Demi-Lancer

By Crusader1307

A specialized form of Heavy Cavalry, they were popular in the 16rh and 17th Centuries. Although many Countries employed some form, they were especially popular in England. In definition, a Demi-Lancer was mounted on an unarmored horse and was known form wearing only half of the armor a regular mounted “Heavy” would (this was their simple difference). Popularizing the use of Demi-Armor and Burgonets (all component pieces fitted into one piece), the armor was designed to be “bullet proof” (to some degree). This was due to the low powder charges and heavier trajectory of early primitive firearms. Often equipped with a 15 to 18 foot steel or wooden Lance Spear and sword, Demi-Lancers were deployed as Flanking and Shock Troops.

During The threat of invasion from Spain in the 1580s, caused England to recruit close to 3,000 Demi-Lancers for use in possible actions against a Spanish Invasion force (that never came). With the advance of firearms and artillery, Demi-Lancers would begin a quick decline from military inventories. The Lance as an effective weapon would still be retained (to the early 19th Century in some Nations). Use of Demi-Lancers would cease by the 16th Century.