15th century poleaxe, semi-sharp

Product description

The halberd is based on 16th century originals. It has an open axehead to reduce weight, and is well-suited to 16th century costumes.

The halberd is a weapon with a long wooden shaft and an iron point, with an axe and a hook underneath. Contrary to popular belief, the hook was not intended to increase wounds, but to block or trap enemy weapons.

The length of the shaft permitted a halberdier to strike more powerfully than with a sword. The weapon was effective in attack, especially against horsemen, but less suitable for defence. Skulls have been found on battlefields such as Wisby (1361) and Towton (1461) that had been completely split by a halberd.

With the advent of firearms, the halberd disappeared from the battlefield, but remained in use amongst ceremonial units. The most notable example is the Swiss Guard in Vatican City, who can still be seen carrying halberds, although they are no longer employed in combat.