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What Swords Did Knights Carry? A Comprehensive Guide

Knights, the heavily armored warriors of the medieval period, were often defined by their skill in combat and the weapons they wielded. While the image of a knight might conjure up a singular vision of a sword, the reality is that knights carried a variety of swords, adapted to different roles, time periods, and evolving combat techniques. Predominantly, knights carried arming swords (also known as knightly swords), longswords, and, to a lesser extent, broadswords and specialized swords like the estoc. These weapons, along with other arms such as lances, maces, and daggers, formed a knight’s formidable arsenal. The sword, however, remained the quintessential symbol of their status and martial prowess.

The Arming Sword: The Knight’s Constant Companion

The arming sword was perhaps the most ubiquitous of a knight’s weaponry. Characterized by a single-handed grip, a cruciform hilt, and a double-edged blade typically 70-80 cm long, the arming sword was designed for versatility. It was intended to be used alongside a shield, allowing the knight to parry blows and deliver swift cuts and thrusts. This type of sword was prevalent throughout the High Middle Ages, from roughly the 11th to 13th centuries. Its design emphasized balance and ease of use, making it an effective weapon both on foot and on horseback. It was often referred to academically as the knightly arming sword.

Features of the Arming Sword

Single-Handed Grip: Designed for use with a shield.
Cruciform Hilt: Providing balance and grip.
Double-Edged Blade: Suitable for cutting and thrusting attacks.
Blade Length: Typically 70-80 cm.
Versatile Weapon: Effective on foot and on horseback.

The Longsword: A Two-Handed Evolution

As armor technology improved, the longsword, also known as a bastard sword or hand-and-a-half sword, gained prominence. This weapon, with its longer grip allowing for two-handed use, offered increased reach and leverage. While it could still be wielded with one hand if necessary, the longsword’s full potential was realized with both hands gripping the hilt. This allowed for more powerful blows and intricate techniques.

The longsword became increasingly common from the 13th century onwards, coinciding with the decline of shield use and the development of more sophisticated fighting styles. It was a deadly weapon in duels, on the battlefield, and for settling vendettas.

Features of the Longsword

Two-Handed Grip: Increased reach and leverage.
Versatile Blade: Effective for both cutting and thrusting.
Weight and Balance: Designed for powerful, controlled movements.
Popular from 13th Century Onward: Coinciding with the decline of shield use.
Used in Duels and Battles: A favored weapon for various combat situations.

Other Swords and Weapons in a Knight’s Arsenal

While the arming sword and longsword were the most common, knights might also employ other types of swords depending on the situation. These include:

Broadsword: Primarily a cutting weapon, characterized by its wide blade. Although common to the era, its use by knights waned with the refinement of armor and the rise of the longsword.
Estoc: A thrusting sword with a stiff, pointed blade designed to pierce armor. Often carried as a sidearm in the late medieval period, the estoc was specifically designed to penetrate gaps in plate armor.
Greatsword: Generally wielded by foot soldiers, the greatsword was a massive two-handed weapon used for breaking enemy lines.

Beyond the Sword

A knight’s arsenal wasn’t limited to swords. Other weapons commonly carried included:

Lance: For initial charges on horseback.
Mace: Effective against armored opponents.
Flail: Capable of delivering devastating blows.
Dagger: For close-quarters combat and dispatching wounded enemies.

FAQs: Delving Deeper into Knightly Swords

Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the types of swords knights carried:

1. What was the typical sword length for a knight?

The length varied depending on the type of sword. Arming swords typically had blades of 70-80 cm (28-31 inches), while longswords could range from 90 cm to over 120 cm (35-47 inches).

2. Did knights use shields with longswords?

Generally, no. The longsword was designed for two-handed use, making a shield impractical. However, in some situations, a smaller buckler might have been used.

3. What made a sword “knightly”?

The term “knightly sword” usually refers to the arming sword, the standard sidearm for knights during the High Middle Ages. Its design was tailored for the mounted and armored combat typical of knights.

4. Was Excalibur a typical knightly sword?

Excalibur is a mythical sword, and depictions vary. While often portrayed as a longsword, the legends predate the widespread use of longswords. In Arthurian times a weapon similar to the Roman gladius would be more likely.

5. Did all knights carry the same type of sword?

No, knights adapted their weaponry to their fighting style and the prevalent combat conditions. The arming sword was the most common, but longswords gained popularity over time.

6. What was the difference between a longsword and a greatsword?

The longsword was versatile and could be used with one or two hands, while the greatsword was a massive two-handed weapon primarily used by foot soldiers to break enemy formations.

7. Were swords the only weapon knights used?

Absolutely not. Knights used a wide range of weapons, including lances, maces, axes, and daggers, each serving a specific purpose in combat.

8. How much did a knight’s sword weigh?

The weight varied, but arming swords typically weighed around 1-1.5 kg (2.2-3.3 lbs), while longswords could weigh 1.5-2.5 kg (3.3-5.5 lbs).

9. Did knights sharpen their own swords?

Yes, knights were responsible for maintaining their weapons, including sharpening the blades. They used various tools like whetstones and files to keep their swords in optimal condition.

10. What was the “arming sword” used for?

The arming sword was used for a variety of combat situations, including cutting, thrusting, and parrying. It was a versatile weapon effective both on foot and on horseback.

11. Did knights carry a sidearm in addition to their main sword?

Yes, it was common for knights to carry a dagger as a sidearm for close-quarters combat or dispatching wounded opponents.

12. How were knightly swords made?

Knightly swords were typically made of steel, crafted by skilled blacksmiths. The process involved forging, heat treating, and tempering the steel to achieve the desired strength, flexibility, and edge retention.

13. What role did swords play in knightly culture?

Swords were more than just weapons; they were symbols of chivalry, honor, and status. The sword was often associated with oaths, ceremonies, and the knightly code of conduct.

14. When did knights stop using swords?

Swords remained a common weapon for knights and soldiers well into the 16th century, but their importance declined with the advent of gunpowder weapons.

15. Where can I learn more about medieval weapons and combat?

There are numerous resources available, including museums, historical societies, and academic studies. Online resources such as the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ offer further insights into the historical and cultural contexts of medieval warfare. You can explore how games and simulations contribute to our understanding of medieval life. GamesLearningSociety.org also provides articles and resources from academic sources.

In conclusion, the swords carried by knights were varied and evolved over time to meet the changing demands of warfare. From the versatile arming sword to the powerful longsword, these weapons were essential tools of the knight’s trade and powerful symbols of their social status and martial prowess.

What swords did knights carry?