War Hammers

War Hammers were a development of the late thirteenth century created specifically to deal with heavy plate style armour. The massive hammer head of a medieval war hammer could crush the strongest helmet or suit of plate armor with just a few blows, and the back spike could rip through the helm and plate like a modern can opener.

In battle, the blunt side of the hammer head was usually employed first to knock down and stun an enemy. Once he was on the ground, helpless, the polearm was reversed and the back spike was used to punch a hole through the helmet and deliver the coup de grace.

Here at Medieval Collectibles, we carry fully functional German and English war hammers and foot soldier war hammers.

Brief History of the War Hammer

The war hammer was a commonly used weapon in the late Medieval period. It had two variations: the long and short war hammer. The long one, also known as a maul, was considered a polearm, which was meant to dismount fighters from their horses. The short one was used during close combat.

The weapon was shaped like a typical hammer but was built more to inflict damage upon an enemy. The head had a blunt side and a spiked edge on either end. The head was mounted on a pole handle, which measured from 1 foot to 5 feet long.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Was the War Hammer Used For?

This polearm was used during battle and combat. Some fighters used this weapon instead of swords since they could penetrate steel armor easily when using a powerful blunt force. Once the enemy was struck, the soldier wielding the polearm then used the spiked steel end to deliver a sharper blow to an unshielded part of the body.

How Heavy Is a War Hammer?

These polearms can weigh from 2 to 4 lbs, depending on how big the head is and what material was used to craft it. Typically, these weapons were brandished with steel or aluminum material with a wooden handle.

What Are the Commonly Used Weapons of the Medieval Era?

There were a lot of weapons used to maim and kill during the Middle Ages beyond the swords and lances knights used. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Sword – This is considered the single most important weapon of the Middle Ages. It can slice and stab at the same time with the least effort possible. Swords determined one’s social status, as well. Since steel was an expensive material, the sword was initially owned only by the rich.
• Spears – These were a cost-efficient antidote to cavalry charges on the battlefield.
• Mace – This polearm was effective in delivering significant damage to the enemy. It is made of a wood shaft with a massive head made of stone, steel, iron, or bronze.
• Warhammer – This is another brutal polearm used during the Middle Ages. It has a wooden handle with a double-sided steel head and a blunt and sharp edge on either side.

Where Can You Get War Hammer Collectibles?

Medieval Collectibles offers an impressive range of battle polearms representative of the Middle Ages. These authentic and fully functional tools are the perfect collector’s items for history junkies and collectors. They’re made by licensed blacksmiths using quality steel that weighs as much as the polearms from the past.

Shop our awesome selection of polearms in different styles and sizes.