How heavy were the heaviest war hammers actually used?
Upvote:-2
The 14 kg version probably was polearm length, had a solid metal long handle making up most of its weight to retain usable balance.
Probably meant to be swung against a mounted opponent or against the poor steeds legs.
Probably used in organized combat, wouldnt be too useful once the lines broke down. Probably get dropped or perhaps heaved out into enemy territory at that point in favor of a smaller weapon!!
Upvote:0
look around at reproductions. most are just a couple pounds. I think that would be 1-3 kg but not good at converting. problem is too many people are ignorant of the actual historical weapon what was the warhammer. they picture the fantasy thing which would never be used in actual combat because it is too heavy to use repeatedly like a weapon would need to be. https://www.medievalcollectibles.com/product/foot-soldiers-war-hammer/ here is a reproduction at a little over 2 pounds in weight.
Upvote:3
The Highland Games Hammer Throw event for men uses either a 16 or 22 lb (7.2 or 10 kg) metal ball at the end of a 4 foot shaft, and is thrown with the feet in a fixed position (unlike the better known Olympic Hammer Throw, where the thrower can spin). This event is the direct predecessor for the Olympic Hammer Throw and seems likely to have evolved from the Medieval weapon of the same name.
It seems unlikely to me that a hammer significantly heavier than the 10 kg hammer used in the heavyweight version of this event was ever more than a decorative or experimental weapon.
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