Polearms of the Late Middle Ages: Range and Power in Medieval Combat

Polearms of the late Middle Ages played a crucial role on the battlefield, allowing soldiers to attack with great range and power. As warfare evolved and armor became more durable, these weapons were adapted to effectively pierce, cut, and fell enemies . From pikemen to heavy cavalry, polearms were essential in both defensive and offensive formations.

Main types of medieval polearms.

• Pike : Long lance used by infantry formations to stop cavalry charges and maintain the defensive line.
• Halberd : A combination of a spear, axe, and hook. It allowed for slashing and thrusting attacks, as well as knocking down riders.
• Morning Star : A weapon with a spiked ball on the end of a shaft, designed to impact with great force and pierce armor.
• Guisarma : Curved blade with a sharp point, ideal for hooking and disarming enemies in combat.
• Partisan : Similar to a spear, with a wide point and side edges that made it effective for both thrusts and cuts.
• Bardiche : Long-shafted axe with a large blade, used by both infantry and guards in castles.

Materials and characteristics of medieval polearms.

• Forged steel blades : Designed to withstand impacts and pierce armor.
• Reinforced wooden handles : Usually made of ash or oak, strong enough to support the weight of the weapon in combat.
• Additional Hooks and Spikes : Many weapons combine multiple functions, such as hooking shields or knocking back enemies.
• Use in tactical formations : They were used in defensive and offensive lines to maintain distance from the enemy.

Differences with weapons from other eras and cultures.

• Greater complexity and versatility : Unlike the simple spears of the Early Middle Ages, the polearms of the Late Middle Ages combine several types of attack.
• Combat Specialization : Some weapons, such as the halberd, were designed to be lethal against cavalry and heavily armed soldiers.
• Influence on Renaissance warfare : Many medieval polearms evolved and remained in use into the Renaissance.

Polearms of the late Middle Ages were essential in medieval warfare, providing range and power on the battlefield. If you're looking for authentic replicas of halberds, pikes, or guisarmes , at Medieval Shop you'll find ideal pieces for historical reenactments, collecting, or displaying .