Peasant Weapons in Medieval Times: Affordable Swords and More

During the medieval era, peasants typically had limited access to quality weapons compared to knights and nobles. However, they found ways to arm themselves with various sword-like and improvised tools, often based on affordability and practicality. Let's explore the different types of swords and weapons peasants could afford in medieval times.

Types of Affordable Swords for Peasants

Short Swords: These were sometimes the most accessible options for peasants. Short swords were less expensive than longer, more ornate swords and often served as utilitarian blades designed for practical use rather than combat. These swords were simpler and more cost-effective, making them an attractive option for those with limited resources.

Falchions: Falchions were single-edged swords with a curved blade resembling a machete. These swords were often more affordable and versatile, capable of both cutting and slashing. Due to their simple design, falchions allowed peasants to secure a weapon at a lower cost.

Bastard Swords: Also known as hand-and-a-half swords, these could be somewhat more affordable than full-length arming swords. They offered versatility, as they could be wielded with one or two hands, making them a practical choice for peasants.

Local Blacksmith-made Blades: Local blacksmiths played a crucial role in crafting simpler swords and blades tailored to a peasant's budget. These swords, while lacking the refinement and quality of a knight's sword, were often effective in their intended purposes.

Improvized Farm Implements as Weapons

Whenever necessary, many peasants used modified tools as weapons. Common farm implements like billhooks, sickles, and other sharp instruments could serve as effective makeshift weapons in desperate situations. These tools, though crude, often provided a means of self-defense when other options were not available.

Weapon Costs and Practicalities

While peasants could find ways to arm themselves, the quality and cost of these weapons often reflected their limitations. For example, by the 1500s, in England, a decent arming sword worth carrying and relying on might cost around 40 shillings, equivalent to about a month's wages for a skilled laborer. Cheap swords, as described by one source, were often of poor quality and likely to fail in combat.

Another option, the Dussak seax, bauernwehr messer, exemplifies the types of cheap, utilitarian blades peasants could obtain. Although they were considered legal for peasants to carry in some areas, such weapons were often not worth their price due to their poor quality. The term 'cheap' is subjective, but these long blades were always more expensive than other forms of weapons or tools, reflecting their rarity and value.

Conclusion

While peasants faced significant limitations in acquiring quality weapons, they found ways to arm themselves with affordable swords and improvised tools. This underscores the ingenuity and resourcefulness of medieval peasants. Understanding these weapons and their practical applications provides valuable insight into the medieval world, particularly for those interested in history, archaeology, or even medieval reenactments.