These are the most basic weapon and include the 'bill', after which the 'bill-block'
is named. Many of these weapons are descended from agricultural tools. They
will often include a thrusting spike, back spike, hook and cutting edge, such
as the 'English bill', 'Halberd' and 'Italian bill'. The 'Glaive' resembles
a large knife and can be used to hack and thrust. Spears are also common as
are variations on the spear like the 'Partisan'.
A pole weapon is best mounted on an ash or other hardwood shaft and riveted in place. You can buy a blade seperately or ready mounted. A blade can cost as little as £20 - £40, but mounted it can cost £60 or more.
It is currently Woodville policy to limit all pole weapons to 7 feet in length.
Shorter Pole Weapons
There are a number of shorter weapons used in close quarter combat. These were commonly used by men-at-arms and knights. The most famous is the 'Poleaxe', designed to deliver a crushing blow it also has a back spike and thrusting spike. Some use a 'Bardiche', which has a long curved blade behind which the hands can grip.
Swords are common and may be carried by all as a side-arm. Swords vary in size,
weight and price. A good standard broadsword can cost around £120. Some
carry a falchion, this sword broadens towards the tip and was used as a hacking
weapon.
These are a useful side-arm in a tight spot and come in various designs. The
most famous are the 'Bollock dagger' (sometimes 'Ballock') and the 'Rondel dagger'.
Some daggers are equiped with edged blades for cutting and thrusting, while
others have a spike for delivering piercing blows. Spiked versions are never
used on the field. Blunted daggers are used in combat display but sharp blades
can be bought for use in living history.
Maces are generally not used in reenactment because a blow is uncontrollable
and can inflict severe damage. They are sometimes used in correographed displays
with shields.
Again, not greatly used (see 'Maces and Flails').
The most common accessory is the Buckler, a small metal shield that covers the
fist. It is used to parry light blows. Larger shields were largely obsolete
by the 15th century.
Before buying any weapon make sure that it is safe for reenactment. Some suppliers
sell weapons for display only as well as battle-safe weapons. Get as much information
as possible from the supplier, read descriptions carefully and ask advice.
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page for ARCHERY, CROSSBOWS AND GUNNERY