The 3 Most Well-Known Medieval Swords

medieval sword

In order to understand what swords were used for and how they worked, we first need to look back at the medieval period. During this time, swords were being crafted from materials other than high-carbon steel and developed into a variety of different shapes and designs to meet the needs of various military forces. To date, there are approximately 1,300 extant examples of medieval swords with over 50 different types currently known in existence.

Notable Features of Medieval Swords

The most notable difference in these swords was the use of a two-handed grip which allowed warriors to have better control over their heavy weapons. 

In battle, many soldiers found it necessary to wield one-handed swords and used shields to protect themselves from sword strikes. These individuals had difficulty achieving heavy blows against their opponent due to the weight of their weapon so the two-handed grip was used for more powerful strikes.

Another important feature in medieval swords was the crossguard which was typically made of metal or wood. This accessory was designed to protect the hand and fingers from cuts, but also boosted the ability to use a sword while wearing a gauntlet. The crossguard also helped prevent a warrior from accidentally stabbing himself in battle. 

You will commonly see a sword referred to as a "glaive" which uses the crossguard as a secondary hilt.

Common Swords of Medieval Time

The most common type of this sword category was the longsword. These weapons were typically used in combat and were called one-handed swords in France and longswords in England. The longsword was more durable than most other types of swords, but lacked the two-handed grip and longer reach that two-handed swords had. 

These swords could be thought of as one-handed versions of two-handed medieval sabers. There were also shortswords, narrow swords, arming swords, scimitars and bastard swords among other types of medieval sabers known in France and England during this time period.

1.   Longsword

"Longsword" is a generic term for any medieval saber characterized by the use of a blade that is at least as long as a common "greatsword". Longswords typically measure from 36-42 inches in length and weigh 3-5 pounds. 

The word "longsword" derives from the fact that these weapons are made with blades as long as those found on Greatswords, but lighter. The average reach of such swords can vary quite dramatically and have been noted to extend to 37 inches, though this seems to be closer to the end of the spectrum rather than an average.

2.           Shortsword

A shortsword is a type of sword that is characterized by its shorter length, measuring only two feet in blade length. The blade typically features a diamond cross-section (a fuller). They are martial weapons which became popular during the High Middle Ages. 

Short Swords typically have blades one to two feet long and have a handle with either no or a very shallow pommel. They can be any type of sword, but they are generally categorized into three types: the cutting or slashing swords (such as the kopis), the stiff arming swords used for close-quarter fighting (such as the kindjal) and thrusting swords.

3.           Bastard Swords

Bastard swords are a mixed weapon. Usually found with a straight blade as opposed to the curved blades of true two-handed medieval swords, these had enough length to be used on horseback and could be readily wielded from horseback; however, they also had the width of a single-handed sword for use in close combat. 

The term bastard sword was rarely used before the end of the sixteenth century; but by then it was already in common use among those who discussed weaponry. The character name Brienne of Tarth carries one called "Oathkeeper" while another is called "Widow's Wail".

Historical Values!

The medieval swords are great weapons that are highly prized by modern reenactors and martial artists. Even if you don't enjoy live-action role-playing or fencing, you can appreciate the beauty of historical arms and armor. This is because they have a fascinating history, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.

As with most ancient weapons such as spears, swords were often used as symbols of power or status during battles or feasts as well as when in use on expeditions hunting for food for the tribe. An important part of their history is that they were also often given away in tribute to the soldiers. 

Location: United States

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