List of premodern combat weapons


This is a list of historical pre-modern weapons grouped according to their uses, with rough classes set aside for very similar weapons. Some weapons may fit more than one category, and the earliest gunpowder weapons which fit within the period are also included.

Melee weapons

Hand or fist weapons and fans

Single-handed weapons not resembling a straight dagger blade, usually wielded without wrist action; often protects the forearm.
Thrusting and slicing weapons for close quarters melee. Col. D.H. Gordon's classification has been used where applicable.

Swords

Long swords were classified by Gordon as longer than 28 inches/71 cm.
Curved one-handed swords
Delineated as 20-28 inches/51–71 cm total length.
Straight shortswords
Generally, convex blades used for heavy chopping or slashing.
Sickles and sickle like knives
Generally short, concave blades used for heavy cutting.
Wielded with one or two hands at close quarters with swinging motions.

Pole weapons and spears

Wielded mainly with two hands. Primarily for melee with sweeping, thrusting, and or hooking motions.

Blunt staves

Thrown [|spears and javelins] are listed under [|ranged weapons].

Thrown

Spears and javelins

All could be used as [|polearm spears], but were designed and primarily used for throwing.
Could also be used as [|axe weapons], but were specifically designed for throwing.

[Longbow]s

Having a built-in gun or ranged weapon combined with some other type of weapon.

[Whip]s

Used for whipping.
Having multiple handles or holdable sections.
Having a heavy object attached to a flexible chain or rope. Wielded by swinging, throwing, or projecting the end, as well as wrapping, striking, and blocking with the chain or rope, sometimes attached to another type of weapon.

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[Shield]s

Used not only to block strikes and missiles but also swung outwardly to strike an opponent. Also used to rush an opponent. Some shields had spikes, sharp edges, or other offensive designs.