Description

The Highland Targe was one of the last shields to see common use on the battlefield. Up until 1745 targes were wielded by Highland Clansmen using tactics that allowed them to maintain sword and shield fighting in the time of firearms. Produced by Targe Wrights these shields were intricately decorated and part of a lethal combination when paired with the Broadsword and Dirk.

Ben Kerr developed this kit over a decade of teaching targe making and use. Ben has worked closely with, and handled, many original targes to study their construction. Many students who have completed his targe making workshop in-person have gone on to use their targes in training and through their feedback the kit has been improved to ensure that the end result is not just a beautiful piece but is fully functional. The targe held by the West Highland Museum was selected for the beginner level kit as it is one of the less intricate historical designs but still produces an heirloom quality shield, depicting the beauty and high level of craftsmanship that targe wrights were famous for.

Targe Kit Details

When designing a kit we seek to make sure that every kit contains everything that is need to complete the project from start to finish. This means that every tool that you are instructed to use is included, every material part of the kit is included, leather dye is included, all you need to provide is your time and a nice wall to hang the piece on when you finish!

This kit includes natural materials. The face of the targe is veg tan leather and the back of the targe is hair-on cow hide and as such there is likely to be variation in colour (especially of the back) there may also be some natural flaws in these materials. Our team inspects every face and back prior to dispatch to ensure that the natural flaws will not interfere with the successful completion of the kit nor take away from the kits beauty upon completion. By ordering the kit you accept the natural condition of the materials.

Once you complete your kit you will be eligible to claim your Artificer Coin, learn more here.

Each Kit Contains

• All Materials necessary to produce a Complete Targe
• All the basic tools required to finish the kit
• A full size pattern sheet for the West Highland Targe
• A detailed instruction manual guiding you step-by-step through the process
• A facsimile of Highland Targets and Other Shields by James Drummond (1873)
• Guide to original source material on the use of the targe
  • The Highlanders Method of using the Sword by Thomas Page (1746)
  • Facing a Man with Sword and Targe by Donald McBane (1728)
  • Copy of the Penicuick Sketches (1745)
• Information for you to apply for your Artificer Coin upon completion of kit