Warhammer

War hammer - a powerful weapon against plate armour

In the late 13th century, the sword was the dominant weapon of knights and men-at-arms. However, with the advent of plate armour, the sword increasingly lost its penetrating power as it was not suitable for penetrating this new type of protective clothing. This is where the warhammer came into play - a weapon specially developed for fighting heavily armoured opponents.

The warhammer was an extremely effective response to the plate armour of the time. With its heavy hammer head, it could massively dent armour and helmets and break even the strongest armour in just a few blows. The striking spike, which was attached to many war hammers, acted like a modern can opener to open the armour and injure the opponent. During battle, the hammer head was primarily used to throw the opponent to the ground and incapacitate him. Once the enemy was down, the hammer was turned round and the spike was used to penetrate the helmet and defeat the opponent with a decisive blow.

The modern war hammer from Cold Steel® is a precise replica of this historical tool and is already very popular with HEMA martial artists and re-enactors. Particularly noteworthy is the manoeuvrability of this weapon, which can be wielded excellently with one or both hands. The hammer head is drop-forged from high-quality 1055 carbon steel and differentially hardened. This means that the tip of the hammer spike and the striking surface of the hammer are completely hardened in order to strike through particularly resistant materials, while the rest of the head is softer in order to better absorb the forces that occur when striking. The straight-fibre American hickoryhandle ensures excellent balance and durability. In addition, the approx. 76.2 cm long handle is equipped with two robust steel shaft springs that provide additional support.

Details of the Cold Steel® war hammer:

• Hammer head material: 1055 carbon steel, drop-forged and differentially hardened

• Handle material: Straight-fibre hickory wood, reinforced with steel shaft springs

• Overall length: approx. 76.2 cm

• Head width: approx. 18.7 cm

• Striking surface of the hammer: approx. 3.8 cm x 3.8 cm

• Weight: approx. 1000 g

• Item number Cold Steel®: 90WHA

The war hammer is not only ideal for historical re-enactments and combat training, but also as a collector's item for weapon enthusiasts and historians. This replica is perfect for anyone who wants to experience and authentically recreate the weaponry culture of the Middle Ages.

Additional information:

The war hammer is a product with sharp edges. Improper or careless use can lead to injuries. Please always handle this weapon with care and caution.

Important note on sale:

This item is only sold to persons over the age of 18. Please state your date of birth when ordering and send us a copy of a valid ID document (e.g. identity card or driving licence) by e-mail, scan, fax or post.