Halberd
The versatile polearm combining axe, spear, and hook
The halberd is a composite polearm combining an axe blade, spear point, and hook on a single head. At 150-180cm total length, it can chop (axe), thrust (spear), and pull (hook) — a truly versatile weapon. Used as the primary anti-cavalry weapon by European infantry in the 15th-17th centuries, it was the signature weapon of Swiss mercenaries. The hook opposite the axe blade could pull mounted knights from their horses. Still used ceremonially by the Vatican Swiss Guard today.
Origin
Developed by 14th-century Swiss mountain infantry to counter cavalry. Swiss infantry became famous after defeating Austrian knights with halberds at Morgarten (1315) and Sempach (1386).
Features
- Axe blade + spear point + hook combination head
- Total length 150-180cm, weight 2.5-3.5kg
- Three attack modes: chop, thrust, hook
- Hook function to pull riders from horses
- Signature weapon of Swiss mercenaries
- Still used ceremonially by Vatican Swiss Guard
Usage
Infantry used the spear point to stop horses, axe blade to cut knights, and hook to pull them from horseback in combined tactical sequences.
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