the neck, though this is preferred for lower ranks

(T1-4).

Cheek-pieces themselves may be made from either steel or thick leather (~3mm either

boiled or tanned)- and should ideally be hinged with leather stitched into the rim of the

helmet, though basic steel hinges are also allowed.

‘Pudding bowl’ helms

(A, A1, A3)

The low style of helmet that became popular across Europe in the latter part of the 12th

century seems to have already been popular in the ‘Celtic fringe’ areas of Britain-

assumedly as a direct descendent of the last Romano-British helmets which featured low

rounded domes. These helmets could be worn with a simple nasal bar, much as they were

in the rest of the British Isles, without any additional facial protection or cheek-pieces.

Celtic Helms R I A U Sealgair (A) X

Boghadair (A) X




Sealgair Mor (A) X

Fear-cinnidh X

Laoch X

Gall-Laoch X

Laoch-Cagalor X

Octhigern X

Toisech X Toisech Mor X Flaith X

Dome Plain 1 2 3 1 + 3

A (Dome)

T1-5 T1-9 N/A T1-5 N/A

B (Peaked Dome)

T1-5 T1-9 T1-5 T1-5 T1-6

C (‘Guthlac’ Dome)

T1-5 T1-9 N/A N/A N/A

(1= Plain Nasal, 2= Inset Brows, 3= Cheek-Pieces)


50

‘Peaked’ helms

(B, B1, B2, B3, B1+3)

These helmets seem to have developed almost universally across Europe- though in the

Celtic fringe they retained distinct local flavour- sometimes featuring a more inset nasal

in the style of earlier Saxon helmets, or sometimes with cheekpieces (again, as seen on

the Lewis Chessmen). The European fashion for helmets raised in a single piece took

longer to take hold in more remote areas as the production method was more

problematic for those who were not dedicated armourers- and required a greater quality

of steel not always readily available.

‘Guthlac’ helms

(C, C1)

Seen on both the Guthlac Rolls (from which it derives its Normannis nomenclature) and

the Lewis Chessmen, this helmet seems to have been influenced by both Hiberno-Norse

and Celtic military fashions. The helm has an odd ‘flower-pot’ profile, terminating in a

rounded top. In all depictions a reinforcing band with some incised/stamped decoration

runs around the brow just above the brim- and the helmet is depicted both with and

without a nasal bar, though not with cheekpieces. The helmet’s design would facilitate

glancing, as well as allowing the top to be reinforced with thicker steel to better resist

percussive weapons- and seems to have been the Celtic parallel to the European flat-

topped helmet that developed in the latter half of the 12th century.


51

Leather Jack Leather Jack R I A U

Sealgair (A) X

Boghadair (A) X


Gall-Boghadair (A) G

Boghadair-Cagalor (A) G

Sealgair Mor (A)

M

Fear-cinnidh X

Laoch U X

Gall-Laoch

U

Laoch-Cagalor M

Octhigern M

Toisech M

Toisech Mor M

Flaith M

X- worn alone M – worn over maille G- worn over gambeson U- worn under maille

Overview

Leather jacks would be worn in period as much as a measure against weather as a

practical form of armour. Where specified these items are listed as allowable, they

may be worn over maille or padding, or as armour in their own right. Leather

jacks are, when made correctly, considered to be the equivalent of padded armour

and therefore allow the member a single additional hit to their allowance when

worn as independent armour.

Such garments must be constructed from flexible leather of at least 1.5-2mm in

thickness and should cover the arms to the elbow and from the neck to the knee.

They should follow the rough pattern laid out above- sewn down the side as far as

the waist and then left vented thereafter (to allow free leg movement), but not

featuring a front split. The armpit may also be left slightly open at the nexus of

the two seams to allow better movement and ventilation.

Members portraying Toisech, Toisech Mor and Flaith may wear such items over their

maille, as a weather-proof layer that would serve a similar role to a Norman surcoat,

a reasonable measure in the British Isles.

Waist Height

Side Venting

Armpit Vent

Documents

Historia Normannis High Constable Wargear Regulations · 2018. 11. 7. · Historia Normannis - High Constable – Scottish Supplement 4 The Three Estates Laboratores (Those who work)-Non