zweihänder

Zweihänder, meaning two-hander in German, is a class of long, two-handed swords developed in Central Europe during the late Middle Ages and the early Renaissance. In English, the term is often rendered as greatsword. The weapon is characterized by a long blade, a two-handed grip, and a cruciform hilt; its size and design distinguish it from shorter one-handed swords.

Historically, zweihänder swords appear from the 15th to the 16th centuries, notably among Landsknechte and other German-speaking sword practitioners. They were used on the battlefield to counter pike formations and to break through infantry lines, sometimes in combination with polearms. In civilian contexts, they appeared in duels and carried symbolic or status value, though their practical military use declined as armor and firearms evolved.

Design and construction: blade lengths typically range from about 110 to 160 cm, with overall weapon lengths around 140 to 210 cm. Weights vary, commonly roughly 2.5 to 7 kg. The hilt provides a grip for both hands, and the crossguard is often extended to protect the wielder’s hands. Some blades feature a fuller to reduce weight, and tip shapes may favor thrusting or cutting depending on the individual weapon.

Technique and training: wielders employed powerful two-handed cuts and thrusts, capable of sweeping aside shields or armor and breaking through lines of troops armed with polearms. In modern practice, zweihänder techniques are studied within historical European martial arts and reconstructed fencing traditions.