The poleaxe was a formidable weapon used primarily during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance by knights and foot soldiers alike. Known for its powerful striking capability, this weapon combined the functions of an axe, hammer, and spear. When people ask how heavy a poleaxe is, they’re often surprised to learn that it was designed for both efficiency and endurance, not just brute force. To understand its weight, we need to explore its construction, purpose, and historical variations.
Understanding the Structure of a Poleaxe
Components of a Poleaxe
The poleaxe was not a single-bladed weapon like a regular axe. Instead, it featured multiple striking surfaces and was carefully engineered to deliver force while remaining maneuverable. A typical poleaxe had the following parts:
- Axe blade used for chopping and cleaving through armor
- Hammer or spike on the reverse effective against plate armor and helmets
- Top spike for thrusting, similar to a spear
- Langets metal strips reinforcing the wooden haft
- Haft (handle) usually made of hardwood, typically oak or ash
This multi-purpose configuration meant the weapon was relatively complex, which influenced its total weight and balance.
Average Weight of a Poleaxe
Typical Historical Measurements
The average weight of a poleaxe ranged between4 to 8 pounds (1.8 to 3.6 kilograms). Most surviving historical examples tend to fall on the lighter end of this spectrum around 5 to 6 pounds because a heavier weapon would quickly tire its wielder in prolonged combat.
The poleaxe’s length was generally between 4.5 and 6 feet (1.3 to 1.8 meters), providing reach while maintaining balance. Despite the size, the use of lightweight hardwood and carefully crafted steel components helped keep the overall mass manageable.
Comparing with Other Medieval Weapons
To provide context, here’s how the poleaxe compares in weight with similar medieval polearms:
- Halberd: 5 to 8 pounds
- Bec de Corbin: 4 to 6 pounds
- Spear: 2 to 4 pounds
- Warhammer: 2.5 to 5 pounds
The poleaxe sits comfortably in the middle range, offering both versatility and stopping power. It was not the heaviest weapon on the battlefield, but one of the most effective in armored combat.
Why the Poleaxe Was Not Too Heavy
Combat Practicality
Contrary to popular belief, medieval weapons were not excessively heavy. The myth of a 15-pound sword or a 20-pound axe simply doesn’t hold up. Warriors had to fight for extended periods and needed weapons they could wield quickly and accurately. A poleaxe had to be light enough for quick changes in grip, stance, and attack direction.
Balance and Ergonomics
Most poleaxes were well-balanced around the upper third of the shaft. This balance point allowed for better control when swinging or thrusting. The inclusion of langets also prevented the shaft from breaking upon heavy impact, adding durability without much weight.
Variations in Weight Based on Design
Battlefield vs. Tournament Poleaxes
Not all poleaxes were created equal. For example:
- Battlefield poleaxeswere lighter and more streamlined for mobility.
- Tournament poleaxesused in judicial duels were often heavier and more ornate, sometimes approaching 7 to 8 pounds.
The purpose of the weapon influenced its weight. Those used for training might be weighted differently to condition the fighter’s strength, while ceremonial weapons could be heavier due to decorative elements.
Material Differences
The choice of materials also affected the total weight. Steel quality, wood density, and added reinforcements could all cause slight variations. Some custom poleaxes had counterweights to improve handling, while others might include thicker axe heads for specific forms of armor penetration.
Modern Reconstructions and Tests
Historical Reenactment Data
Today, historical reenactors and martial artists often use replica poleaxes made to museum specifications. These replicas are based on actual weapons housed in institutions like the Royal Armouries in the UK. Most replicas fall in the 5 to 6.5 pound range, mirroring the balance and weight of historical examples.
These tests have proven that poleaxes were light enough to allow controlled sparring, quick footwork, and safe armored combat when wielded by trained individuals.
Experimental Archaeology
Some researchers have taken the analysis further by engaging in experimental archaeology. This involves reconstructing medieval weapons and armor using traditional techniques. These projects have consistently confirmed that the weight of a functional poleaxe rarely exceeds 7 pounds.
How Weight Affected Combat Use
Techniques in Poleaxe Combat
The poleaxe was used in a range of martial styles, especially in armored combat. Manuals from the 15th and 16th centuries describe moves such as:
- Thrusting with the top spike
- Hooking behind an opponent’s leg or neck
- Hammering at joints or gaps in armor
- Tripping, wrestling, and grappling with the weapon
All of these techniques relied on the poleaxe being maneuverable not excessively heavy. A well-balanced weapon allowed for a mix of striking, blocking, and control, critical in close combat scenarios.
So, how heavy is a poleaxe? On average, it weighed between 4 and 6 pounds, with slight variations depending on the design and purpose. This weight was a deliberate choice, ensuring that the weapon could be used efficiently in both battlefield and judicial combat. Far from being clumsy or overly massive, the poleaxe was a precise tool of war designed for effectiveness against armored foes. Understanding its weight and construction deepens appreciation for the skill and strategy of medieval warfare. Whether studied for historical curiosity or martial practice, the poleaxe remains one of the most impressive and versatile weapons of the medieval period.