From the Middle Ages to the early 17th century, dense infantry formations wielding polearms were a common sight on European battlefields. These weapons, designed to counter cavalry charges and deal devastating blows, were cost-effective to mass-produce and highly versatile in combat. Infantry relied on them for close-quarters engagements. Below, we explore some of the most iconic medieval polearms.
The bardiche was a powerful polearm widely used in Eastern Europe and Russia. It featured a sturdy, wide-bladed axe head inserted into a groove on the shaft. The blade was approximately 60 cm (23.6 inches) long, while the shaft was relatively short, around 1.5 meters (4.9 feet). Though it appeared top-heavy and unwieldy, its design made it an excellent heavy-chopping weapon on the battlefield.
The billhook was considered a national weapon of England, though it was also used in Italy and other European countries. It evolved from the agricultural billhook and featured several prominent protrusions, with a spear-like spike at the front. Its defining feature was a sturdy hook designed to unseat cavalry. The English billhook emphasized chopping power, while the Italian version had a longer spear tip, making it more effective for thrusting attacks.
Originating in France, the glaive had a single-edged blade mounted on a long pole using a slotted fixture. The blade measured about 55 cm (21.6 inches) in length, while the wooden shaft ranged from 1.8 to 2.1 meters (5.9 to 6.8 feet). Swedish infantry modified the glaive by attaching a double-edged sword blade to the polearm. A variant known as the "glaive-wisarmes" featured a small hook for added versatility.
The halberd was one of the most iconic polearms used to counter cavalry. Its name derives from the German words "halm" (shaft) and "barte" (axe). Featuring a combination of a spear tip, an axe blade, and a hook, the halberd was effective for piercing, chopping, and pulling down mounted opponents. Over time, its spear tip was refined to improve its anti-cavalry capabilities. The halberd became a signature weapon of Swiss mercenaries and German infantry.
The pike was one of the most widely used infantry weapons during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It typically measured between 3 to 4 meters (9.8 to 13.1 feet), with some reaching up to 6 meters (19.6 feet). Pike formations were highly defensive and could effectively halt cavalry charges. However, due to its unwieldy length, pikemen were vulnerable in close combat, prompting them to carry sidearms such as swords, maces, or daggers for self-defense.
Polearms played an irreplaceable role on medieval battlefields, enabling infantry to counter cavalry charges effectively while offering strategic versatility. From the bardiche to the pike, each weapon had unique characteristics and tactical applications, solidifying the role of infantry in the era of melee warfare.
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