Gothic German War Hammer - Functional
This Gothic war hammer is based upon medieval / renaissance examples from the very late 15th century and 16th century.
Similar style hammers can be seen in the national Museums of Scotland (museum reference K.2020.17.10), the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Accession Number: 29.158.674) and the Livrustkammaren Royal armory museum Stockholm Sweden (Inventory Number 16217 (25: 127) original artifact shown in last photo.
Similar to the knight's pole axe but scaled down for one-handed use, this style of hammer developed to combat the increasing use of plate armour on the battlefield.
The shorter handle enabled the strike to be delivered with high concussive force while still retaining control of the weapon. Which was particularly effective against a heavily armed opponent’s helmet.
The beak spike or bec-de-corbin on the back served to balance the weapon and was adept at striking and penetrating between plate armour.
The two steel rondel disks on the handle protect the hand and provided additional grip
The leather wrapped handle is large enough to accommodate a gauntlet.
Made from high carbon EN45 with a wrapped leather handle. This functional hammer is not suitable for reenactment combat due to the sharp points.
Made from EN45 high carbon steel.
The hammer measures:
Round hammer face diameter 4.2cm
Total length 52cm
Width of head 16cm
Handle internal width 12cm
Handle thickness 3cm
Rondel disk diameter 6cm
Rondel disk thickness 5mm
Total weight 1200 grams
