Halberd

By Crusader1307

A very recognized Pole Arm weapon of the Middle Ages, it was in use around the 14th/15th Centuries. The weapon had an Axe shaped Head with a long sharpened spike protruding from it's top. Opposite the Axe face was a sharped or blunted Spike protrusion. The Head was then mounted on a 6 to 8 foot pole. The Halberd was an excellent weapon for pulling down mounted riders. Used with training similar to Sword Fencing, it was an effective dual purpose weapon. The advent of Firearms (like so many fine Medieval weapons), lessened their use. Halberds became popular Guard and Ceremonial weapons. Used in the 17th/18th Centuries a symbol of Military Rank, they can still be seen in active use by the Vatican Swiss Guard. The Guard had been using the Halberd since the 14th Century.