Luions

Luions, a rare find in some medieval tournaments, are types of large, ornate maces that were often wielded by knights and aristocrats. Characterized by their imposing size and heavy, often decorated club-like heads, these maces were frequently made with iron or steel and were equipped with a long, sturdy handle made from wood, often reinforced with metal strips.

The design of Luions varied throughout history, with different styles emerging in different regions. Some Luions were adorned with intricate engravings, while others were left plain, reflecting the owner's status or preferences. In terms of functionality, Luions are deemed to be effective for crushing armor, while the long handle provides a greater reach, allowing the wielder to attack at a safer distance.

The term Luions can be confused with Mauls, another rare type of medieval mace. However, Luions are generally characterized by their heavier heads and larger size, distinguishing them from Mauls which tend to be smaller and more compact.

During the Renaissance and the Baroque periods, the use of Luions declined in favor of more agile and quicker to maneuver weapons, like rapiers and estocs. Nevertheless, some unique examples of Luions can still be found in museums and historical reenactments, serving as a testament to a long-forgotten era in combat history. Today, collectors and historians continue to study and appreciate these rarely seen instruments, often making an intriguing subject of study in the annals of warfare and combat.