War Hammers
A war hammer is a development of the late thirteenth century created specifically to deal with heavy plate-style armour. The massive hammerhead 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 hammerhead 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 can supply your games with 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 and has become a popular modern-day armament for games. Two variations of these hammers were the long and short war hammers. The long one, also known as a maul, was considered a polearm, meant to dismount mounted opponents. The short one was used during close combat.
The weapon was shaped like a typical hammer but was built to inflict damage upon an armored foe. The head had a blunt side and a spiked edge on either end. It was mounted on a pole handle that measured from one foot to five feet long.
The heavy nature of these hammers and their suitability as weapons against plate armor made them a popular weapon type in games.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were war hammers used for?
War hammers were used during battle and combat. Some fighters used hammers instead of swords since they could easily penetrate steel armor using a powerful blunt force. Once the enemy was struck, the soldier wielding the polearm used the steel spike to deliver a sharper blow to an unshielded body part.
How heavy is a war hammer?
War hammers can weigh from two to four lbs, depending on the size of the head and the material used to craft it. Typically, these hammers were brandished with steel or aluminum material with a wooden handle.
What are the commonly used weapons of the medieval era?
Aside from war hammers, many weapons were 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 simultaneously with the least effort possible. Swords determined one’s social status as well. Since steel was an expensive material, the rich initially owned the sword.
- 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 has a wood shaft and a massive head made of stone, steel, iron, or bronze.
Where can you get war hammer collectibles?
Medieval Collectibles offers an impressive range of battle polearms representing 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, whether for your roleplaying games, historical reenactments, or your weapon collection.