How Heavy Are Real Greatswords?
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The weight of a real greatsword is a surprisingly complex topic, often clouded by fantasy and popular culture. In reality, greatswords, historically known by various names like zweihander, claymore, spadone, and montante, were not the excessively heavy, unwieldable weapons often portrayed. A typical greatsword would weigh between 6 and 10 pounds (approximately 2.7 to 4.5 kilograms). However, there is a range depending on specific design and purpose, with some examples being lighter and some heavier. It’s important to note that the length and balance of these swords played a crucial role in their effectiveness, far beyond just raw weight. The following article breaks down the realities of greatsword weight, delves into historical context, and clarifies common misconceptions.
Understanding Greatsword Weight
Not as Heavy as You Think
The average greatsword, designed for battlefield use, aimed to find a balance between lethal power and maneuverability. While they were certainly larger and heavier than typical single-handed swords, they were not so cumbersome that a trained warrior could not wield them effectively. The weight was distributed in a way that allowed for powerful swings and thrusts without being overwhelming.
Weight Variations in Greatswords
There is no single standardized weight for all greatswords. Here are some factors that influence their weight:
- Size and Length: Greatswords ranged from around 50 to 72 inches (127 to 183 cm) in length, with handles typically adding an extra 18 to 21 inches (45 to 53 cm). A longer sword generally weighed more, but not always proportionally.
- Blade Width and Thickness: Thicker blades resulted in a heavier sword. The amount of steel used in the blade was a significant factor in weight.
- Material Density: The type of steel used also affected weight.
- Hilt and Pommel Design: The size and weight of the hilt and pommel were designed to balance the blade. Heavier pommels would offset a heavier blade, affecting the sword’s overall feel.
- Intended Purpose: Some greatswords were designed for display or ceremonial use, with those being often heavier than those designed for battle.
Average Greatsword Weights
- Typical Battlefield Greatsword: Most were between 6 to 10 pounds (2.7 to 4.5 kg).
- Lighter Greatswords (e.g., Some Claymores): Approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg).
- Heavier Zweihanders: Some of the largest zweihanders weighed between 4.5 to 7 pounds (2 to 3.2kg).
- Processional Greatswords: These were generally heavier, sometimes reaching 10 pounds (4.5 kg) or more, although often not designed for combat.
The Impact of Length and Balance
While weight is important, it’s crucial to understand that length and balance were equally if not more crucial. A well-balanced greatsword would feel much lighter than its actual weight. The long handle, designed for two-handed use, allowed for better leverage, allowing the wielder to generate considerable force. The distribution of weight, from the pommel to the tip of the blade, was meticulously considered by the swordsmith.
Historical Context and Misconceptions
The image of greatswords as unwieldy behemoths often comes from fantasy media. Historical evidence, as highlighted by renowned sword expert Ewart Oakeshott, indicates that medieval swords were not excessively heavy. Even the larger “hand-and-a-half” war swords rarely exceeded 4.5 pounds (2 kg), while the average sword weighed between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds (1.1 to 1.6 kg). This helps demonstrate that greatswords were not wildly outside of expected weights for larger swords.
It is also worth noting that the “two-handed” nature of these swords does not mean that one could not wield them with one hand; rather, they were designed for the balance and control that came from the two-handed grip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding greatsword weights:
How much did a two-handed sword weigh?
Two-handed swords, including greatswords, typically weighed around 5 to 7 pounds (2.3 to 3.2 kg), though lighter and heavier examples existed.
How much did a greatsword blade weigh?
A blade for an “average” late medieval sword weighed about 3 pounds (1.4 kg), whereas a two-handed greatsword blade (like a Landsknecht zweihander) could weigh up to 7-8 pounds (3.2 to 3.6 kg).
How heavy was a claymore Greatsword?
The average claymore was around 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg), with some variations based on its exact dimensions.
How heavy was the average medieval sword?
The average medieval sword weighed between 2.5 and 3.5 pounds (1.1 to 1.6 kg).
How heavy were Viking swords?
Viking swords ranged in weight from 2 to 4 pounds (1 to 2 kg).
How heavy is a katana?
A typical katana weighs between 2 to 2.6 pounds (0.9 to 1.2 kg), although some can be lighter or heavier.
How much did the heaviest swords weigh in history?
Some of the heaviest swords were not necessarily “greatswords” but larger specialized blades. Rajput king Maharana Pratap’s swords, for example, weighed approximately 25 kilograms (55 pounds) each.
How heavy is the fictional Buster Sword?
The Buster Sword from Final Fantasy VII is a fictional weapon of immense size. A real-world recreation of the sword weighs about 80 pounds.
How heavy is the Guts’ Dragonslayer sword?
The Dragonslayer from Berserk is considered to be of mythical weight, estimated by fans to be around 300 pounds (130 kilograms).
How heavy is a Monster Hunter greatsword?
A real-life recreation of a Monster Hunter greatsword weighed between 66 to 88 pounds (30 to 40 kg).
What is a real Ultra Greatsword (Dark Souls) based on and how heavy is it?
An ultra greatsword as depicted in Dark Souls is based on an historical zweihander. A heavy two hander would weigh about 3kg while the maximum of a Dark Souls “ultra greatsword” could go as high as 8kg or 17-18 lbs.
Are Claymore mines legal?
Claymore mines are legal for use by the US military, as the US is not a signatory to the Ottawa Treaty which prohibits their use. Note: These are not related to claymore swords.
How much does a real Claymore cost?
A real Claymore sword replica can cost around $1640.
How heavy is a longsword?
A longsword weighs approximately 2 to 3 pounds (1 to 1.5 kg), being somewhat smaller than greatswords.
How heavy is a battle axe?
War axes varied in weight from 1 to 7 pounds (0.5 to 3 kg), and in length, from 1 ft to 5 ft or more.
Conclusion
In summary, while greatswords were indeed large and powerful weapons, their weight is often exaggerated. A historical greatsword weighed between 6 and 10 pounds on average, but their design emphasized balance and maneuverability. The realities of these powerful weapons contrast with many fantastical portrayals. By considering the factors like blade length, width, and the purpose of the sword, we can better appreciate the true weight, and more importantly, the incredible engineering of these historical marvels.