Experimental Production Technology of Medieval Two-handed Swords

Abstract

This study examined the manufacturing process of the two-handed flamberge, a historic European weapon, emphasizing technical complexity, the importance of applying ergonomic principles, and the application of experimental archaeology methods. Flamberge’s production, which required the work of highly skilled craftsmen, was technically difficult due to its unique design and functional application, making this weapon elite and accessible to only a few. The length of the weapon's handle, the size of the blade, the additional crossbar, and the ricasso gave the wielder extraordinary cutting power and maneuverability on the battlefield. Despite the flamberge’s advantages, its production process also revealed certain disadvantages, such as reduced blade stiffness and greater weight, which led to the decline in popularity of this weapon at the end of the 17th century. The research methodology, which includes experimental reconstruction, design and production experiments, physical and mechanical efficiency tests, and the application of experimental metallurgy, allowed a deeper understanding of historical weaponry production technologies, material properties, and ergonomics for practical use. The study's results show that the differences in blade hardness are due to the uneven distribution of temperature across the blade, depending on its mass and thickness, which confirms that each part of the weapon requires an individual heat treatment approach. This work proves that experimental archaeology and practical reconstructions are important not only for the reconstruction of historical weapon production processes but also for promoting a deeper understanding of historical culture.