Introduction
Some bascinets are equipped with a hinged visor, like the flip visor bascinet and the pig-face bascinet. Many users expect the visor to stay in the open position, but this isn't historically accurate. This article explains why the visor doesn't stay open by itself and how it was historically used.
Purpose and relevance of this article
Helps LARP and re-enactment players understand why their bascinet visor doesn't stay open
Explains how hinged visors functioned historically
Clarifies how modern reproductions follow this principle
Historical & functional context
The hinged visor of a bascinet was not designed to stay open permanently. The visor could only be flipped up briefly by hand, for example to:
give or receive commands
temporarily increase the field of vision
After that, the visor was quickly closed again. Most bascinets had the visor attached with steel pins, which kept it firmly in place.
In less threatening situations or when the visor wasn't needed, it could be removed by taking out the pins, making the helmet easier to wear.
Practical tips for reproductions
In modern reproductions of flip visor and pig-face bascinets, the visor usually doesn't stay open by itself
This follows the historical principle: the visor was meant for temporary use, not for staying open for extended periodsIf you want the visor open for short moments, it can be flipped up by hand, but don't let go of it
Summary
Bascinets with hinged visors were historically not designed to stay open
The visor could be flipped up briefly for better vision or communication
Modern reproductions follow this principle: the visor falls back as soon as you let go of it
Keeping it open for extended periods requires additional modifications, but this isn't historically accurate
Safety during mock combat starts with the user themselves. No equipment is safe without proper use and maintenance.
Internal links
- Visor equipped with push buttons
