Types of Medieval Swords | Features & Historical Uses

Medieval swords came in different shapes, sizes, and designs. Some were made for one-handed use, while others were designed to be held with both hands. Each type had unique features that suited different fighting styles and purposes.

The main types of medieval swords include arming swords, longswords, bastard swords, greatswords, claymores, and falchions. Each had distinctive features that made it suitable for different fighting styles and historical settings. Understanding these differences also helps collectors appreciate the craftsmanship behind medieval swords.

1. Medieval Arming Sword

The arming sword was a common weapon during the Middle Ages, particularly among knights and other armed warriors. It was designed for one-handed use and could be carried alongside a shield. Collectors interested in knight-inspired designs can explore this Medieval Templar Knight Crusader Sword.

Features

• Single-handed grip: Allows the user to hold a shield in the other hand.

• Straight blade: Usually double-edged, with a pointed tip.

• Crossguard: Helps protect the hand from an opponent's blade.

Historical Uses

Arming swords were used for both cutting and thrusting. Their manageable size made them practical sidearms for close combat. Their exact designs changed over time as armor and fighting techniques developed.

2. Medieval Longsword

The longsword became especially prominent during the later Middle Ages. Unlike a typical one-handed arming sword, it had an extended grip that allowed the user to hold it with both hands.

Features

• Two-handed grip: Offers control and leverage.

• Long, double-edged blade: Suitable for cutting and thrusting.

• Extended handle: Allows different hand positions during use.

Historical Uses

Longswords were versatile weapons used by trained fighters, including knights. Their pointed blades could be useful against armored opponents, while their edges allowed cutting attacks. Some longswords were designed specifically to improve thrusting against gaps in plate armor.

3. Bastard Sword

The bastard sword, commonly called a hand-and-a-half sword, sits between traditional one-handed and two-handed sword designs. Its longer grip provides flexibility in how it can be handled.

Features

• Extended grip: Can accommodate one or two hands, depending on the design.

• Double-edged blade: Supports both cutting and thrusting.

• Versatile construction: Combines a relatively long blade with a manageable grip.

Historical Uses

Bastard swords were used in Europe during the late medieval period. The term overlaps with historical longsword terminology, so these categories are not always completely separate. Their extended grips allowed fighters to adjust their handling according to the situation.

4. Medieval Greatsword

Greatsword is a broad term often used for large swords designed for two-handed use. Some examples belong to the late medieval period, while other famous oversized swords date to the Renaissance.

Features

• Two-handed grip: Provides room for both hands.

• Long blade: Gives the weapon greater reach than many one-handed swords.

• Strong construction: Designed to balance the blade's size with effective handling.

Historical Uses

Large two-handed swords were used by trained fighters for cutting and thrusting. However, they were not simply heavy weapons that relied on brute force. Historical examples were carefully designed and balanced. Their dimensions and uses varied across periods.

5. Claymore

The claymore is strongly associated with Scotland and its Highland fighting traditions. The classic two-handed claymore became prominent around the sixteenth century, although the name is also used for a later Scottish basket-hilted sword.

Features

• Two-handed grip: Provides control over the long blade.

• Distinctive guard: The classic form has crossguard arms angled toward the blade.

• Scottish heritage: Closely connected with Highland warriors.

Historical Uses

The two-handed claymore was used in Scotland and by Scottish mercenaries in Ireland. It was a cutting sword with a distinctive appearance. Although often included in lists of medieval swords, its best-known historical form belongs mainly to the early modern period.

6. Falchion

The falchion stands out because of its broad, usually single-edged blade. Some examples have a relatively straight back, while others feature a more curved cutting edge.

Features

• Single-edged blade: Designed primarily for cutting.

• Broad blade shape: Gives the weapon a distinctive appearance.

• One-handed grip: Makes it suitable for use as a sidearm.

Historical Uses

Falchions appeared in Europe by the thirteenth century and were used in different forms during the later Middle Ages. They were associated with cutting attacks and could serve as sidearms for infantry and cavalry. Despite their broad blades, surviving examples show that falchions varied considerably in shape and craftsmanship.

Medieval Sword Types Comparison Table

The following table highlights the main differences between these sword types.

These descriptions are general guides. Historical sword designs varied by region, period, and intended use.

Find Your Favorite Medieval Sword Replica

If you enjoy learning about historical swords, collectible replicas offer another way to appreciate distinctive blade shapes and weapon designs. Collectible Blades features sword replicas inspired by fantasy worlds, games, and other popular designs.

Explore Collectible Blades to discover sword collectibles. Before purchasing, review the product specifications, intended use, shipping information, and applicable local regulations. Fantasy replicas are modern collectibles, not original medieval artifacts.

Conclusion

Medieval swords came in many forms, each with distinctive features and historical uses. Arming swords offered one-handed handling, longswords provided two-handed versatility, and falchions stood out for their broad cutting blades. The claymore and greatsword also show how sword designs varied across regions and periods. 

Learning about these differences helps history enthusiasts understand medieval craftsmanship and gives collectors a better appreciation of sword designs. If you want to explore modern interpretations, browse the sword replicas available at Collectible Blades. 

FAQs

What were the main types of medieval swords?

Common types included arming swords, longswords, bastard swords, greatswords, and falchions.

What was the most common medieval sword?

The arming sword was a common medieval weapon, often used by knights with a shield.

What is the difference between an arming sword and a longsword?

An arming sword was generally designed for one-handed use, while a longsword had a longer grip for two-handed use.

How heavy were medieval swords?

Many one-handed medieval swords weighed around 1 to 1.5 kg, although weight varied by design and period.

Were medieval swords used for cutting or thrusting?

Many medieval swords were designed for both cutting and thrusting, depending on their blade shape and intended use.