Description of Broadsword
The weapons used during the Middle Ages include the Broadsword. The description of the Broadsword which provides basic facts and information about the weapon is as follows: - The Broadsword - The Broadsword was the earliest of the Medieval swords from the 6th Century
- The Broadsword had a two-edged blade measuring 2-3 inches wide at the base which tapered to a point
- The length of the Broadsword ranged from 30 - 45 inches
- The Medieval Broadsword weighed between 3 - 5 pounds
- It was used as close contact weapon
- The weapon was primarily used for cutting or slicing an opponent and was capable of cutting off the limbs or head of an enemy in one stroke
- Type or group of weapons - Cutting Weapon
The Baskethilt Broadsword
There is some confusion regarding the actual meaning and definition of the Baskethilt broadsword. The term was originally used during the 1600's - 1800's referring to broadswords like the Scots baskethilted claymore. The basket was designed to protect the hand in combat. The Baskethilt broadsword measured: - 105 cm long (90 cm of which is blade) with a base blade width of 3.5 cm
- The baskethilt broadsword weighed about one kilogram
- The baskethilt broadsword featured a basket which was designed to protect the hand in combat
The confusion arose over the meaning of the term baskethilt broadsword when museum curators and other experts began to use the term to refer to the medieval arming sword enabling them to be distinguished from the slimmer blades of the rapier, smallsword and épée. This definition of the baskethilt broadsword is still the one most commonly understood. Broadsword Training
Skill in the use of Medieval weapons and understanding the strategy of Medieval Warfare was necessary and a played a vital part in Medieval life. The broadsword training required by a Knight was extremely time consuming - it was necessary for them to become expert swordsmen. Skill in using Medieval weapons, including broadsword training was necessary for every Medieval Knight. A Knight was trained first as a Page from the age of 7 to 14 and then as Squire from the age of 14 to 21. Special places were assigned for Broadsword training called the Pell. Pell Training allowed knights to practise various vicious strokes and manoeuvres during their Broadsword training such as thrusting, cutting, and slicing without imposing an injury on his opponent. | 
