Överfallshjulet

Överfallshjulet, meaning "assault wheel" in Swedish, is a term that has appeared in historical Swedish military contexts. It refers to a specific type of defensive obstacle or device designed to impede enemy advances. While detailed descriptions are scarce, the concept suggests a rotating structure intended to physically push back or injure attackers who attempted to cross it.

The primary purpose of an överfallshjul would have been to create a barrier that required significant effort and possibly specialized equipment to overcome. Such devices were likely employed in fortifications or strategic choke points to slow down enemy forces, allowing defenders more time to react or to inflict casualties before the enemy could reach their main positions. The exact construction and implementation varied depending on the historical period and the resources available to the builders.

The term itself indicates a direct and forceful interaction with the attacker. The "wheel" aspect implies a circular or cylindrical form, potentially equipped with spikes, levers, or other elements that would actively engage with approaching individuals. While not a widely deployed or documented military technology compared to other siege defenses, the överfallshjul represents a creative, albeit perhaps brutal, approach to static defense in historical warfare. Its limited mention in historical records suggests it may have been a niche or experimental defensive measure.