Engineering:List of traditional armaments

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This list of traditional armaments tries to include all "traditional" armaments. Essentially anything that is wieldable, excluding "modern" (post American civil war) firearms. It lists everything by typology in easy-to-reference tables for your searching convenience.

This catalog does not however presume to list every dialectal variant for the word spear, sword, etc. It only attempts to provide a broad range of designs or unique characteristics of various arms of historical or regional significance, i.e. items that stand out from the standard norm. This catalog may include some modern examples but it tries to lean towards weapons of the past.

For mythological or fictional arms see:

from the Morgan Bible
Mosaic of gladiators
Codex Manesse: a picture of mêlée at a tournament

How to read this table

Martial uses

  • Implement – (main use is a tool/but has been "known" to be used in battle or modified as a poor-mans weapon)
  • War – (battle tested and usually standard issue)
  • Practice – (hardly functional/can still be dangerous)
  • Civilian – (impracticable for warfare/battlefields, similar to martial art category but not as formalized. primarily used as a deterrent; for self-protection or dueling)
  • Improvised – (makeshift or grabbing/but recorded to have been used)
  • Martial art – (dueling and sparring/more likely to see it in a school than on the battlefield)
  • Historic – (not a type but a "named" blade or of historical significance)
  • Ceremony/ornament – (Main purpose is not as a weapon, but it isn't a toy either)
  • Parry – (A parrying knife/ "sword breaker" Typically used off-hand; Paired with a main weapon to shield from incoming blows, counterattack or disarm)
  • Relic – (surviving example of the ancient past, historic and precious )

First column header Prime example for comparison (weapon style/usage notation)

Era

  • ANCIENT – Dawn of civilization stone/Bronze Age
  • ANTIQUITY – (Mediterranean) Time of Greek & Roman states. roughly Iron Age
  • MEDIEVAL – (Europe) Middle Ages 476 AD to 1450 AD
  • RENAISSANCE – (Europe) 14th–16th centuries Europe
  • MODERN – came into use fairly recently in the human time line
  • TRADITIONAL – Modern use with roots in the distant past
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Synonyms

  • Throwing axes – labeled under tomahawks
  • Boomerang – labeled as a shuriken
  • Wooden swords – considered a club or truncheon based on overall shape
  • Cane sword – under rapier heading due to its blade function.
  • Shikomizue – under long truncheons due to its scabbard form.
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Pole arms and staff weapons

A pole with a weaponized tip; often used to counter mounted cavalry or to aid in infantry charges. Their benefit is their reach. Their hindrance is they are often hard to wield and transport, and tie up both hands; this usually leads to the need of a backup weapon such as a sword.

Main page: Engineering:Pole weapon

Surmounted "spear-like" head

conical(spiked) or triangular (dagger) tipped – used primarily for impaling

Lances/Cavalry

long spear with weight set back towards the handle or a light tip, used mainly while on horseback
Lances/cavalry spears Martial use Region of association Era of association
Lance General term Europe et al. era?
Sistan War Greece era?
Barchi ? Asia era?
Kontos ? Iran era?
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Pikes/Infantry

example image description
Several yari:
Tendency to be noticeably long and heavy, Sometimes requires a supporting strap; used in charges to gore, impail or trample and is not intended to be thrown

Category:Bayonets—Modern rifle pikes

Pike/infantry spears Martial use Region of association Era of association
Pike War Europe era?
Sarissa War Macedonia Antiquity
Military fork/many varieties Siege Europe era?
Partisan War Europe era?
Ranseur Ceremony/War Europe era?
Spetum ? Europe era?
Yari General term Japan Traditional
Qiang General term China era?
Bohemian earspoon ? ? era?
Brandistock Civilian/War Europe 16th–19th centuries
Spontoon War Europe 17th century
Dory Spear War Mediterranean Antiquity
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Javelins/Throwing/Skirmish

example image description
balanced for hurling but can be held, light spear
Javelin/throwing spears Martial use Region of association Era of association
Pilum/Peelon General term Rome Antiquity
Verutum War Roman era?
Spiculum War Roman era?
Lancea War Roman era?
Hasta War Roman era?
Falarica ? Iberia era?
Angon ? Frank Medieval
Soliferrum War Iberia era?
Assegai ? Africa Traditional
Sulica War Slavs Medieval
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Spear, Trident/Hunting, War

example image description
Poseidon sculpture holding a trident
Median between infantry pikes and javelins, often used by auxiliaries or non regular troops. Can be thrown, but best suited as a hand weapon for thrusting. Used in hunting and war. "The signature spear"
Spear/Food fetching Martial use Region of association Era of association
Spear General term Universal Transcendent
Iklwa(sword/spear) war Africa/Zulu era?
Spike bayonet ? Europe era?
Harpoon Implement Seacoasts era?
Korean spears General info/names Korea era?
One flue harpoon Implement ? era?
Two flue harpoon Implement ? era?
Toggling harpoon Implement ? era?
Sibat Implement/war Filipino era?
Ahlspiess ? Germany 15th–16th centuries
Boar spear Hunt/war Europe Antiquity
Vel Ceremony/Fantastic India Traditional
3 Great Spears Historic Japan era?
Spear of Fuchai Relic China era?
Brandistock/retractable War/civilian Europe 16th-19th centuries
Multi prong
Leister/Gig Fishing Widespread Traditional
Trident implement/weapon Widespread ancient to present
Trishula Ceremony ? era?
Dangpa-chang War Korea up until the 1900s
pitchfork Implement Widespread era?
Stingray spear War (single strike) New Zealand (Māori) Traditional
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Surmounted "sword-like" tip

Sabre shaped

example image description
A samurai wielding a naginata
downward choppers, allow tight formations or mounted reach
glaives/pole-swords Martial use Region of association Era of association
Glaive War Europe era?
Naginata War Japan Edo?
Nagamaki War Japan era?
Bisento War Japan era?
Guisarme/pruning hook Improvised Europe era?
Ngaw Elephant rider Thailand era?
Sovnya War Russia 13th–17th centuries
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Cleaver shaped

Blade is broader and squatter then the "glaive" types; machete-like
Squat blade/Pole-cleaver Martial use Region of association Era of association
Guandao Martial art China Traditional
Green Dragon Crescent Blade Historic China Myth?
Bisen-to War/MA Japan 5th century(+)
9 ring sabre/rattling guandao MA/shaolin Asia Traditional
Atgeir War Norselands era?
Voulge War Europe era?
Bill Improvised/War Europe era?
Chacing staff ? Europe era?
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Concave edge/Falcate

sharpened edge is on the concave rather than the convex side.
Pole scythe/Chopping Martial use Region of association Era of association
war scythe Improvised/War Europe era?
Falx War Europe era?
Fauchard Europe ? 11th–14th centuries
Siege hook War ? era?
Rhomphaia War Thrace 400bc
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Surmounted "axe-style" tip

example image description
halberds.
mostly used to batter/crush armor, deliver powerful blows
halberd/pole-axes Martial use Region of association Era of association
Halberd War/type Europe era?
Ox tongue/double-edged War Europe Medieval
poleaxe War Europe era?
Tabar Zin ? Persia era?
Ji ? China Traditional
Arbir ? Indonesia era?
Doloire Implement/war Europe era?
Lochaber axe War Europe era?
Gandasa Implement Punjab/India era?
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Surmounted hammer/mace/Pick

head can be blunt but often contains spikes/flukes the mace differs from the hammer in that it is radially symmetric
pole-mace/hammer Martial use Region of association Era of association
Bec de corbin War Europe era?
Dagger-axe War China Ancient
Roundhead War Europe era?
Chúi Martial art China Traditional
Lucerne hammer War Europe 15th–16th centuries
Tepoztopilli War/Spear-like Americas era?
Shakujo/Ringed staff Ceremony/MA-Shaolin China era?
Sceptre Ceremony Widespread era?
Crosier Ceremony Catholic states era?
Sucellus(good striker) Historic Ireland Mythic
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Battle staves/counterbalanced

Monk's Spade
used for ground fighting with a wide berth, centrally balanced can have two weaponized tips, or ferruled (metal caps)
quarterstaffs/dual tipped Martial use Region of association Era of association
Quarterstaff Defense/Term Europe era?
La canne Martial art France era?
Plong martial art Thailand Modern/Traditional
Baton francais martial art France Traditional
Chilambamboo MA/Ceremony/Defense India Ancient
Shareeravadi/bamboo pole Martial art India Traditional
Naboot Martial art Egypt era?
General term Japan Traditional
Gun (staff) General term China Traditional
Hanbō martial art Japan Traditional
Martial art Japan Traditional
Tanbō Martial art Japan Traditional
Weaponized/Bladed tips
Monk's spade martial art Orient Traditional
pugil stick practice United States Modern
Double naginata Fantastic Graphic forms Modern
Farsha/both tips dbl axe Fantastic India Mythic?
Taiaha/spear & blade ends War New Zealand (Māori) Traditional
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Man catchers/indirect lethality

example image description
Thief catchers: left- tsukubō, center- sodegarami, right-sasumata
used to hook or grasp an adversary so he can be dispatched or arrested
mancatcher/grasping Martial use Region of association Era of association
Man catcher Dismounting Europe era?
Witch catcher Arrest/Inquisition Europe era?
Sodegarami Arrest Japan Traditional
Tsukubō Arrest Japan Traditional
Sasumata Arrest Japan Traditional
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Hafted/fitted onto handles

Socketed heads, fitted on a short staff or stick carved into a handle "HELVE"

Used to break armor, shields, and bone by virtue of kinetic impact

wedge-shaped or crescent-edged blade used to cleave

Hafted one-handed

Can be thrown or wielded, hafted weapons consist of a heavy head inset on a short handle and are used to deliver powerful blows

Tomahawks/hammers/picks

example image description
A pipe tomahawk
tries to cleave through objects or leave a nasty gaping hole. Differ from maces in that they have specified working faces. Often balanced for throwing
hatchet/chopping Martial use Region of association Era of association
Tomahawk Term/Impl/War/Throw North America era?
Hatchet Implement Universal era?
Boarding axe Ship siege High seas era?
Ono Implement/war Japan era?
Fasces Ceremony Rome Classical
Throwing Axe Terminology Widespread era?
Francisca War/Throwing West Europe era?
Nzappa zap War/Throwing Africa era?
Hunga Munga War/Throwing:Unique look Africa era?
Sapper Improvised:used like an axe Europe World War I-modern
Hurlbat War Europe/Throwing Medieval
Blunted
War club(stone hammer) War ? Ancient
Mallet Implement ? Ancient
Hammer Tool/Weapon Widespread era?
Spiked or spurred
Ice axe Implement ? Era?
Chicken sickles martial art:firepoker look region era?
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Maces

example image description
Flanged maces
Both club-like and hammer-like, head is fitted onto a handle, sometimes singularly forge. It has a radially symmetric striking head, more practical then a hammer as it is not off-balance.
mace/batter, picture Martial use Region of association Era of association
Mace General term Universal era?
Morning star Description Europe era?
Ceremonial mace Ceremony Widespread era?
Stone-head mace War Egypt Ancient
Mace of king scorpion Relic/Ceremony Egypt Ancient
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Hafted/two hander

Longer helve to accommodate two hands and a heavier tip

Axes/battle axes

example image description
A heavy head requires two hands to swing and aim properly.
axe/chop, cleave Martial use Region of association Era of association
Axe General term Universal Traditional
Battle axe War/Term ? era?
Broadaxe Implement/Geometry ? era?
Valaška Implement/historic Poland era?
Sagaris ? ? era?
Labrys/Dbl edge Historic/Icon Greece Antiquity
Palstave Type/Relic Europe Bronze Age
Masakari/Monk's axe ? Japan era?
Zulu Axe/half moon War Africa(Zuly) traditional
Skeggox/Bearded axe Impli/War/Style Norse 6th century
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Hammers/Mauls/Pickaxes

example image description
War hammer
A smaller surface area then an axe used to concentrate impact energy to a point. note: many hammers have an axehead or beak and axes can have a hammerhead but one is usually meant to be used as the primary end.
warhammer/batter, puncture Martial use Region of association Era of association
Pickaxe Implement Widespread era?
Dolabra(pickaxe) Implement Roman Antiquity
Mattock Implement Widespread era?
War Hammer War Europe era?
Horseman's pick War Europe Medieval
Maul Implement ? era?
Otsuchi/giant mallet Siege/battering Japan era?
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Hafted-like/short pole mounted

example image description
A scythe
examples of a bardiche.
Many short polearms behave like a hafted object. this is the bastard class of polearms with a handle too short to be a pole but too long to be a helve
scythe/intermediate Martial use Region of association Era of association
Scythe Implement Widespread Traditional
Bardiche War Europe era?
Danish axe War Europe era?
Dissasembler/2hand cleaver Implement slaughterhouses Traditional
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Hilted blades/fitted into handles

Main pages: Engineering:Blade and Engineering:Hilt

Tang fitted into a handle, can often have hand guards

Knives

example image description
A typical James Black/Musso pattern S-guard bowie knife
Kentish brishing hooks
Kama
A knife is usually single edged, prime usage is to slice/chop but some have stabbing tips.
Main page: Engineering:Knife
Blade styles.
Knives/cutting, slicing Martial use Region of association Era of association
Sheath knives
Tantō/blade style ? Japan era?
Puukko Term/Hunting implement Finish/Scandinavian era?
Misericorde War ? Medieval
Bich'hwa ? India era?
Sharpfinger/Style Skinning/Implement America Modern
Kukri/Gurkha/ (bent blade) Combat Nepal Traditional
Bowie knife Multi purpose America Modern
Rampuri Thuggery/Icon India 19th century?
Kinmen Knife/Design Implement/Historic China Modern
Survival knife Implement ? Modern
Combat knife War/tool ? era?
Boot knife Wear style ? era?
KM2000 combat Germany Modern
Trench knife Iprov/war Europe World War I
Morey MK 1 Rare/style/War ? Modern
KA-BAR Combat U.S.issue World War II onward
Athame/black handle Ceremony/wicca ? Traditional
Folding knives
Switchblade/used as a dagger Civilian ? era?
Pocket knife/Folding Utility/style Widespread era?
Sebenza civilian U.S. Modern
Strider SMF Marine, Issued U.S. Modern
Navaja/Large folding Combat/Civilian Spain 15th century(+)
Straight razor Implement/civil Widespread Ancient roots
Knife-like/warped blades
Billhook Implement Europe era?
Sickle Implement Universal era?
Kama Improvised/MA Japan Traditional
Karambit/Claw-like ? SE Asia isles Traditional
Haladie/S-shaped War (armor piercing) India Traditional
Kujang ? Sudan/Indonesia era?
Crooked knife Implement Native America Easterwoods era?
Boline/white handle Ceremony/Wicca ? Traditional
Other
Glass knife Implement/? ? Ancient roots
Shocknife/electric Training World Wide Modern
Ballistic knife War Russian:special forces Modern
Tumi Ceremony/Sacrifice Peru Ancient
Bone knife (carved) Ceremony ? era?
Hand axe/rock-shard Implement Widespread Ancient
Ovate handaxe/egg-shape Implement Widespread Ancient
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Daggers

example image description
F-S fighting knife.
A standard icepick
Two sai
A dagger is often triangular and double edged but sometimes edgeless and tapers to a sharp point. Prime usage is to pierce, but some can also cut. When a knife's purpose and design is to be used as a weapon rather than for utility it is usually called a dagger.
Main page: Engineering:Dagger
Daggers/stabbing, parrying Martial use Region of association Era of association
Parrying dagger/Specialized War/offhand Europe Late Medieval
Kard War Levant 18th century and earlier
Misericorde/Mercy killer term/Dispatching Europe Medieval
Amphismela Term ? era?
Kaiken General term Japan era?
Bollock dagger Style British 13th-18th centuries
Stiletto/style type War ? era?
Jambiya General term Arabia Traditional
Khanjar/hook shape ? Oman/Arabia Traditional
Khanjali ? Country of Georgia era?
Poignard ? ? Medieval/Renaissance
Rencong Ceremony Aceh/Indonesia era?
Bhuj ? Sindh/India era?
Pugio Backup Roman Antiquity
Parazonium Historic Roman Antiquity
Obe ? Africa era?
Yoroi toshi ? Japan era?
Ear dagger Rare style Europe Renaissance
Facon Combat South America era?
Hunting dagger Dispatching game Germany 18th century
Sgian dubh Ceremony Scotland Traditional
Thracian dagger Relic Thrace era?
Trench Knife Improvised/War Europe World War I
V-42 stiletto War ? World War II
Gerber Mark II style/war U.S. issue World War II onward
F-S stiletto War England Modern
US Marine Raider stiletto Combat Issued World War II
Spike/edgeless
Phurba Ceremony Tibet Traditional
Rondel Combat Europe Late Medieval
Shank/Shiv Improvised Prisons Modern
Ice pick Implement ? era?
Quadrant/4 prong Arena battle Rome Classical
Sai Parry/Martial art Japan era?
Oak Stake Historic Europe Myth
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Short swords/long knives

The iffy category between dagger and knife and sword. Most chopping backswords are here as well as daggers over 12"

Stabbers

example image description
Dirk
Kris
Bayonet M. 1898/05 used by Prussians during WW1
Hard to classify implements that have long dagger-like blades, not quite a sword or a dagger in feel. Primarily a stabbing weapon.
long dagger/stabbing Martial use Region of association Era of association
Gladius War Rome/Mediterra/Euro era?
1832 Artillery sword War U.S. Mid 1800s
Kris/wavey blade Ceremony Asia era?
Taming Sari Historic Philippine/Malay Myth
Anelace ? Euro Medieval
Acinaces War Persia era?
Cinquedea Civilian Italy era?
Seme ? Maasai tribe/Africa Traditional
Dirk ? Euro era?
Poniard Parry/Decor Europe Medieval
Small sword Decoration Euro era?
Hunting sword Implement Euro era?
Baselard ? Swiss era?
Bayonet War Euro era?
Quillion Parry/hilt Europe era?
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Chopping sword

example image description
A ninjatō
4th-century BC Iberian falcata (M.A.N., Madrid).
Chinese Dao Knife or Sabre
Butterfly Swords
like a knife but longer, often single edged, rounded tip but sometimes tapers to a point. Blades intended to hack are often heavier at the tip and wide. Blades designed for slicing have curved edges and tend to be thinner
long knife/chop, slice Martial use Region of association Era of association
narrow blade
Ninjato/Ninjaken Civilian Japan era?
Wakizashi Ceremony/war Japan era?
Seax/Scramsax Implement/war Euro era?
Bolo/Itak/Talibong Implement Philippines era?
Kullu Machan/Claw shaped Implement Indonesia Traditional
Kodachi ? Japan era?
Hachiwara Parrying Japan era?
Klewang Implement Indonesia era?
Golok Implement Indonesia era?
Kirpan ? Mid east era?
Pinuti Implement Philippines era?
Makhaira War Greece era?
undulated edge ~
Falcata ? Mediterranean era?
Kopis Sacrifice/war Mediterranean era?
Yatagan War Turkey era?
Sappara War ? Ancient
broad/saberish shape
Machete Implement Worldwide era?
Smatchet/leaf bladed WAR Brit/America World War I
Sami knife Implement North Europe Traditional
Coa/round tip Implement Central America era?
Butterfly sword martial art China era?
Vettukathi (sword) Martial art India Traditional
Parang implement Indonesia era?
Cane knife implement South America era?
Corvo implement/War Chile era?
Cutlass Naval/war Europe era?
Großmesser/Hiebmesser ? Europe era?
Falchion ? Europe era?
Dao (sword) General term China era?
Dadao hand & 1/2 ? China era?
Nader Shah's Sword Relic/Crown Jewel Persia era?
Sword of Saint Peter Relic Poland contested
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Swords-one handed

Main page: Engineering:Sword

Curved/sabre-like

example image description
Shan's dha
Blades designed to draw-cut or chop they are often curved and single edged. Typically used as a cavaliers (horsemans) side arm.
sabre/backswords Martial use Region of association Era of association
Saif General term Mid Eastern era?
Sabre/Briquet Cavalry Europe/America near modern
Mameluke sword Ceremony/Dress Western Modern
Schweizersabel ? Swiss 15th-17th centuries
Shashka War Russia era?
Pulwar ? Afghan era?
Kilij ? Turkey era?
Szabla ? Slavic era?
Talwar ? India era?
Shamshir ? Persia era?
Scimitar ? Middle East era?
Dha ? Thailand era?
Niuweidao Civilian China era?
"Patton Saber" War ? Modern
Carol I, Saber Relic Romania era?
Korbschläger MA/fencing Germany Modern
Glockenschläger MA/fencing Germany Modern
Less pronounced curve
Koncerz/long & straight War Poland 15th century(+)
Nimcha ? Africa era?
Agedengbe ? Africa era?
Tanmagayi ? Africa era?
Tachi War Japan era?
Liuyedao War China era?
Piandao ? China era?
Karabela War Europe era?
Krabi/crabbie Martial art Thailand Traditional
Zulfiqar Historic/icon Arabia era?
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Straight/Jian-like

example image description
Spatha, Viking
Khanda
Straight blades are meant for thrusing but can also inflict cuts; often double edged and have a pointed tip.
Spatha/stab, hack Martial use Region of association Era of association
Broad sword War/Term varies Europe era?
Curtana Ceremony ? era?
Spadroon War Europe era?
Flamberge General term Europe era?
Spatha War Mediterranean era?
Viking sword War/heirloom Europe era?
Celtic sword War Europe era?
Cawood sword/Viking Relic Yorkshire ?
Colada/of El Cid Historic West Europe ?
Tizona/of El Cid Relic West Europe 1002
Bamburgh Sword Relic Northumberland estimated 7th century
Pernik sword Relic Bulgaria Medieval
Xiphos War Greek era?
Schiavona War Europe Renaissance
Katzbalger/S-8 guard skinning cats Europe era?
Mortuary sword/basket hilt ? Europe era
Side-sword War Europe era?
Arming sword/Knight's War Europe era?
Szczerbiec Relic/Ceremony Poland Traditional
Flyssa ? Africa era?
Kaskara ? Africa era?
Takoba/Tokouba ? Africa era?
Chokuto ? Japan era?
Hwandudaedo War Korea era?
Saingeom ? Korea Joshuan
Jian ? China era?
Sword of Goujian Relic China era?
Sword of Victory Historic Thailand era?
Seven-Branched Sword Relic/Ceremony China era?
Kalis ? Philippines era?
Kampilan ? Philippines era?
Khanda ? India era?
Nandao ? China era?
Kusanagi Historic Japan Mythical?
Yanmaodao ? China era?
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Rapier-like/Dueling swords

example image description
Rapier, first half of the 17th century.
A thin often "springy", straight blade intended for thrusting. Light weight for quick movements but at same time lessens cutting power. Not usually suited for war, but instead used for civilian dueling and sport. Often allows paired wielding "rapier and dagger" or duo-wielding "double sword"
Rapier/Stabbing, dueling Martial use Region of association Era of association
bilbo Historic Europe era?
dueling sword Dueling Europe late 17th-19th centuries
Colichemarde War/Dueling region? era?
Espada ropera Civilian Spain 16th-17th centuries
Rapier Civilian Europe 16th-17th centuries
Small sword Dueling/Ornament France 17th-18th centuries
Pariser/sharp tip Martial art Germany era?
Flamberge/blade style MA/vibration ? era?
Epee/edgeless martial art Europe era?
Foil/blunt tip martial art Europe era?
Taijijian Martial art China Traditional
Cane-swords
Cane-sword Civilian Widespread era?
Dolon ? Rome Antiquity
Sword umbrella civilian Europe era?
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Sword-like/hooked/warped

Sword-like, not easily definable, can be falcate/sickle-shaped or warped
khopesh/hooking Martial use Region of association Era of association
Hook sword Martial art China Obscure roots
Shotel War/organ piercing Africa era?
Aruval ? India era?
Harpe Historic Mediterranean Myth
Khopesh War Levant/north Africa Ancient
Kiddo War Philistine Ancient
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Two-handed swords

The two-handed sword's hilt is long enough to accommodate both hands; to increase thrust or chop power. Many can be held with just one hand but are more effective with two

Katana/2-handed sabres

Katana shape
Resembling a sabre but with a longer handle to allow the blade to pivot between two hands and increase cutting power
katana/power strike Martial use Region of association Era of association
Katana Ceremony/war Japan era?
Tachi/style? ? Japan era?
Kriegsmesser ? Germany era?
Miaodao War China era?
Dotanuki ? Japan era?
Iaito Practice Japan era?
Hengdang Ceremony India Traditional
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Longsword/2H Thrust & hack

A longsword
Typically a straight blade tapering to a sharp point. Their hilt accommodates two hands to allow the attacker to put his weight behind the attack
Long sword/power thrust Martial use Region of association Era of association
Longsword ? Europe era?
Estoc ? Europe era?
Guy of Warwick's Sword Relic England est 13th century
Jewelled Sword of Offering Ceremony England Traditional
Warbrand/cavalry sword historic Europe Medieval
Shuang shou jian ? China era?
Executioner's sword Capital punishment Europe era?
Sword of Justice Execution Widespread era?
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Hand-and-half swords

hard to categorize, intermediate from a one to a two hander, often a ricosso near hilt
bastard/hack, thrust Martial use Region of association Era of association
Bastard sword General term Europe era?
Excalibur Fantasy Europe Mediaeval/myth
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Great swords/horse killers

example image description
a Nodachi:
A Flammenschwert. This is a two-handed sword.
Typically tries to clobber the opponent by virtue of its heavy blade, rather than cut or pierce; it can be impracticably large but its handle is still a hilt design.
zweihander/smiting Martial use Region of association Era of association
Sabre-like
Otachi War/Ceremony Japan era?
Nodachi ? Japan era?
Kogarasu Maru Field sword, Anti-cavalry Japan era?
Okatana War Japan era?
Zanbato Ornamental Japan era?
Changdao War China era?
Wodao War China era?
Zhanmadao War China era?
Straight bladed cleavers
Greatsword General term Europe era?
Zweihander ? Europe era?
Flammenschwert Blade design Europe era?
Claymore General term Europe era?
Wallace Sword Contested Relic Britain era?
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Loaded fists

Enhances punching power by increasing mass of the hand or concentrating force onto a smaller area

Blunt, more or less

Brass knuckles
gloves, wraps, rings, knuckle guards, grips,
Knuckle duster/KAPOW! Martial use Region of association Era of association
Brass knuckles/Knuckle duster Civilian ? era?
Cestus(leather wrap) Sport Rome Antiquity
Muai Cad Chuke (Cord wrap) Martial art Thailand Traditional
Tekko/Abumi Improvised ? era?
Tekagi-shuko/Neko-te MA/Ninja Japan Traditional
Yawara Martial art/Civilian Japan Traditional
Kubotan/keychain Civilian ? Modern
Shobo MA/Ninja Japan Traditional
Suntetsu martial art Japan era?
Vajra Mushti martial art India Traditional
Yubi-bo MA/Ninja Japan Traditional
Millwall brick Improvised England Modern
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Bladed fist

An ulu from Alaska
cross handle gripped blades; similar to knives/shortswords
Push dirks/Cool factor Martial use Region of association Era of association
Bagh nakh/tiger claws martial art Asia era?
Shuko/Bear claws martial art/Ninja Japan era?
Push dirk/boot knife Civilian ? era?
Pata/sword gauntlet ? India era?
Lantern shield/sword gauntlet Civilian Europe medieval
Katar (कटार) ? ? era?
Rajput Kitar War(scissor-like) India era?
Grip knife Martial art ? era?
Karambit Martial art ? Traditional
Karambit/dbl bladed martial art Indonesia era?
Haladie/dbl bladed War India Traditional
Ulu Implement Inuit Traditional
Deer horn knives martial art China era?
Madu/antelope horn Parry India
Wind and fire wheels martial art China era?
Srbosjek/glove-like Enormity Croatia World War II
Cargo hook/box hook Improvised High seas era?
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Bludgeons/clubs

blunt (but not always) weapons. traditionally fabricated from naturally originating material, often using only stoneage technology. Primarily used to cause deep tissue damage (contusions) rather than cuts.

Truncheons/canes/Stick-shaped

A pair of Tonfa
A crook and flail.
short, one-handed staves used to beat, jab, block and deflect strikes, or gain leverage during joint locks used against foes. They tend to be stick-shaped, round, not very thick and radially symmetrical. Sometimes they incorporate some devise to aid the grip so it will not slip.
Stick weapon/defense Martial use Region of association Era of association
Short Sticks
Mai sokki/ (tonfa look) Martial art Thailand Modern/Traditional
Macana/Shard studded War Americas era?
Single stick/Wood sword Practice Europe era?
Kurunthadi Martial art India Traditional
Billy club/Baton/night-stick Police Widespread Traditional
Baton (symbol) Ceremony ? Traditional
Tonfa/style with many names Martial art ? era?
Swagger stick Punishment/Symbol ? Traditional
Long sticks
Makila Implement/icon Basques of West Europe era?
Federschwert/wood sword practice Europe Renaissance
Shinai/bamboo sword Practice/MA Asia era?
Lathi Martial art India era?
Jitte/jute/wood sword martial art Japan era?
Crook/hooked tip Implement ? ancient
Cane/walking stick Implement/icon ? era?
Bokken/wood sword Practice/MA Japan era?
Suburito/wood sword Practice/MA Japan era?
Tanbō Martial art Japan Traditional
Shikomizue/Concealed sword Civilian Japan Traditional
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Clubs/Widening end

Clubs tend to be hefty and sturdy; typically graduating from a handle to a weighted tip of larger size. Some have an edge that can split open a head. Normally fabricated from a single piece of wood.

The hero and god Heracles
Club/clobbering Martial use Region of association Era of association
Crow bar Improv/Civilian ? era?
Tire iron Improv/Civilian ? Modern
Frying pan/cast iron Improv/Civilian ? era?
Helve/axehandle Implement Universal era?
Waddy War/Ceremony/Hunt Australia Traditional
Trench raiding club Improvised/War Europe World War I
Dussack/Wood sword Practice Germany 16th century
Indian club Improvised India era?
Waster/wood sword Practice ? era?
Macuahuitl War/sword-like Americas Pre-Columbian
Femur Improvised ? era?
Belaying pin Improvised High seas era?
Ass jaw Improvised/Theology Philistine Biblical
Otta Martial art India Traditional
Paddle Punitive ? Traditional
Leiomono/shark-toothed club war/sword-like Polynesian tribes Traditional
Mere (weapon)/Stone paddle club War Māori:only south isle Traditional
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Two handed clubs/bats

Tend to be heavier and less balanced than the quarter staff, usually made from a single piece of hardened wood or other material. Typically too short to be considered a polearm and too off-balance to be effectively used with only one hand

an oni armed with a kanabō.
bats/braining Martial use Region of association Era of association
Planson/iron shod bat War ? Medieval
Shillelagh/short or long Civilian/historic/Icon Ireland era?
hockey stick/Hoquet civilian Western Modern
baseball bat civilian America Modern
Eku/war oar Improvised/War ? era?
boat oar civilian region? era?
cricket bat civilian Europe era?
Kuwa/Hoe-like ? Okinawa era?
golf club civilian Western era?
Kanabo/studded bat martial art Japan Traditional
Plancon a picot War Europe Medieval
Taiaha Martial art/War New Zealand Traditional
Tewhatewha Ceremony New Zealand Traditional
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Soft and segmented weapons

"soft" as opposed to "rigid" weapons. Typically they consist of a handle and a weaponized tip attached to each other by a flexible body of rope, chain, etc. This gives them a longer reach or incorporates mechanical advantage to increase momentum and thus striking power. The trade-off is that they are more difficult to control and may harm nearby allies or even the wielder himself. they also require open space so not to be snagged on or impeded by nearby obstacles and thus rendered ineffective.

Scourges/short tongs

A small martinet.
More of a tool for corporal punishment and a "psychological" weapon. It can inflict horrible wounds, especially when weaponized with barbs or weights.
scourge/punishment Martial use Region of association Era of association
Scourge corporal punishment region era?
Flagellum corporal punishment Roman era?
Cat o' nine tails corporal punishment region era?
Scorpeone Punishment Roman Antiquity
Buntot Pagi/stingray Apotrope/MA Philippines Traditional
Knout Punishment/Icon Russian era?
Nagyka improvised/Icon Russia era?
Sjambok/litupa Improvised/Icon South Africa era?
Martinet Punitive France/Europe era?
Crop/1 stiffish tong improvised ? era?
Maza Whip/wooden switch Pain Ritual Africa(Ethiopia/Hama) Traditional
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Whips/long lash

10ft 12 Plait Bullwhip
Most whips are impractical as a real-world weapon but often thought of as such, mostly due to fantastic depictions. like the scourge it is more useful as a tool of intimidation, but it can cause lethal damage. The bullwhip is iconic in the Indiana Jones movies and used as a grapple. In the movie "High plains drifter" starring Clint Eastwood, The plot revolves around whips being used as weapons by a gang of thugs to torture and kill the main character.
Whip/scare n snare Martial use Region of association Era of association
Switch/flexible rod Punitive Widespread era?
Urumi/Chuttuval/wire whip martial art India era?
Chain whip/connected rods martial art China Traditional
Bullwhip Implement/hunt Widespread era?
Stockwhip Implement Australia era?
Kurbash/rhinohide strap Torture/Icon Turkey era?
Quirt Improvised ? era?
Rebenque/rawhide Implement South America era?
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Rope darts/Meteor hammers

A weighted object at the end of a "long" flexible body, used to ensnare, cause injury and as a deterrent from attack. It is difficult to master. said to be unblockable as it will simply wrap around any attempt and still strike the target behind.
ropedart/defense Martial use Region of association Era of association
Rope dart Martial arts/term Orient era?
Slungshot/loaded sleeves martial art/Civilian Orient Modern
Meteor hammer martial art Orient era?
Kyoketsu shoge/chain+spur Historic/Ninja Japan era?
Kusarigama/chain+sickle Anti-Siege/MA Japan Traditional
Manriki-gusari Martial art Japan Traditional
Surujin martial art Okinawa Traditional
Lariat/lasso Capture/icon U.S. cowboys/others Traditional
Dragon beard hook Man fishing China Traditional
Pikoi club/Flying club War Hawaii Traditional
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Flails/Segmented weapons

Flail
types of nunchaku
A handle and a swiple (weight) connected by a "short" section of chain or rope. Often appears as a segmented mace. Its main advantage is it imparts no vibrational energy to the wielder when the hammer end strikes a target. However, the behavior of that hammer can be unpredictable and cause personal or undesired injury if one is not sufficiently skilled.
Flail/Crushing Martial use Region of association Era of association
Weaponized Flail War Europe Medieval
Flail Implement Widespread Ancient
Chang xiao ban/grain flail Martial art ? Traditional
Ball and chain War Europe Medieval
Chigriki/staff+chain MA/ninja traditional
Samjiegun/3 piece staff martial art ? era?
san set sukon 3-PC staff Martial art ? traditional
Nunchuku improvised/MA Japan Traditional
Tabak-Toyok MA/nunchuku style Philippines Traditional
Kusari-fundo martial art Japan Traditional
Slapjack/blackjack Improvised ? era?
Loaded sock improvised/civilian widespread era?
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Oddities/Hard to classify

Just too fantastic to believe, but there is truth in it

shirts
Oddballs/Weapon Martial use Region of association Era of association
Nine-toothed Rake Historic China Mythic?
Tessen/fighting fan martial art Japan era
Emeici/Emei daggers Martial art China Traditional
Beer bottle/broken Improvised Bars era?
Fire hoop/torch wheel War Europe Medieval
Trump/Fire lance War (black-powder torch) Europe Medieval
Bulgarian umbrella Assassination ? era?
Brace blade Fantastic ? era?
Siangham/fighting arrow Martial art Malaysia era?
Yo-yo/meteor hammer Fantastic Japan/Anime Modern
Electroshock weapon Peace keeping Universal Modern
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Throwing objects

Uses nothing but old fashioned muscle power, but may utilize a tool for extra leverage

Slings/atlatls/device aided

Home-made sling.
A tool extends the radius of the arm for extra mechanical advantage
Skirmish weapon/Hunting, pelting Martial use Region of association Era of association
Sling Bullet launcher Widespread Ancient
Snapsling hand catapult ? Ancient
Atlatl Arrow-like dart/spear launcher ? Prehistoric
Hulche/one of many atlatl type devises Arrow-like dart ? Prehistoric
Woomera Spear-launcher Australia Ancient/Tradition
Swiss arrow ? Europe era?
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Shurikens/grenades

Anything intended for throwing; from specially balanced blades, to clay pots, and heavy sticks
shuriken/harassment Martial use Region of association Era of association
Edged
Shuriken term/Ninja Japan Traditional
Shaken/Kurumaken MA/Shuriken type Japan Traditional
Throwing knife Martial art widespread era?
Chakram/Wheel War India Ancient
Kunai/T-dart martial art/Ninja Japan Traditional
Mambele/T-knife ? Africa era?
Flechette/drop darts War Europe World War II
Plumbata/dart Skirmish Roman era?
Sticks
Throwing stick War/hunt Widespread Ancient
Boomerang Hunting/war/Icon Australia Traditional
Rungu War/hunt/Icon Massai tribe/Africa Traditional
Valari War/Hunt India Traditional
Isakela War/Hunt Africa(Zulu) Traditional
Knobkierrie/throwing cane Hunt/civilian Africa Traditional
Round or frangible
Grenade War/Term Widespread Ancient china/Modern
Molotov cocktail/incendiary Skirmishing Widespread era?
Anything intended for throwing; from specially balanced blades, to clay pots, and heavy sticks
shuriken/harassment Martial use Region of association Era of association
Edged
Shuriken term/Ninja Japan Traditional
Shaken/Kurumaken MA/Shuriken type Japan Traditional
Throwing knife Martial art widespread era?
Chakram/Wheel War India Ancient
Kunai/T-dart martial art/Ninja Japan Traditional
Mambele/T-knife ? Africa era?
Flechette/drop darts War Europe World War II
Plumbata/dart Skirmish Roman era?
Sticks
Throwing stick War/hunt Widespread Ancient
Boomerang Hunting/war/Icon Australia Traditional
Rungu War/hunt/Icon Massai tribe/Africa Traditional
Valari War/Hunt India Traditional
Isakela War/Hunt Africa(Zulu) Traditional
Knobkierrie/throwing cane Hunt/civilian Africa Traditional
Round or frangible
Grenade War/Term Widespread Ancient china/Modern
Stinkpot/clay jar Distraction High seas era?
Sting pot/bees, wasps, scorpions Harassment Siege era?
Firepot/clay jar Incendiary High seas era?
Metsubushi/Cascaron/Black egg improvised/Ninja Japan & others era?
Chains/ropes- (leave the hand)
Bolas Hunting/Snare Spain era?
Manriki/throwing chain MA/Ninja Japan era?
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Ranged weapons

Objects launched by an engine/device held in hand that impart a velocity unattainable if thrown

Bows/Cross-bows

Bow & arrow
A sharp tip attached to a shaft (appearing as a mini spear); launched by a string under tension created by a spring-like object.
Bows/arrow launcher Martial use Region of association Era of association
Draw bows
Holmegaard Hunt/War Denmark Mesolithic-Bronze Age
Gungdo/composite War Korea era?
Yumi War/Term Japan Ancient
Azusayumi Ceremony Japan era?
English longbow War/Hunt England Medieval
Perso-Parthian bow/composite War Persia era?
Mongol bow War/Hunt Mongolia era?
Hungarian bow /(magyar) War Hungary era?
Turkish bow Cavalry archer/Flight archery Central Asia era?
Cross bows/Bolt launcher
Arbalest War Europe Medieval
Skåne Lockbow Hunt/war Sweden 16th century
Scorpio /Triggerfish War Roman Antiquity
Gastraphetes War Greek era?
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Blow guns and other Ejecters

Propelled/bullet, darts Martial use Region of association Era of association
Blow gun Hunting region era
Y shot Hunting/Sport Widespread Modern
Fukiya/blowgun MA/ninja Japan Traditional
Spit ball/straw & wet wad Vexing others Schools ?
Paper wasp vexing others schools ?
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Firearms/muskets

Projectiles often formed from lead and in various shapes; launched by a device using the force of expanding gas created from the burning of black powder (gunpowder) contained in a semi-sealed tube

Pistols/short barrel

"Hand bombard", France, 1390-1400.
Hand cannon from the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368).
held in one hand; easily concealable and transportable
Guns/Killing Description brief Region of association Era of association
Fire lance Distraction/War China era?
Huochong bamboo protogun China era?
Fire arrow A deadly bottle rocket China era?
Blunderbuster wide mouth musket High seas era?
Pistol sword Novelty Europe era?
Gun umbrella Civilian France 1880
Cane gun Civilian ? era?
Petronel proto pistol and carbine ? 16th or 17th century
Culverin/hand cannon proto-musket Europe 15th–16th centuries
Hand Bombard/hand cannon fired stone balls Europe Medieval
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Shouldered guns/long barrel

  • List of Springfield rifles/muskets
musketeers in drill formation
long barrel for accuracy and range but requires two hands to steady it
style/use Description brief Region of association Era of association
Musketoon short barrel ? era?
Rifled musket accuracy innovation ? 19th century?
Wall gun required a rest ? 16th–18th centuries?
Gingal/wall gun it's big China/India 19th century
Brown bess/musket British musket ? 1722–1838
Jezail/musket Muslim lands Middle East era?
Charleville musket accurate but small calibre Canada 1700s–1800s
Arquebus/musket Low velocity Canada 15th-17th centuries
Caliver Arquebus derived ? 16th century
Elephant gun large calibre big-game ? 1800s
Potato gun/hairspray cannon Wear eye protection ? Modern
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Bullets/Missiles/Projectiles

A launcher is useless without its companion weapon
Missile name Launcher Description brief
Sling bullet sling shot a sizeable round stone or pebble
Dart (missile) blow gun a sharp thorn attached to a bead or feathers
arrow bow dagger tip on a wooden shaft and flight feathers
Quarrel/Bolt cross bow like an arrow minus the fletching
flechette musket edged debris, flak fired from muzzle loader
Bullet guns many forms
Lead shot/buck shot shotgun a number of tiny metal pellets
Shotgun slug gun cylindrical lead projectile
buck and ball gun numerous tiny balls with one big one
ball ammunition gun conical lead projectile
pellet (air gun) air gun/blow gun .
BB gas gun tiny metal ball singularly fired
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Passive weapons/Anti personnel/Area denial

Set it and forget it
Boobytraps/Hold Territory Martial use Region of association Era of association
Caltrops Anti-cavalry ? era?
Punji stick Area denial Asia era?
Scalder/Scorcher War ? Antiquity(+)
Grappling hook/Grapnel naval warfare High seas era?
Sudis (stake) Field fort Roman era?
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Armor

Gothic plate armour

Anything worn for protection but not considered as typical clothing

Head/face

helms, skullcaps, visors, torques
Helms, masks/head protection Description brief Region of association Era of association
Casque/visored helm General term
Galea Roman term for various styles of helmets Rome Antiquity
Hounskull Type of visored helm Europe Medieval
Kettle hat Bowl shaped wide-brimmed steel helm Europe Medieval(+)
Capeline/lobster pot Archer's skullcap England Medieval
Spangenhelm Conical helmet with cheek-plates Europe Medieval
Morion High crest helm iconic of conquistadors Spain 16th–17th centuries
Pot helmet pot shaped and sometimes crested or plumed . 6th century BC
Coppergate Helmet RELIC Spangenhelm
Sutton Hoo helmet RELIC Viking style helm and faceplate
Nasal helm Skullcap with nose-guard Europe Medieval
Bascinet Helm from occiput protection Europe Medieval
Great helm Helm - bucket Europe Medieval
Visor (armor) hinged faceplate on a helm . Medieval
Shelom High pointed helm Russia Medieval
Kabuto Japanese style helm, iconic of samurai
Menpō Japanese style face mask, iconic of samurai
Corinthian helmet signature ancient Greek style helmet Greek ancient
Horned helmet Viking icon, but probably only ceremonial, however the celts have been recorded to go into battle wearing horned helms and nothing else by Roman scribes
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Torso

shirts
Breast plate/chest protecter Description brief Region of association Era of association
Breastplate Armor that protects vital areas of the chest
Plastron chest armour used in fencing .
Cuirass armor that protects chest and back.
Corslet Clamshell fitted chest protecter . .
Mirror armour Armour made from large rondels linked together china .
Mail/linked-types
Hair-pipe breastplate An apron of large cylindrical beads Native America
Banded mail Mail of contested existence reinforced with leather bands . .
Lorica hamata Type of ringmail Roman
Lorica plumata scales attached to a mail backing Roman
Lorica squamata Type of scale armour Roman
Lamellar armour proto scale armour . .
Fabric armour
Linothorax Armour made of straps sewn together Greek
Splint armour long strips of metal attached onto fabric backing . .
Jack Plates sewn between felt and canvas layers . Medieval
Coat of plates metal plates riveted or sewn to a fabric backing . Medieval
Scale armour Scales sewn onto fabric widespread .
Gambeson Padded armour shirts, 2-ply leather . Medieval
Myunjebaegab First example of bullet-proof armour made of 13 layers of cotton Korea 1871
Flak jacket Metal bars sewn into pockets to protect from low velocity projectiles . World War II
Aketon Padded armour undershirt . Medieval
Tegilay Quilted caftan Asia and East Europe Medieval
plate-types
Lorica segmentata articulated plate bands, iconic Roman armour Roman
Plate armour . . Medieval
Maximilian armour German style plate . early 16th century
Lamellar armour small plates sewn together .
Muscle cuirass Greek or Roman anatomical cuirass Mediterranean Antiquity
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Shoulder and arms

Mantle/concealment Description brief Region of association Era of association
Manica Articulated plate sleeve Roman Antiquity
Surcoat Recognition . Medieval
Mantle mart . .
Chlamys Hunt/War Mediterranean Antiquity
Himation War cloak, the crimson spartan style is iconic Mediterranean
Ailette flat shoulder guards
Bracer Wrist guard, used by archers . Traditional
Brassard Generic term form an arm protector
Kurokote Black gauntlet Japan .
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Waist and Seat

Help to ensure heirs and to attach sidearms

belts and loin cloths.
Girdle/sword tuck Description brief Region of association Era of association
Cingulum militare belt with hanging bronze studded straps to protect the groin area Roman
Girdle Belt not used to hold up cloths often wide and can protect the belly
Cod piece Fashionable armor piece
Pteruges Decorative leather skirt Greek
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Legs

Tasslets/leg guard Description brief Region of association Era of association
Puttee Shin guard of wrapped leather India
Greave Shin guards of strap-on or clamshell design used before the advent of boots. Widespread Ancient
Bases Armour skirts Europe Medieval
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Hands and Feet

protects the tendens that allow movement and gripping
Gauntlet/Boot Description brief Region of association Era of association
Caligae Hobnailed sandal Roman Antiquity
Jika-tabi/split toe shoe Ninja wear Japan Traditional
Gauntlet armoured glove that protects hands and wrist
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Shields

shield/block, deflect, bash Description brief Region of association Era of association
Massai style shield A small padded leather handshield of almond shape centrally mounted to a staff Africa Traditional
Ishlangu Oxhide strapped to a wooden spine used as a shield Zulu/Africa Traditional
Yetholm-type shield Bronze Age shield from northwestern Europe, especially the British Isles Europe 1200–800 BC
Viking-style shield A round and flat shield made of plywood and brightly painted to disguise the grain of the wood.
Scutum A large rectangular and convex shield used by Roman legions Rome Antiquity
Buckler A small hand shield also used as a parry weapon and not good versus projectiles
Targe Term used for shields common to Europe Medieval
Kite shield A large teardrop shaped shield Medieval
Heater shield A medium flat shield with round bottom and flat top when represented in heraldry it is called an escutcheon. Medieval
Rondache Medieval style roundshield Medieval
Aspis/Hoplon Greek word for variety of shields. Its signature style is a bronze clad wood saucer with decorative paint. Mediterranean Ancient
Pavise A large convex shield similar to kiteshield in shape and used by archers as a blind.
parma Roman round shield favored by auxiliaries
Clipeus Greek style roundshield with a central spike Greeks/Romans
Clipeus virtutis A clipeus awarded to Roman soldiers as a medal of honor
Pelta Crescent-shaped wicker shield used by javalin skirmishers Old world before the 3rd century BC
Adarga Two-ply leather shield of antelope hide of various shapes Spanish Moors
Thureos A large oval shield Mediterranean 3rd century BC(+)
Witham Shield RELIC a 4th-century shield excavated in Britain
Battersea Shield RELIC Bronze shield found in the Thames river Britain
Prince Charlie's Targe RELIC one of 13 ornate shields given out as trophies for supporters c. 1745
Riot shield A medium to large shield made of modern plastics to protect police from thrown objects Modern
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Accessories

brooches/clasps/baldrics/banners/trumps

accessory/utility Description brief Region of association
Vervelles metal staples used to attach an aventail to a helm
Boiled leather hardened leather used to fabricate armour
Sarcina Marching pack, Pole and crosspiece used to hold gear Roman
Baldric Shoulder belt worn like a sash ?
Quiver Arrow holder ?
Brooch/Fibula Ornament, Used to fasten a cape's ends together ?
Banner Communication/morale. Romans considered it an ill-omen to lose it. Widespread
Oriflamme War banner France
Crest/plume Ornament/Rank, Horsehair-crest feathers-panache ?
Amentum Leather strap to throw javalin Greece
Argive grip Shield secure, Strap and handle off-center to utilize forearm Greece
Enarmes Shield straps similar to the argive grip
Guige leather strap used to sling a shield about the body
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Armor sets

Full suit/Protection Description brief Region of association Era of association
Bōgu Martial art/kendo suit consisting of pads and a wire mask Japan Traditional
Almain rivet German style suit . 15th-16th centuries
Ō-yoroi Rich mans armour Japan .
Dō-maru Japanese wrap around style suit
Kasten-brust armour German style Holy-Roman empire early 15th century
Munition armour Mass-produced plate armour . 16th century
White armour full body steel plate without a surcoat England 1420(+)
Mongolian armour influenced by Chinese and mideast style . .
Korean armour style and traditions
Panoply Fullset of ancient Greek armour
Dendra armour RELICsurviving suite of mycenaean armour . 15th century BC
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Terminology

  • Sword
    • saif- a sword
    • Daito-Japanese for longsword
    • Dao- Chinese for a sabre
    • Jian- Chinese for a straightsword
    • Ken- Japanese for a straightsword
    • Golok (a catch-all for several types of sword and knife)
  • Blade
    • serrated blade
    • ricasso- Dull edge, blade section
    • Forte- Strong blade section
    • Foible- Weak blade section
    • Fuller - blood groove, reduce weight
    • Fluke- spike/pick mounted on back of an axehead
    • Peen - hammer head
  • Hilt- sword handle
    • quillon-cross guard
    • Tsuba- plate style guard
    • Habaki-Japan style rain guard
  • Scabbard-Sheath, sword case
    • Shirasaya -Japan name
  • Etching
  • Equipment style
    • Daisho-samurai, long & short
    • Jintachi- Mounting

List of martial art/styles

weapon play

  • List of martial arts
    • Academic fencing
  • List of Roman gladiator types

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