The Belgic shako proved to be a very short-lived design. It was replaced by a totally new style in 1816. Due to the two year life expectancy of shakos, there were some regiments that still hadn’t received the 1812 model by the time of Waterloo.

The "Belgic" shako was a black felt shako with a raised front introduced in the Portuguese Marines in 1797 and then in the Portuguese Army in 1806, as the barretina.

The cap, or shako, was adapted from the csakos suveg, or peaked cap, of the 18th century Hungarian hussar uniform, a flamboyant style of dress which also had a strong influence on light cavalry uniforms of the period. By 1800 the shako was the most common form of headdress in Europe and the Americas.

Stovepipe shako, later Belgic shako; The principal distinction from British units was that the backpack was of dark blue colour rather than black.

This is a reproduction shako based on a very rare Waterloo period shako for an enlisted private. It has a black leather rosette supporting the well aged cord and a universal pattern dimpled GR (George III), helmet plate. This type was in use from 1812 to 1815.

Aug 16, 2011 · The Belgic shako, sometimes called the "Waterloo" shako, was adopted by regulation in 1812, but did not find its way into the hands of infantrymen in the Iberian Peninsular until nearly the end of hostilities, if at all, and is usually associated with the Hundred Days campaign, ending with the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.

Very rare shako to find due to the original construction and materials used, known as the Belgic or Waterloo Shako, this example retains good shape and is solid however does show area’s of age wear please see images.

Based in Scotland, we are specialists in constructing historically-accurate and well-made British Napoleonic headdress completely bespoke to your requirements. You’ll find examples of our work elsewhere in this website but if you are looking for a Belgic cap, Stovepipe shako, Cocked Hat or Bicorne then look no further.

The Belgic shako proved to be a very short-lived design. It was replaced by a totally new style in 1816. Due to the two year life expectancy of shakos, there were some regiments that still hadn’t received the 1812 model by the time of Waterloo. The 28th Foot was known to still be wearing the stovepipe with the plate cut apart to make a unique ...

Repromilitaria Albert shako is a reproduction British shako of high quality. It starts in 1844 and ends during the Crimean War. It was named after Queen Victorias consort Prince Albert who is said to have had a hand in its design.