spearhand

Spearhand refers to a specialized type of soldier in medieval European warfare who is trained to wield a spear with both hands, allowing for greater control and striking power. The term first appeared in 12th‑century chronicles describing the footmen of the French royal guard, who were noted for their proficiency with the long spear (Latin: verutum). By the 13th and 14th centuries, the designation spread to other European armies, especially in England and Italy, where spearmen often served as a flexible infantry group capable of breaking enemy formations or reinforcing defensive lines.

A spearhand typically carried a double‑ended or standard long spear, using both hands to bear the shaft. This two‑handed grip gave the soldier a longer reach than a single‑handed javelin thrower, but less mobility than a single‑handed lance bearer. The training emphasized strength, endurance, and the ability to perform volleys of thrusts while maintaining alignment with battle lines. In some armies, spearhands were organized into distinct units that could also perform duties as pikemen, using the same weapon but with different stance and tactics.

Notable examples of spearhand units include the French Garde Écossaise and the Florentine Guard of the Siege of Pisa in 1348, where their disciplined melee tactics contributed to the outcome of key engagements. In modern military historical studies, the spearhand is often discussed as a precursor to the pike and shot concept, illustrating the evolution of infantry formations during the Middle Ages.