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Post by fujiwara on Feb 19, 2007 9:59:00 GMT -5
I didn't want to clutter up the other threads with what is essentially a yes/no question:
Was the yari, in its various incarnations, used as a cutting weapon a well as a thrusting weapon? Was this a more secondary use, or equal with thrusting techniques?
Arigatou gozaimasu!
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Post by Date Saburou Yukiie on Feb 19, 2007 10:51:26 GMT -5
I didn't want to clutter up the other threads with what is essentially a yes/no question: Was the yari, in its various incarnations, used as a cutting weapon a well as a thrusting weapon? Was this a more secondary use, or equal with thrusting techniques? Arigatou gozaimasu! Fujiwara-dono... Though we do not use a yari as a cutting weapon in SCA heavy weapons context, a yari could indeed be used to cut, as I understand its use from my teachings and experience. Indeed, the entire weapon, including the haft, could be used to pummel, beat, crush and bludgeon an oponent. All weapons are like that. A haft falling or guided from several meters over a targets head and landing on a helmet, a head, or shoulders would inflict damage that would injure or stun the target. Shins can be crippled. Wrists or arms can be broken. Damage in combat is cumulative, and not selective, as we portray it in SCA most combat. I would not put it on equal terms with its thrusting function, yet it should not be ignored. Over time, the yari changed length, evolving from its longer pike-like style used by foot soldiers to the shorter late period use by mounted samurai...yet the functions of the weapon cannot be dismissed. When spear units engage their target, thrusting is quite effective, (especially when teamed up) but the effects of a crushing blow with a weapon that weighs the likes of a yari can indeed cause damage. The chaos of the engagement is compounded by such bludgeoning, which leads to disorientation of the target. If your helmet is bashed over your eyes, your prime concern becomes on of being able to see, and in that moment the enemy can strike...or his buddy beside him. The spear is the queen of battle, second only to the arrow. (IMHO) Date |
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Post by fujiwara on Feb 19, 2007 13:27:32 GMT -5
Arigatou, Date-dono. This is as I thought.
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Post by Date Saburou Yukiie on Feb 19, 2007 13:35:53 GMT -5
Still...I should refine my answer...the blade of a yari is triangular in cross-section...there are sharp edges - but they are not blade like...These edges can cut skin, cloth, armor parts...but bear in mind they are not like swords...
Date
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