Zweihander vs Polearm: How two-handed swords are different to pole weapons

scholagladiatoria20 minutes read

Pole arms and two-handed swords are compared in terms of design and purpose, with two-handed swords requiring more effort to make and having features like handguards and lugs for better protection during combat. Two-handed swords are seen as weapons for champions and guards, offering versatility in combat techniques and requiring skill and stamina to maneuver effectively.

Insights

  • Two-handed swords require significant effort to make, with a labor-intensive process that demands a higher level of expertise compared to crafting pole arms, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and dedication involved in their creation.
  • Two-handed swords are not only designed for combat but also serve ceremonial and display purposes, with some weighing up to 16 pounds, emphasizing the dual role of these weapons in both practical warfare and symbolic representation, reflecting the diverse functions they fulfill in various contexts.

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Recent questions

  • What are the differences between pole arms and two-handed swords?

    Pole arms have a wooden shaft with a head like a glaive or halberd, while two-handed swords are giant swords requiring significant effort to make. Pole arms are more head-heavy, while two-handed swords have a balance closer to the hands. Two-handed swords have a handguard for protection and lugs to prevent opponent's weapons from sliding down.

  • How are two-handed swords made compared to pole arms?

    Making a two-handed sword is labor-intensive and requires a higher level of expertise compared to crafting a basic pole arm. Two-handed swords are noted for their different balance points, with the balance closer to the hands compared to pole arms, which are more head-heavy.

  • What is the primary purpose of lugs on two-handed swords?

    Lugs on two-handed swords serve to prevent opponent's weapons from sliding down towards the hands during combat, enhancing hand protection. The primary purpose of lugs is suggested to be creating a secondary cross guard to keep opponent's weapons away from the hands during combat.

  • How are two-handed swords used in combat?

    Two-handed swords are viewed as weapons for champions and guards, used to hold positions and create obstacles for enemies, potentially in conjunction with shields or other troops. Maneuvering a heavy weapon requires skill, stamina, and proper pivoting techniques, similar to weight training, with a focus on keeping the weapon moving during combat to adapt to different opponents.

  • What are some potential uses of two-handed swords?

    Two-handed swords can be used against pike blocks to damage pole arms, although their primary function is seen as occupying space and disrupting enemy formations. Some two-handed swords are parade weapons designed more for display and ceremonial purposes rather than practical combat use.

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Summary

00:00

"Pole Arms vs Two-Handed Swords"

  • The discussion revolves around the comparison between pole arms and two-handed swords, specifically focusing on the differences in design and purpose.
  • Pole arms are described as having a wooden shaft with a head like a glaive or halberd, while two-handed swords are highlighted as giant swords requiring significant effort to make.
  • The process of making a two-handed sword is emphasized as labor-intensive and requiring a higher level of expertise compared to crafting a basic pole arm.
  • Two-handed swords are noted for their different balance points, with the balance closer to the hands compared to pole arms, which are more head-heavy.
  • The presence of a handguard on two-handed swords is highlighted as providing protection for the hands and enabling binding against an opponent's weapon, a feature lacking in pole arms.
  • Lugs on two-handed swords are explained as serving to prevent opponent's weapons from sliding down towards the hands during combat, enhancing hand protection.
  • The primary purpose of lugs on two-handed swords is suggested to be creating a secondary cross guard to keep opponent's weapons away from the hands during combat.
  • The potential use of two-handed swords against pike blocks is discussed, with the weapon's ability to damage pole arms noted, although the primary function is seen as occupying space and disrupting enemy formations.
  • Two-handed swords are viewed as weapons for champions and guards, used to hold positions and create obstacles for enemies, potentially in conjunction with shields or other troops.
  • Some two-handed swords are mentioned as potentially being parade weapons, designed more for display and ceremonial purposes rather than practical combat use.

14:17

Versatile weapons for combat and display

  • Some weapons are primarily for parades or showing off, with weights ranging from 5.5 to 16 pounds, while others, like nimble weapons, are designed for quick and efficient combat.
  • Maneuvering a heavy weapon requires skill, stamina, and proper pivoting techniques, similar to weight training, with a focus on keeping the weapon moving during combat to adapt to different opponents.
  • Different fighting techniques are employed based on the number of opponents, with the weapon being used like a longsword against multiple foes and like a spear against a single opponent, emphasizing the need for versatility in grip and movement.
  • The context of the weapon's use, often by professional mercenaries or bodyguards, highlights the importance of skill, size, and mobility, with these weapons being custom-made for specific individuals and passed down with the job.
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