Spear & Shield vs Dane Axe

To watch the complete video, go here: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page...
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[@swordandshield]

To watch the complete video, go here: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page/e291efd8de Read about the historical size of the Dane axe here: sagy.vikingove.cz/en/two-handed-axes/ Learn about the approach to Dane axe fighting in this conference demo at the Danish National Museum: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page/68ce4e381d

[@charlesparr1611]

More than anything,I think this showcased some excellent shield work. And that I would not want to be a single axe man trying to fight a spearman. Good way to find yourself full of small holes and slowly bleeding out knowing even if you win you're dead of sepsis by next week...

[@swordandshield]

@@charlesparr1611 Thanks for the kind reception. Yes, the preferred combat context of the Dane Axe would have been a different one.

[@nowthenzen]

and always that chuckle when a touch is landed of "I didn't die, because we are just pretending."

[@swordandshield]

@@nowthenzen in fact, that is only part of it. It is more about acknowledging the other one's skill.

[@nowthenzen]

@@swordandshield The not dying bit is what keeps it fun otherwise these videos would be pretty grim

[@AfaqueAhmed_]

The spear is really overpowered , cheap , easy to use and long reach . No wonder it stayed in the battlefield for so long .

[@Gillymonster18]

Yeah…then again, neither is able to apply full force like they’re trying to kill the other. I have a suspicion the effectiveness of the axe would be a lot better when it’s wielder is actually able to apply force and do things like bat the end of the spear away.

[@osborne9255]

@@Gillymonster18 Totally!

[@AfaqueAhmed_]

@@Gillymonster18 Yeah , but they spear could be wielded a lot faster and aggressively as well .

[@KyranFindlater]

@@Gillymonster18 batting away a spear head with an axe head, you'd still be far away from the wielder of the spear, and the spear head is very light and either would be moved away from the batting and stab the axe wielder's unprotected body/arms, or the spear would be quickly brought back on centre to impale the axe guy as he moves forward for the attack after batting the spear away. The only way I can see the axe guy getting a hit is if the spear guy makes a mistake on an overly ambitious thrust and bad positioning/off balance.

[@i_love_crpg]

@@Gillymonster18 weapons in themselves are force multipliers and the dane axe especially does not need additional "force". Whilst they did have to be a lot more careful here, there are numerous tests done in both 1v1 and skirmishes involving spears and the spears win easily. people seem to forget that men holding spears arent idiots who will just bend over for their opponents.

[@andrewsmith9174]

The axe is sexy and super dangerous. The sword is the popular status symbol of elites. But the spear is the king of the battlefield.

[@MicroBalrog]

the spear only becomes useful once you have formation-capable trained infantry (i.e. the ability to organize your peasant levies enoguh to get them to train for several months, which was non-trivial in the early middle ages).

[@Pilafcg]

​@@MicroBalrog um... No

[@Ascaron1337]

​@@MicroBalrog It always amazes me, how someone can watch the very thing they deny afterwards with a snarky comment.

[@MicroBalrog]

@@Pilafcg by useful I mean in the sense inwhich fanboys imagine 'oh spear guys will almost always beat sword guys', this is only true in certain context

[@Pilafcg]

@@MicroBalrog yup, and that context is called practice

[@BallisticPlate]

Your guys seem to be well disciplined and low ego. Appreciate that. Great stuff to see.

[@swordandshield]

This is indeed a pre-requisite for playing this game safely and constructively.

[@tu-estupidez9713]

NEEDED WHEN GOING WITH METAL VS BARE SKIN WITH FRIENDS LMAO caps*

[@johntheknight3062]

Agreed, it is very nice to see people actually practicing martial prowess instead of just randomly bashing each other full force like bunch of apes. I saw it just too many times for it to be funny.

[@swordandshield]

@@johntheknight3062 thanks for your appreciation.

[@TheVeryLastHippy]

As a reenactor myself I can confirm, every bout must end in a hug.

[@swordandshield]

So true.

[@johntheknight3062]

The experience is very visible. No ego, no personal revenge, just pure matial art prowess. It's nice to see how well you are able to use the spear and shield and create distance.

[@jasonjames9836]

I love the control that everyone exhibits to provide for the safety of their training partners. I would love to see this type of freeplay contrasted with footage of similar freeplay but with the participants wearing protective gear to allow a higher level of speed and strength. I originally wanted to say intensity, but I do think there is a great deal of intensity in the deliberateness and control that the participants in this video are using.

[@swordandshield]

Personally, I find geared up sparring inhibiting in other ways, and a lot less appealing to watch. That is why I do not post it very often, although we do train it. You might find some material in older Berlin Buckler Bouts videos if you bother to look. I think that protected sparring is generally over-rated in terms of research into historical combat. It is distorted in other ways, most notably in regard to risk assessment. With heavy protection, most people take many more risks that they would never take without protection and with sharp weapons. That is part of the reason why most geared up HEMA hardly resembles what is seen in the fight books. Also, speed is usually not considerably higher with protection when economy of movement and precision are qualities that you aim for, in contrast to charging in. The latter is the mark of most sports matches, the former is for martial arts practice, in my opinion. All fine, you just have to be aware of the limitations of a chosen combat simulation.

[@stormrhode2330]

​@@swordandshield I totally agree, but there are definitely pros and cons to each. An interesting part of this video was at 2:05, Alfred definitely landed that thrust with his spear, but pulled back so as to not hit Christian. In turn, Christian didn't feel it and didn't seem to realize he would have been hit. Most likely with gear he would have felt the attack land and acknowledged it. This in itself is both a pro and a con, since in actual martial combat, sometimes a blow like that might immediately put someone down and other times it wouldn't. Basically, the protective gear vs none / historical garb is a deep, nuanced one and I agree it's good to do both.

[@swordandshield]

​@@stormrhode2330 Exactly. It is absolutely true that each form of martial arts training creates artefacts. Only when you use different training modes and various levels of protection, plus sharp weapons practice, you can become aware of each mode's shortcomings. Lacking expert tuition by living veterans, that is the best we can do.😃

[@Lurklen]

@@swordandshield I suppose this, or something very like it, must have been how they practiced back then, as they didn't have modern safety gear, haha. Would at least head gear not be beneficial? I feel like some kind of head covering would mean those strikes could land, which would be instructive even if they were still pulled back somewhat, and that would read more clearly than some of the (very skillful and deft, but still quite risky) feints that suffice instead of a strike to the face or head. Given the care you are all displaying, I worry less about injuries to the body, but it seems like the head is still at risk, and also (understandably) where people try to strike the most. Perhaps it is just my nerves, but I wince every time that spear thrusts up towards the head, feels like an accident waiting to happen. Then again, you're all grown ups and know what you're doing, so I'm sure you've weighed the pros and cons.

[@swordandshield]

@@Lurklen true. And as I said before, we do use full protection in our standard training too. However, putting on modern facemasks in this museum context would look silly. Putting on period head protection like an iron helmet (which one of us actually did) only means that a hit does not have the same effect - the whole point of protection. And it is my observation that people tend to become less precise the more protection is worn. This is why we NEVER wear any protection when practicing with sharps. But you are right: None of us recommends doing this without appropriate training and an according mindset. But that should be self-evident.

[@salimufari]

I can appreciate how these fellows are sparing in period clothes. Not massive HEMA padding & just from experience know when a hit is made or not. That is where the real skill is here I believe.

[@swordandshield]

Plus, no fencing masks back then either. Of course I see the merits of modern protection, and all of these guys use it in their regular training too. But weapon practice in historical kit in this kind of environment is what I enjoy most. By far.

[@fablerh2476]

I wonder if back then they would have in fact used protective equipment to practice with semi full force. I could imagine that you wouldn’t want to go to war without having experienced how a hit would feel both at the giving and receiving end. But nonetheless very interesting, especially because of authentic clothing.

[@joshbryan8028]

Its crazy how op the pointy stick really is

[@dviper2093]

great example of how simply grabbing or hooking the spear is way harder than people make it seem. Much more difficult when the other figher has a vote in what's going on.

[@ElkaPME]

The problem with that logic is that the other guy is using a 2 handed weapon, _not_ a single handed one and he's also not using a shield. Melee combat requires a boatload of contexts to determine a given situation.

[@RolloTheWalker2]

Finally some sparring with dane axes of accurate lengths.

[@swordandshield]

Indeed.

[@Velesus101]

Very interesting. Especially the moments Christian uses the axe with the handle forward to deflect the incoming thrusts. Very reminiscent of poleaxe techniques. Is there a reason why both spearmen choose the overhand grip? Also, big respect for going the extra mile and doing it with period weapons and clothing, without any modern protection. I can only admire the level of weapon control I do not possess.

[@swordandshield]

Thanks for your kind words, much appreciated. Regarding gripping the Dane axe: Emil explained their approach at a conference at the Danish National Museum. A video of their complete demo and discussion can be accessed here: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page/68ce4e381d

[@Velesus101]

@@swordandshield Oh, I am definitely going to check it out. Thanks!

[@victorkreig6089]

Wonderful as always Roland

[@swordandshield]

Glad you like it.

[@michaeldrinkard678]

This is so entertaining and educational! You can tell that these people have trained extensively, and know what they are doing. Thanks for sharing!

[@swordandshield]

Thank you. This is exactly my sentiment too when I watch my friends here, and I am happy I am not the only one!

[@MrAmericanaSam]

The throat singing is an unexpected touch, but makes a nice complement to the action.

[@swordandshield]

The reason why I decided to use shamanic chants in this video is because Neil Price, in his ground-breaking work "The Viking Way", has convincingly pointed out the strong influences of shamanic rituals on Viking Age Scandinavian beliefs. So the choice of soundtrack here is based on what I consider appropriate in light of academic research. If you enjoyed, the better.

[@anderseckstrand7033]

I really appreciate this live demonstration! Thank you gentlemen.

[@ButlerianG-Haddinun]

"are ya down? = "how ya doing... that's me "how ya doing, boincy?"

[@theblueflame2221]

1:02 Hah an audience once gave me crap for doing that during an event against a horse rider wondering why I didn't hold my hand axe 'correctly'. I never understood why people bothered with swords when you can have an axe instead. Fun demonstration you folks!

[@tatumergo3931]

The majority of the populace just wants to be entertained, not educated. It's all about the spectacle and the drama, not the crude reality of life. You often see that type of situation with the more lesser known Japanese Ryu-has, when they demonstrate weird or different methods of swordsmanship. Then you have to go into an lengthy explanation of why it is done as such.

[@catchthedream1142]

Always love your videos

[@swordandshield]

Happy you enjoy them.

[@Just_a_Danish_viking]

Love seeing some dane axe sparring. Would be great to se more dane axe!

[@rochrich1223]

You don't tend to think of the axe as a stabbing weapon, but sometimes...

[@oneukum]

Sure, but at that point, shouldn't you have carried a spear in the first place?

[@csch1510]

That's exactly why som axes have a pumel or tip at the lower end

[@iticotaco5603]

Not every attack needs to be done with an optimized tool for that motion. It makes you horrendously predictable. Thrust with the axe head is a staple of the axe moveset, it does plenty of damage without having a spike/spear tip, just a pure crushing jab​. Same with hits using the back of the axehead despite the weapon not being optimized for that with a hammer or backspike, but it's a very common dane axe attack anyways @@oneukum

[@khoaphqwerty8034]

amazing background elements that immerse the friendly fight

[@swordandshield]

Nothing compares to training with friends in reconstrcucted gear in an appropriate venue.

[@branch42]

The axe Has to be very agressive, his defence being putting his opponent completely on the defensive. These guys have fantastic control to not maim eachother.

[@VvVv-mo5un]

Ты не сможешь махать двумя-тремя килограммами долго. А копьём можно долго колоть :)

[@aidanhendricksen4832]

Great video, loved it

[@Doradanis1]

This video makes me so damn anxious..... xD But great work guys!

[@vishmonster]

Really spectacular stuff!

[@swordandshield]

Thank you.

[@ObjectiveMedia]

Is eye protection not necessary? Wouldn’t fancy that spear point coming at my eyes like that with me potentially moving towards it too, even with it being just a blunt training tip.

[@runehansen4417]

Loved to see it :) I cant wait to join Ullrs Hird next year

[@joshbryan8028]

The spear was literally the original weapon and is still fielded by militaries across the world in the form of bayonets affixed to small arms. It's a weapon system with a 400k year service history. Thats wild

[@richstone2627]

Thank you for sharing.

[@atune2682]

Second that +1

[@swordandshield]

Thank you for the kind reception, guys.

[@waderich9904]

Spear and shield looks like such a great combo. Simplicity effective

[@Aurichalcam]

This looks like a lot of fun

[@topazserpent3775]

Yo the battle brothers gameplay is looking great! 😂

[@rabidspatula1013]

Makes you wonder if the origins of Dane axe fighting developed from combat in a more confined space like a ship vs ship battlw. There the range was already cut down and spearmen could not manuever as much. And it goes without saying that armor would certainly increase the survivability of the Dane axe fighter to close. As well as teamwork, say a Dane axe fighter with comrade using a shield to actively control enemy spears.

[@swordandshield]

Yes indeed. From what we can tell, two-handed axes were used by heavily armoured special forces.

[@user-yy5xs6xj7r]

I've recently read a late (13th century, if I remember correctly) Norvegian source, where spears and swords are recomended as the main and secondary weapon for a field battle, but axes are included in a list of weapons useful in naval battles. So I think that your idea of Dane axes developing as a weapon for naval combat is pretty reasonable.

[@MyCommentsRMaturelol]

Yes, yes, but what of pointy stick versus roundboi?

[@Corvusdotensis]

It's good to know that in Denmark there are still people who preserve ancient traditions, instead of certain mistakes of post-modern society. Please keep posting!

[@tatumergo3931]

Yes agree, people should preserve their culture, heritage and history!

[@hav9561]

Fedt at se! Får mig til at tænke på om træning i gamle dage så sådan ud, nok ikke med så meget latter!

[@swordandshield]

I think that more modern practitioners should devote more time and energy on figuring out what historical training might have looked like, instead of putting on excessive amounts of modern protection to create questionable forms of combat simulation. Anyway, one 13th century combat training advice is to not "drink until you get merry" - which to me suggests that they did have fun at training at times.

[@LazaroTalaya]

Where do you buy these axes for combat? Thanks sir. Beautiful video.

[@swordandshield]

I actually do not know where the fighters in the video got their axes from. Thor's Forge by Tord Bergelin is known for making great Dane axes. I am sure you can track him down.

[@aegirkarl1411]

Have you tested the right underhand grip in a close formation? I wonder if the axe would not be in a natural defence position at rest and it would be more difficult for the spearman to defend against the axe pushed towards the hand or face without room to manoeuvre?

[@swordandshield]

There are so many aspects and variables in such a scenario that are impossible to address in a comment section. But measure is indeed key, as always. And the fact remains that the party with shorter weapons first has to get past spear points before they can do damage. Never an easy task, in particular when spears can come from multiple angles.

[@hafniaanonymous7605]

Good and serious training... fun times 😀

[@swordandshield]

Absolutely.

[@gotfrydzbouillon4191]

True is that the opponent with spear and shield 90% time win with Daneaxer.

[@Nitram7482]

That is because the dane axe, similar to the montante, spadone and other two handed cutting weapons was used to break formations in group combat, applying great force against unaware enemies (Which are focused on your companions) to kill them in one blow and open a gap in their formation. But struggles a lot in individual combat

[@gotfrydzbouillon4191]

​@@Nitram7482 I know for what Daneaxe is i use it myself :D

[@utub1970]

that's bloody fun that is

[@swordandshield]

Yup.

[@Denbot7]

Great sparring. Given the simple effectiveness of the spear and shield, what do you think the role of the Dane axe was on the battlefield? It looks to me like one would have to be very aggressive at their own peril to be effective with the axe.

[@swordandshield]

From what we can tell, two-handed axes were used by heavily armoured special forces, such as the Varangian guard, or the Huscarls. The latter are shown in action on the Bayeux Tapestry. I am not aware of any detailed sources. But you can find a video with an introduction to the research approach and a demo given at a conference at the Danish National Museum here: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page/68ce4e381d

[@davidschlageter5962]

Scary without eye pro!! :O

[@swordandshield]

Indeed. On the other hand, practitioners tend to become less precise the more protection is worn. Anyway, in this museum display context, the gear is confined to period kit. So without appropriate skill and mindset it would definitely be better to refrain from it.

[@ydkaachillesa9353]

Basically confirms what we know: in 1on1 spearman is usually dominating as long as he have space to move around and keep distance. Formation would probably be different.

[@swordandshield]

I agree. The only flaw with blunt weapon testing is that a sharp edge has significantly more potential to dominate a wooden shaft. In this respect, all blunte weapon fencing distorts the reality of historical combat. Here is a comparison of how a sharp edge fares as opposed to a blunt: kzbin.info/www/bejne/apKcfXhng8iSnc0 Here is a video which shows how many axe blows a spear shaft might cope with before snapping: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGeqaKOVpdWhrqMsi=5oT3KmcAQCu4Zw2c

[@ydkaachillesa9353]

@@swordandshield Interesting. However I think major obstacle in reconstuction of basically any form of close combat is still human psychology. The level of fear and excitement combatants with sharp weapons must endured must have had massive influence over how this combat worked. Sharp pointy stick 20 cm from ones face is something entirely different when wielded by your sparring friend and actual enemy. Probably spear just because of its length had additional advantage in this respect (?), while those big axes were very specialized weapons demanding guts and good armour. The axed combatant here, without any helmet and face protection, would most probably be dispatched quite easily in real fight.

[@Alberad08]

Pretty amazing to watch. This must require an extreme degree of motion controll for not to injure or kill your partners - even if the weapons here got blunted.

[@swordandshield]

We do train a lot, and the mindset is important too. Thanks for the appreciation.

[@valklattmisstag]

1:25 What a move!

[@Wraithninja1]

I wonder if wielding the axe more like a guan dao would work better.

[@swordandshield]

Regarding gripping the Dane axe: Emil explained their approach at a conference at the Danish National Museum. A video of their complete demo and discussion can be accessed here: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page/68ce4e381d

[@Davlavi]

Nice sparing section.

[@jurtheorc8117]

Axe? Axe! AAAAAAAAXE! Love me some axe being used with finesse.

[@VuurBarbaar]

HAMMEEEERRR....oh f wrong place

[@jurtheorc8117]

@@VuurBarbaar A Dutch fire barbarian? Here? AT THE OTHER SIDE OF MY COMPUTER? Het is waarschijnlijker dan je denkt.

[@LordVictorHalgaard]

The axe looks very short to me - but good fighting!

[@swordandshield]

Thanks. Axe length is historically accurate, based on period depictions and surviving examples: sagy.vikingove.cz/en/two-handed-axes/

[@bretalvarez3097]

Very nice, I imagine in such a dueling scenario the spear user could have a better advantage in an overhand grip.

[@swordandshield]

Mikkel does indeed change into this grip a couple of times. We believe that delivering a slide-thrust from there is indeed the most powerful and dangerous attack which is why it is seen in historical sources since antiquity and well into the late Middle Ages. However, it is also the most difficult to do in a safe manner. So this is the main reason why we find it difficult to apply in this kind of practice.

[@thundershirt1]

I would think that a quick, one hand spear jab would barely effect an opponent in mail.

[@kirbyhh1392]

I would think that a quick, one hand spear jab would barely effect an opponent in mail. ++++ Well, a spearhead is at least as narrow as the tip of a sword. So a quick 1h jab with a spear has at least the same penetration as an equally quick stab with a sword. A 2h spear thrust does have significantly more penetration than a "2h" sword thrust. And the video shows, that you can VERY quickly switch from attacking the feet to attacking the head. The spear has only one significant disadvantage: You might be able to bypass its range. But that seems to be harder than one might think.

[@austincann4772]

The spear man often retreats when pressed, but what if this were not possible if he were in a shield wall formation?

[@Torque2100]

In shield wall the technique changes. You rely on your allies to cover you and you cover them in turn.

[@MrOhitsujiza]

There would be like 3-5 spear tips(at least) to get past then which would not make it feasible to go in like that.

[@peterheinrichs7634]

Shield walls are a completely different talk! ;o) But, there's way more content about shield walls at YT than about single fighting. Free free to go and have a months long rabbit hole (at least)!

[@TheSquidPro]

The man behind him spears you overhead.

[@peterheinrichs7634]

@@TheSquidPro Years ago when they allowed dane axes at Neustadt Glewe field battle, they said: long axes changed the battlefield dramastically. You cann't allow yourself to defend you're neighbors as much as before, 'cause you have to defend your own front and top now with way more awareness. That said, I guess: dane axe works better in a shield wall. Synergy effects benefit long axe fighters.

[@Beuwen_The_Dragon]

Amazing to think that the Spear has really only ceased to be used in the last one hundred/one hundred fifty years…

[@041mikey]

You can make an argument that bayonets are a continuation of the spear

[@jancello]

This is a great display of skill, however I have two questions about the choice of weapons and technique: - why are the spears only handled in an underhand grip, when nearly all sources (admittedly we have few for that time period) point toward the use of an overhand grip? - you're clearly sparring in a "duelling" context, but do we have any evidence of these weapons being used in single combat (or in very small skirmishes)? The spear with shield is common yes, but the axe seems to be very much a battlefield weapon... unless we take into account the possibility that the icelandic "bryntröll" is a dane-axe, in which case this is a number of skirmishes/ambushes where it is used.

[@hafniaanonymous7605]

Well for one its a training setting, and ment to be that... also broad axes are shown in civilian contekst on the tapestry.. and in some sence being a "professionals" weapon there is probably also use outside of battlefield.. some mentions in medieval texts and sagas... but again its written in the 1200's... However it is definately a disadvantage going one on one against spear and shield with a broadaxe 😆 but a great challenge...

[@jancello]

@@hafniaanonymous7605 No *fighting* is shown in a civilian context in the Bayeux Tapestry. They are carrying these axes around as status symbols. And the fighting is done in armour and in formation. As for the sagas as I wrote it's unclear, there are axes yes, broadaxes are very rare, and in active use out of a pitched battle / armoured context event rarer.

[@hafniaanonymous7605]

I agree no civillian fighting is shown =)...

[@hafniaanonymous7605]

All im saying is that they will have trained with the axe... as do we... I 100% agree that the merits of the broadaxe is with armour and in the contekst of infantry combat on a specialized level

[@swordandshield]

All good points. Mikkel does indeed change into the overam grip occasionally. I would like to see it more often too. The reason why it is difficult to use in this training context (that is without additional protective gear) is that it is much more difficult to safely apply it, in contrast to the underam grip (which is confirmed by period images too, by the way). This is presumably the reason why it was so widespread a ward: A slide-thrust delivered from the overarm ward is extremely efficient! As for evidence of Dane axe use in duelling contexts: No, none that I am aware of. One could argue that, with the Varangian Guard being equipped with two-handed axes, there might have been contexts other than battles. but that as highly conjectural. Anyway, the scarcity of sources would never keep us from exploring various training contexts for the simple reason that we can. And if only to confirm that it is extremely challenging for the axe fighter to confront a shielded spearman in duel.

[@DivinePonies]

Feels like going full force and speed spear would excel even more. Looks very hard to dodge or parry a fast precise throw.

[@MundusMeus974]

Love the clothing, looks very comfortable.

[@swordandshield]

It is indeed.

[@TheLastKentuckyIrregular9524]

There is a reason the Celts loved spears. People often associate them with the longsword, which they favored for dueling, but it was the spear they loved the most. They even had a now-forgotten martial art based on it and many of their heroes favored it. Versatile and deadly weapon.

[@Lea_Kaderova]

If I would live in medieval times, I would be making iron gloves. I think I would be really rich.

[@skuo118]

Fire Emblem Triangle System lied to me!

[@wyattw9727]

The fights seem like the shield almost does more for the axeman than it does for the spearmen. Particularly thinking about the moment at 1:30 where two handing the spear leads to immediate victory. But the lack of a solid lever grip looks like it makes handling parries from the axe pretty bad.

[@NA-yb9sj]

pretty sure they didn't just stand at arms length and slap sticks. involved a lot of running, smashing into each other with the shields up.

[@VTPSTTU]

Thanks for the video. In real life, how much of Dane axe fighting was one on one and how much was part of groups fighting. I can more easily imagine one soldier along a shield line wielding a Dane axe to break up the other side's shield line. The soldier wielding the Dane axe would be protected by spearmen on his own side who were holding shields.

[@TheNEOverse]

The man with dane axe is usually a mailed professional. Most spearmen would be quite lightly equipped, which changes things a fair bit. Armour is a bigger factor than reach.

[@VTPSTTU]

@@TheNEOverse That makes sense. Thanks!

[@swordandshield]

What the @TheNEOverse said. On the 11th century the Dane axe-wielding so-called Housecarls were an Anglo-Saxon elite unit, fully armoured. In Byzantium, the so-called Varangian guard allegedly used the nordic two-handed axe. They were special forces too.

[@VTPSTTU]

@@swordandshield Thank you both!

[@rolfthienel1295]

how about a shild wall? its easy to train a grounddigger to be a spearman in a shieldwall.

[@Huy-G-Le]

Got to wonder if the Greek also fought like this, every time the formation broke, or when they were using lighter shield.

[@cruassassincat]

Bullet - is a distant spear

[@johnmarken3945]

In a duel with a spear, better to loose the shield and two-hand the spear. Then its like a long rapier, very effective.

[@ElDrHouse2010]

Dane Axe + Spear = Halberd

[@Toxic_Man_]

Spearton vs Juggerknight whoever understands understands ;)

[@S.Gamedev-zc2wp]

Must be extremely difficult to fight but not hurt the opponent

[@tatumergo3931]

I would like to see a collab with Hirdmen channel, they have done similar tests and experiments.

[@hafniaanonymous7605]

September 2024 at hervirke at trelleborg... it will happen 😊

[@tatumergo3931]

@@hafniaanonymous7605. Those are very good news. I'll be waiting for the videos.

[@swordandshield]

Our fellow martial artists and researchers from Hirdmenn are close friends indeed.

[@tatumergo3931]

@@swordandshield . I figure as much, they often mention you.

[@lorgaraurelian1480]

Thank you for the video. Obviously, you enjoy historical reenactment! A chain mail like that costs a lot more then a shield, so the spear and shield guy is in a disadvantage in a one-on-one duel. Another matter, if the shield guys form up a shield wall.

[@swordandshield]

You are welcome. But what makes you conclude that the spear and shield fighter is at a disadvantage in this scenario?

[@Schmidt54]

he axed the wrong questions

[@user-mj8hx2us8r]

Как говорил тренер: "У воина с топором всегда должен быть щит." Так почему его ему не выдали? Я ни разу не держал боевой топор, но так ведь защищенней.

[@UGTLDG]

Clearly the spear is superior one-Vs-one. Makes you wonder how come those famous axe-wielder guards, like Housecarls or Varangians were so dominating! Most probably they were held in reserve to deal with any breakthrougs from the front ranks. I imagine those breaking through would no longer had their spears intact. Or even perhaps those guard units included shield-bearers, probably sword-fighters to punch through or/and disrupt the spear-fence; subsequently the battleaxes would be devastating in close quarters.

[@michaelsanders7484]

What language are they speaking?

[@olegkrikunov5218]

Спасибоьзв интересное!

[@Lemonik_YT-px6gu]

Люцерна))) Обожаю дробящее)))

[@_rinala]

You can see how dangerously easy is to end with that point impaled in your face - even by skilled folk. Now imagine 100 guys facing you... The spear was truly the backbone of mankind

[@jeremiahglover6404]

This is really well done. Unfortunately they can't safely use much of the power of a two handed axe, which against a single handed spear could make a big difference.

[@swordandshield]

I am not so sure. There definitely is a great inherent risk of injury which calls for utmost axe control in practice which does slow down some actions. On the other hand, the two-hande axe is top heavy a weapon, and requires precise and controlled maneuvers to prevent exposing yourself. Plus, each hard blow on a shield means a clear pressure signal easy to respond to for an able opponent, and dedication to one action implies having less tactical flexibility during this action. This should be reserved for the moment when you have established control, and the decisivel blow is but the icing on the cake, in particular against a weapon moving so fast as the spear. Finally, with sharps one has to avoid getting caught in the shield. So utmost control is also called for when the opponent's safety is not a consideration.

[@jeremiahglover6404]

@swordandshield Finesse and timing are always necessary. I'm not suggesting swinging an axe like a baseball bat. But the spear/shield has significant advantage of reach and cover. The only advantage the axe has is power, which I think could be used with control to move the obstacles while closing the distance. Of course, discussing it is much easier than doing it.

[@swordandshield]

@@jeremiahglover6404 Plus, there is always room for improvement, no matter how long you train.

[@wojciechprzewozniak597]

Spear is really good, but in ranked combat with long shaft axe (later halberd itp) you can hook the shields or the whole guys out of ranks. Also blunt-trauma armoured guys in long fights..

[@chuckfindlaydangershow5640]

Are they gonna fight or fuck...cant tell with sll the lil lovetaps

[@danielomar9712]

As they say , love can be found in the battlefield

[@Matt_Alaric]

Surely the people with the axes have to hold back their speed and power for fear of injuring their opponent if it connects? Like you can't safely and delicately recreate a full speed axe swing.

[@swordandshield]

Yes and no. There definitely is a great inherent risk of injury which calls for utmost control in practice. This does slow down some actions, swift changes in combos in particular. On the other hand, the two-hande axe is top heavy a weapon, and requires precise and controlled maneuvers to prevent exposing yourself. Plus, each hard blow on a shield means a clear pressure signal easy to respond to for an able opponent, and dedication to one action implies having less tactical flexibility during this action. This should be resereved for the moment when you have established control, and the decisivel blow is but the icing on the cake. Finally, with sharps one has to avoid getting caught in the shield. So utmost control is also called for when the opponent's safety is not a consideration. I would also like to point out that, in terms of speed, it is weapon speed that counts, not the speed at which combatants move. The economy of movement that can be seen with skilled martial artists is oftentimes deceiving because general audiences are used to watch the overall frame. But looking at the spear point alone, or the axe head, then I do not feel that they would move considerably faster in other training scenarios.

[@motostradacompanhia6293]

que luta é essa, a função do machado é quebrar o escudo e ataques com força, e o uso do escudo é defender e desequilibrar o inimigo.

[@MrMinecraftmasters12]

Average duelyard in chivalry 2

[@EmilReiko]

Eow, those sounds like Spear-Danes Lo! the Spear-Danes' glory through splendid achievements The folk-kings' former fame we have heard of, How princes displayed then their prowess-in-battle.

[@formam1022]

I can see a unit of angry vikings using dane axes breaking a unit of spearman, due to how tight spear formations are I think they can get close enough to kinda void a spear

[@alexl7213]

Spear, pike halberd. The head shape changed throughout the years, but the spear was the basis of ancient warfare. Only firearms turned it obsolete.

[@Insanity_TM]

Gad vide hvor det var optaget

[@hafniaanonymous7605]

Hedeby

[@anthonymerten1734]

I've always wondered how someone trained in armor would treat a spear opponent. A spear is great with long range, and fast recovery but if you attack an armored location and your opponent advances on you then they have a great advantage. Context matters though, training, fighting in ranks, role, armor etc etc.

[@swordandshield]

Good point. Based on previous tests, we considered spear shots to a hauberk as a valid, fight terminating hit in this form of training. Slices, however, would have no cutting ability. You can see Mikkel addressing this issue in the full 10 minute video: exciting-pioneer-6049.ck.page/e291efd8de This being said, while e.g. a thrust from a Viking sword has a lot less armour piercing capability, the impact of being stabbed would feel like a massive punch and could hardly be ignored. At any rate, armour offers protection when e.g. your skill has betrayed you. But it was never made to replace skill.

[@kaivirkkala3213]

Axe battler, use the shield to protect your torso and swing axe at the opponents feet and legs, then go for the killer blow.

[@clearmelody6252]

I think they know what they're doing, mate.

[@kaivirkkala3213]

@@clearmelody6252 Yes I am aware of that, but that is what I see what I would do for change the battle tactics and get the opponent off guard..😉

[@asellandrofacchio7263]

You cannot wield a dane axe while using a shield, genius, it's a two handed weapon...

[@imperialhistorian4201]

Uhhh... no protection?

[@CodyHomes]

Both are wearing gamberson that's light duty armor and padded protective clothing, often worn underneath more armor. They also have large shields that off a lot of heavy level protection. Same with the chain mail, other than medium level protection against stabbing. It's a reenactment with period accurate protection and weapons.

[@imperialhistorian4201]

@@CodyHomes With a thrusting weapon and no face protection is a disfigurement waiting to happen

[@swordandshield]

In my experience, the more protection is worn, the less precise practitioners become. The pros and cons of protective gear have been discussed repeatedly in this video's comments, in case you are interested.

[@andreyanishchenko607]

Scary... No protection for neck, head, hands.

[@Yoo-Kang]

1:20 this scene looks like the mobile game bloody bastards

[@kzFORWARD]

Vikings fight each other

[@user-lf2bk9gh5v]

У копейщика слишком пассивная манера владения щитом! Щит даёт возможность блокировать оружие противника для быстрого укола в ногу с последующим отходом.

[@swordandshield]

Well, I think he is doing pretty well, isn't he? And why launch a complex maneuver when you could just simply thrust at the face from a distance?

[@raul88.88]

🪓🗡🙌🏼

[@udikai7799]

Dane axe is left-handed weapon know for ripping shields from enemy tho it can be used righthanded effectiveness reduced why elite housecarls trained to use dane axe on left side

[@JFBPKCooperD7]

I bet they love game of thrones