Key Point: A ranseur is a polearm with a spearhead that features two crescent-shaped side blades, used for thrusting and cutting in combat.
In this article, we will explore the ranseur polearm. What the ranseur is, how it was used in battle, and what ultimately lead to the ranseur disappearing from the battlefield.
But before we continue, let’s establish first what a ranseur is. So … what kind of weapon was the ranseur?
According to Paul Wagner’s “The Evolution of Polearms,”:
The ranseur was a type of polearm that originated in Europe in the late 15th century. It was characterized by its three-pronged spearhead, which was used to disarm opponents by catching and pulling away their weapons. The ranseur was primarily used by foot soldiers and was popular during the Renaissance period.
That is the short version of the article. The key takeaway so to speak. Now, let’s explore it a little bit more in detail. Starting with …
Origin Of The Ranseur
The ranseur was a type of polearm weapon that originated in Europe during the late medieval period. The word “ranseur” comes from the Old French word “rancier”, which means “spearhead”. So, as you can tell the weapon originated from France.
It was based on the earlier pike, with the difference being it had a shorter blade with two or three prongs at the end. This allowed the weapon to be used more effectively in tight spaces, such as inside buildings or in narrow alleyways.
Now, let’s check out one of the battles where the ranseur played a part.
Battle Where It Was Used
A notable example is the Battle of Pavia in 1525. This is where the French army employed a large number of ranseurs. The French were ultimately defeated by the Spanish army. But even so the ranseurs proved to be an effective weapon in close combat. The weapon’s ability to thrust, cut, and hook made it a popular choice on the battlefield.
Now, for its dimensions.
Dimensions Of The Ranseur
The ranseur shaft measured between 6 and 8 feet in length, with the blade or prongs at the end measuring approximately 12 to 16 inches. The length of the weapon made it effective for thrusting attacks, while the prongs allowed the user to hook and disarm opponents. The weapon was also lightweight, which made it easy to maneuver in close quarters.
And what was it made from?
Materials Used
The blade and prongs of the ranseur were typically made of iron or steel, while the shaft was made of hardwood or ash. Some ranseurs also featured decorative elements, such as etched designs or brass fittings. But these high-end designs usually went to well-off individuals not normal soldiers.
And what were the tactics used with the ranseur?
How It Was Used In Battle
The ranseur was primarily used by infantry soldiers in close combat. Its long reach and ability to thrust, cut, and hook made it effective against both armored and unarmored opponents. In formation, soldiers armed with ranseurs could hold off enemy cavalry charges. The weapon also came in handy in sieges, where soldiers could use the prongs to pull down wooden structures or create gaps in walls.
It kind of acted like a spear with the added functionality of being able to pull people down.
Why It Disappeared From The Battlefield
The ranseur gradually fell out of use in the 17th century, for the same reasons as did other polearms. Firearms just got a whole lot better.
With the introduction of effective muskets, the ranseur became obsolete as a primary weapon. Pretty much the same thing happened with the Bohemian earspoon, which you can see here.
In Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope you learned a thing or two. And I will see you at the next one. I suggest taking a look at this article next where you can see the guisarme polearm detailed.
Take care!
Source:
European Weapons and Armour: From the Renaissance to the Industrial Revolution by Ewart Oakeshott
“The Evolution of Polearms” by Paul Wagner