Mace
A flanged metal club effective against armor
The mace is a striking weapon with a metal head, one of the oldest weapon types in human history. Used since the Bronze Age, it evolved in the medieval period into flanged or knobbed metal heads designed to crush armor. The flanged design concentrates force on a narrow area, transmitting impact even through armor. At 50-80cm total length with a head weighing 1-2kg, it is wielded one-handed. The popular notion that medieval clergy used maces as "bloodless" weapons is widely circulated but historically unfounded — a myth created in later periods.
Origin
One of humanity's oldest weapon types, used since the Bronze Age (c. 3000 BC). Evolved into flanged designs in medieval Europe, becoming a key striking weapon of the armored era.
Features
- Flanged (winged) or knobbed metal head
- Total length 50-80cm, head weight 1-2kg
- Transmits impact through armor
- Used since the Bronze Age
- "Bloodless clergy weapon" myth — historically unfounded
- One-handed use, compatible with shields
Usage
Struck at helmets and joints of armored opponents to cause concussions and fractures through the armor. Typically wielded one-handed with a shield.