Medieval battle axe, the weapon of a thug or a knight? (testing on target)
Modern History TV・2 minutes read
The battle-ax, crafted by Tours Forge in the 14th century, was designed for use on horseback against various targets, boasting a rear spike for armor penetration alongside a long haft for extended reach. Axes, including the battle axe, were prominent in early medieval times, saw less use in the middle ages, and experienced a resurgence towards the end of the medieval period.
Insights
- The battle-ax evolved over time, with early versions having thin blades for slicing and later ones featuring a rear spike for armor penetration, making it a versatile weapon effective against different types of foes.
- The long haft of the battle axe, designed for horseback strikes, combined with the addition of a rear spike, allowed for extended reach and armor-piercing capabilities, showcasing the weapon's adaptability and effectiveness in combat scenarios.
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Recent questions
What is the historical significance of the battle-ax?
The battle-ax was a crucial weapon in the medieval period, designed for use from horseback against both armored and unarmored foes. It featured a long haft for extended reach and a rear spike for armor penetration, making it a versatile and effective weapon on the battlefield.
How does the battle-ax differ from wood-chopping axes?
The battle-ax differs from wood-chopping axes in its design and purpose. Early Dane axes had thin, knife-like blades, while later versions were thicker to combat armored opponents. Additionally, the addition of a rear spike in 14th-century axes made them ideal for penetrating mail and plate armor.
What is the Horseman's pick, and how does it relate to the battle-ax?
The Horseman's pick is a derivative of the battle-ax, focusing solely on the spike for armor-piercing capabilities. It was developed as a later weapon, emphasizing the effectiveness of the spike in penetrating armor, similar to the battle-ax's design.
Why did the battle-ax make a comeback towards the end of the medieval period?
The battle-ax saw a resurgence towards the end of the medieval period due to its effectiveness in combat situations. With its long haft for extended reach and rear spike for armor penetration, the battle-ax proved to be a versatile and formidable weapon on the battlefield.
What skills are required to wield a battle-ax effectively?
Wielding a battle-ax effectively requires skill and precision due to the complexity of the weapon. The proximity of the pick to the user's head during strikes adds an element of intimidation, emphasizing the need for caution and proper technique, similar to that used in polo for safety.
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Summary
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Medieval Battle Axes: Horseback Weapon Evolution
- The battle-ax is a 14th-century reproduction made by Tours Forge for use from horseback against human-sized targets.
- Battle axes differ from wood-chopping axes, with early Dane axes having thin, knife-like blades, while later versions are thicker for use against armored opponents.
- The addition of a rear spike in 14th-century axes is ideal for penetrating mail and plate armor, making them transitional weapons effective against armored and unarmored foes.
- The long haft of the battle axe allows for extended reach, suitable for horseback strikes, with the spike being crucial for armor penetration.
- The Horseman's pick, a later weapon, is a derivative of the battle axe, focusing solely on the spike for armor-piercing capabilities.
- Axes, like the battle axe, were prevalent in early medieval times, less so in the middle ages, and made a comeback towards the end of the medieval period.
- The battle axe's long haft is ideal for horseback use, with a lanyard added for experimental purposes, although historically, lanyards were not commonly used from horseback.
- Using a lanyard from horseback requires caution to prevent accidents, with a technique similar to polo for safety.
- The battle axe is a complex weapon requiring skill and precision, with the potential for intimidation due to the proximity of the pick to the user's head during strikes.
