Medieval swords became famous during the 5th to 15th centuries in Europe. These swords lasted during the Medieval period or the middle ages. It started after the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
Medieval swords are also known as a knightly sword, knightly arming sword, or arming sword. A medieval sword was a double-edged, straight weapon with cruciform hilt, single-handed and blade length 70-80cms.
After this brief introduction, we are now going to explain different types of these ancient swords.
Different Types Of Medieval Swords
Different types of medieval swords range from small Broadsword (measuring around 30 inches) to Greatswords (the longest one measuring approximately 72 inches). Have a look at some popular medieval sword types:
1. Broadsword:
This is the earliest type of medieval sword used during the 6th century. The Broadsword featured a two-edged blade, which was 2-3 inches wide over the base and tapered at a point.
The weight of this sword was around 3-5 pounds, and the length range was between 30-45 inches. This weapon was commonly used as a close contact weapon. The primary uses of Broadsword included cutting and slicing the opponent.
2. Greatsword:
These swords were two-handed, large swords. The length of these medieval swords ranged between 50-72 inches.
The handle of this sword measured around 18-21 inches. Hence, the weight of the Greatsword ranged between 6-10 pounds.
It featured an extended handle that allowed the blade to be used in both hands. It was also a close contact weapon that offered the user to strike a massive blow. This weapon was also used for cutting and slicing the opponent.
3. Falchion Sword:
This sword was loved by medieval knights, especially those who were on Crusade. This sword had similar features to the heavy scimitar.
The falchion swords featured heavy, short blades and that too with a single edge. These swords were commonly made from iron and steel. The length of these swords ranged between 37-40 inches.
However, the weight of the falchion sword is around 1-2 pounds. It was also a close contact weapon used for cutting and slicing the opponent in one stroke.
4. Longsword:
Longsword is also termed as Bastardsword, Hand swords, or half sword. The length of these swords ranged between 44-50 inches. The handle of the longsword measured extra 10-15 inches.
The weight of this medieval sword was around 5-8 pounds. The longsword was named so because it had a longer handle and allowed two-handed use with a longer blade.
This medieval sword gained popularity due to extreme thrusting and cutting abilities.
5. Cutting Sword:
These swords were used initially by Medieval knights. Vikings then used the cutting sword commonly. They were commonly used for the slashing stroke.
6. Scimitar:
Saracens were commonly linked with this sword within the Holy Land, where they fought against Crusaders.
It featured a distinct and a curved blade ending along with a sharp point. These swords were commonly used from horsebacks to slice the attackers.
They featured a definite, intense, and curved blade ending. The blade length of this sword ranged between 30-36 inches.
Nevertheless, the design of this sword varied from one or two-handed use. The blow with a scimitar sword could result in an inflicting and severe injury.
The Final Words
Most warriors made medieval swords by hand using steel. During this period, some of the significant bloodiest wars took place.
With time, the medieval sword evolved from a double-edged sword to a diamond-shape, sharper sword that could quickly thrust between rings of chain mail.
So now, you can easily choose a type and grab it from a reputed seller’s store online!
Read Also: Swords For Sale - How Can You Pick Out The Best One?
