Introduction: A staff weapon of exceptional workmanship. Hammer forged from one piece of metal! It retains a working life haft. Because of its unique construction and design there is some uncertainty as to the exact intended purpose of this exotic-multi purpose weapon of war.

Discussion:  The staff weapon was an essential weapon of the Middle Ages for multiple reasons: 1) When properly used and deployed, staff weapons have a significant advantage related directly to their length. The pole of a staff weapon can range from 5 feet in length to as much as 16 feet in length. The staff weapon enables the user to be out of the reach of many shorter weapons, such as swords. This reach advantage allows the man-at-arms to effectively attack without needing to defend himself from attacks. 2) Staff weapons, like pikes, could be used to stop the cavalry charge, which was one of the most devastating strategies of the Medieval and Renaissance periods. 3) Since much of the staff weapon was made from wood, they were inexpensive and easy to manufacture, making them a practical choice to arm many men quickly at a low cost. In addition, if the pole broke, the head could be reused on a new wooden pole. Because the design of the head was relatively simple, they could be made by a village blacksmith. 4) Staff weapons are easy to use, requiring relatively little training to become competent in their use. 5) Staff weapons could be multipurpose weapons. For example, a halberd is an axe with a spear and fluke to dismount a knight from his horse. 6) Staff weapons require the use of multiple large muscles; therefore, the body fatigues more slowly than with some other weapons. Less fatigue in battle provides a substantial advantage during a pitched battle that could last days. 7) Since staff weapons are long and provide leverage, they generate high-impact, deep penetrating strikes. 8) Some staff weapons were actually farming implements available for immediate use by an owner familiar with their use. 9) Because of staff weapons’ similarities, military formations with large numbers were easy to coordinate, thus maximizing the army’s effectiveness.