Referring to archeological discoveries, polearms belong to the oldest weapons of mankind. The original shape was the spear, and it was not before the Middle Ages that several variations were invented, for example the halberd, a combination of spear and axe.

The ancient Greeks had already discovered the great tactical advantages of the polearms. Their phalanxes employed 3 to 4 metres long spears to pierce their opponents. In Europe, spears also belonged to an army at all times during the Middle Ages. The lance, for example, used by knights in battle or for warfare derives from this kind of weapon.

________________________