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Arming sword vs Longsword, what are the differences and which is better? The longsword and arming swords are two European sword types used by knights on the battlefield during medieval times. The arming sword was an earlier, one-handed weapon used by knights, while the longsword was crafted later as a two-handed version offering more reach and power. Even though they share many similarities in design, they also have distinct differences that define them. In this post, we will explore their qualities, effectiveness, and differences.
| Feature | Arming Sword | Longsword |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Grip | One-handed | Primarily Two-handed |
| Typical Blade Length | 70 to 85 cm | 80 to 115 cm |
| Typical Weight | 0.8 to 1.45 kg | 1.2 to 2.4 kg |
| Common Historical Period | 10th–15th/16th centuries | 14th–16th centuries (with earlier forms) |
| Primary Use | Warfare (with shield), dueling, sidearm | Warfare (foot/horse), dueling, tournaments |
| Key Advantages | Maneuverability, shield compatibility, ease of carry | Reach, power, effectiveness against armor, versatility in techniques |
| Key Similarities | Straight, double-edged blade; cruciform hilt (generally); used for cutting and thrusting |
Longsword Vs Arming Sword Design
The earlier arming sword passed down many characteristics to the longsword. In fact, they often look so similar that the longsword basically seems like an extended version of it. Both types share a double-edged blade ending in a sharp point for thrusting, though the arming sword’s is shorter to be balanced for one-handed use. They also share a typically simple or slightly curved crossguard, and a pommel that could come in different shapes to balance the weight and help keep the hand from slipping.
The key difference between an arming sword and a longsword is that arming swords are designed specifically for one-handed usage, while longswords are designed primarily for two-handed use.
Size and Weight
The most noticeable difference between the arming sword and the longsword is size. The longsword is longer overall, with blades usually between 80 and 115 centimeters. In contrast, the arming sword has a shorter blade, typically around 70 to 85 centimeters (28 to 33 inches).
Weight is another difference. The arming sword is lighter, usually between 0.8 and 1.45 kilograms (1.76 to 3.2 pounds). The longsword tends to be heavier, ranging from 1 to 2 kilograms, with some even going beyond that.
Grip and Handling
The primary distinction between arming swords and longswords lies in the length of their grips. Arming swords are designed for single-handed use and features shorter grips typically measuring 10-15cm. Longswords, conversely, possess longer grips spanning 20-30cm, facilitating two-handed wielding for increased leverage and control. This difference in grip length significantly influenced handling characteristics.
Arming swords prioritized speed and compatibility with shields, while longswords emphasized power through two-handed techniques, though they could also be used one-handed. Bridging the gap between these two types was the hand-and-a-half sword, also known as a bastard sword, which offered a versatile grip adaptable to both one- and two-handed use.
Check: Bastard sword vs Longsword
Advantages of the Arming Sword
As a one-handed sword, this type was good for many fighting situations for a single fighter. Especially when used with a shield, it offered clear advantages due to its lighter and shorter design, allowing smooth switching between hitting and blocking. Because of this lighter build, faster one-handed hits might have been possible, helping with quicker reactions in close combat.
Its compact dimensions enhanced maneuverability in constricted environments like buildings or dense formations. Moreover, its convenient size made it easily portable for daily wear and self-defense. Finally, its design allowed for easier use on horseback, leaving the rider’s other hand free to manage the horse.
Advantages of the Longsword
The two-handed longsword offered significant benefits, including extended reach for safer engagements and the potential for more powerful strikes. Its longer blade allowed wielders to keep opponents at bay, while the use of both hands maximized the force behind each blow. This enhanced power, along with techniques like half-swording, made the longsword a formidable weapon against armored adversaries, enabling targeted thrusts into weak points.
Furthermore, its versatility extended to grappling, disarming, and varied gripping techniques, allowing for adaptation to diverse combat scenarios. Although designed for two hands, the longsword could also be wielded effectively in one hand when needed, providing an extra layer of adaptability.
Which Triumphs
In a fencing match with established rules and point scoring, the longsword has an overall advantage, mainly because its longer reach makes it easier to score points. The same applies in a real one-on-one fight without armor or additional tools.
However, when considering a knight wielding only a medieval longsword while covered in full armor against an opponent holding an arming sword and shield (in an open field), I would say the arming sword holder has a chance to find vulnerable spots in the armor. Overall, the fighter with the longsword would likely win in most scenarios.
Last Words
Although both swords have many similarities, their differences put them into separate categories. The main one is handling—arming swords are made to be used with one hand, while longswords are meant for two. This difference in grip and use made each sword better suited for specific roles on the battlefield.
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