Hand-forged spearhead, traditionally made in a Czech forge. The spearhead features a socket into which a wooden shaft is fitted. Its simple leaf-shaped design is based on historical types of spearheads used throughout Europe for many centuries.
As each piece is hand-forged, every spearhead is unique and may show slight variations in shape, dimensions and surface finish.
-
Spearhead length: approx. 10 cm
-
Material: steel
-
Finish: hand-forged
-
Mounting: socket for a wooden shaft
-
Made in the Czech Republic
-
Wooden shaft not included
The spear is one of the oldest weapons in human history. Its origins reach far back into prehistoric times, when simple wooden points were first used, followed by stone, bronze and eventually iron spearheads. As ironworking developed, a wide variety of forged spearheads appeared in different sizes and shapes according to their intended purpose.
Spears formed an important part of the weaponry of the Celts, Germanic peoples, Romans, Slavs and Vikings and remained significant in medieval warfare. Their advantages included relatively simple construction, long reach and the possibility of being used both on foot and on horseback.
What is the difference between a spear and a javelin?
The terms spear and javelin can overlap, and their precise distinction also depends on the particular historical period.
Generally speaking, a spear was primarily a thrusting weapon with a longer and usually sturdier shaft. The warrior retained it in hand during combat and used its reach to thrust at an opponent.
A javelin was generally lighter and shorter and could be used both for thrusting and for throwing at an opponent. However, many intermediate forms existed throughout history, and archaeological finds cannot always be clearly classified solely by the shape of the spearhead.
Forged spearheads were generally equipped with a socket into which the wooden shaft was inserted. The head could then be secured with a nail or rivet.