Two-Handed Sword or Bihander
Dated: c. 1580 CE
Reading Time: 0:45 min
A two-handed sword, or bihander, from the late 16th century CE, was a formidable weapon, designed for both devastating cuts and thrusts in combat. Typically, it measured between 150 and 180 cm in length, with a broad, double-edged blade. The blade tapered slightly towards the point, with a wide fuller running along the centre to reduce weight while maintaining strength.
The hilt was robust and designed to accommodate both hands, featuring a wide crossguard for protection, often with a slight upward curve at the ends. The grip was long enough for the user to place both hands, ensuring maximum control and leverage for powerful strikes. The pommel was large, often spherical or wheel-shaped, to help balance the sword and provide a counterweight to the heavy blade.
The bihander was particularly suited for two-handed use in large-scale battles, where its reach and cutting power overwhelmed opponents. In addition to their martial purpose, these swords displayed the owner’s wealth and status, with some swords having ornamental fittings of silver or brass.
Parts of a Bihander Sword
Reading Time: 1:15 min
A two-handed sword or bihander consisted of several key parts, each with a distinct function. The main components are described below:
Blade: The long, primary cutting part of the sword. The blade was typically double-edged, tapering towards the point. A fuller (groove) ran along the centre to reduce the weight of the sword without sacrificing strength. The length of the blade was generally between 150 to 180 cm.
Tip (Point): The sharp end of the blade was designed for thrusting or stabbing.
Spine: This was the central part of the blade. It provided strength to the blade.
Fuller: A groove (blood groove) ran down the centre of the blade. This groove helped to reduce the weight of the blade. Thus, flexibility was improved without compromising the blade’s strength.
Crossguard: This horizontal bar extended from the hilt and provided protection for the user’s hands.
Grip: On a bihander, the grip was long enough to accommodate both hands, allowing for better control and leverage. It was usually wrapped in leather or another material for a firm hold.
Pommel: This was the counterweight at the base of the hilt, opposite the blade. The pommel served to balance the sword and provided a grip for the second hand. It also served as a point of decoration or symbol, often being large, round, or wheel-shaped, and sometimes engraved with ornate designs.
Tang: This was the portion of the blade that extended into the hilt. Typically, the tang was secured by rivets to hold the sword together. In a bihander, the tang was robust to withstand the forces of two-handed use.
Guard Rings or Hand Guards: In some designs, additional rings or protective plates were added to the crossguard or around the grip for further hand protection.
