Large Early Medieval Winged Spearhead, approx. 61 cm
The so-called winged or lugged spear, which was mostly used as a thrusting weapon and often gets associated with the Norsemen, is actually of Frankish Carolingian origin. Adopted by the Vikings, it continued to see service – as both a war spear and a hunting spear – well into the high Middle Ages.
On the battlefield, the protruding lugs on either side of the socket were intended both to prevent over-penetration in a strike (which would have made it more difficult to pull the spear out) and to parry enemy blows in the melee. When used for the hunt (as a so-called boar spear, specifically designed for wild boar and big game hunting), these lateral wings were not only designed to stop the spearhead from penetrating too deeply into the quarry, but also offered the hunter an additional level of control and protection from an injured, frantic animal.
The impressively large medieval spearhead we offer here is crafted from tempered EN45 high carbon steel. It is approx. 61 cm (24 in.) long and has approx. 45.5 cm (18 in.) long edges. The wings are approx. 4 mm thick. With such a massive blade, which strongly tapers from a broad base to a long, narrow point, the spear’s wielder would have been able not only to inflict deep and wide stab wounds, but also to deliver hewing and slashing / chopping blows. Two pre-drilled holes allow it to be secured onto the wooden staff of your choice to create your own winged spear or lance. The haft and additional mounting hardware are not included in the delivery.
Alternatively, collectors may purchase our wooden spearhead stand (available separately, product no. 1816375000) to display their treasures in style in their armoury.
Please note that this spearhead is primarily designed as a collectible, decoration piece or prop and by no means suited for combat re-enactment! The blade’s point is not rounded, and the edges are not sharpened, yet slightly ground (with suitable equipment and the necessary know-how and skills, they may be ground to sharpness if needed).
Details:
- Material: tempered EN45 spring steel (high carbon steel, not stainless)
- Overall length (incl. socket): approx. 61 cm
- Blade length: approx. 49 cm (edges approx. 45.5 cm)
- Max. blade width: approx. 10.5 cm
- Width at wings: approx. 12 cm
- Blade thickness: approx. 4 mm
- Length of socket: approx. 12 cm
- Inner diameter of socket: approx. 2.7 cm
- Weight: approx. 1.2 kg
Specs may slightly vary from piece to piece.
The steel used here is not rust-proof and might show slight surface tarnishing in places. We recommend you to maintain the spearhead on a regular basis, for example using Ballistol Universal Oil, which is ideally suited for steel care.
Please note:
We do not sell this product to customers under the age of 18. Please provide your birth date when ordering. We'll also need a copy of your ID-card or passport by email, scan, fax or mail.
