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Chris@ChristopherCant.comWhen I first encountered the terms "broadsword" and "longsword," I initially assumed their differences were based on size — one sword being broad, and the other long. But I was completely wrong.
Oh, you thought the same thing, did you? You’re here to learn what the actual differences are? Well, let’s clear it up then!
The longsword traces its origins to the 13th century in medieval Europe. It was made for hewing, thrusting, and slicing, basically to be a versatile blade, and became a staple on the battlefield and in the training halls of knights and warriors of the middle-ages.
The broadsword can broadly (hehe) be divided into two types; the original was made by the Romans, with roots going back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries. A later version of the broadsword was also created in Europe during the Renaissance.
When it comes to size and weight, the longsword weighs around 3.1 pounds, with an overall length ranging from 41 to 47 inches. On the other hand, the broadsword is slightly lighter at 3 pounds, with an overall length of approximately 37 inches. The blade of a longsword measures between 35 and 36 inches, while the broadsword's blade typically spans 31.5 inches.
A key visual disparity lies in the shape and features of these swords. The broadsword has a shorter handle and a broader blade compared to the longsword. Notably, the renaissance broadsword features a defined basket hilt, while the longsword showcases a longer, double-edged blade with a straight edge.
Historically, the longsword was favored for its two-handed grip. It was used for cutting and thrusting while providing greater reach on the battlefield. It gained prominence during the Middle Ages and continued to be utilized during the Renaissance. The broadsword was predominantly used for cutting and chopping. It was often wielded single-handedly and used as a military weapon, especially during the 16th and 17th centuries. Knights in the Middle Ages favored the broadsword for its effectiveness in close combat.
In combat, both swords had their strengths and limitations. While neither could directly slice nor stab through plate armor, they were effective within their respective contexts. Longswords posed a challenge for counterattack against one-handed swords due to their longer reach and guard. The longer guard of the longsword made it suitable for thrusting into armor gaps, a tactic often employed in armored combat. On the other hand, broadswords, due to their shorter, heavier, and more maneuverable design, were better in close-quarter engagements and swift strikes.
Do you want to fence and your only options are the broadsword and the longsword? Choose your sword based on your combat techniques. If you excel in close-range battles, use a broadsword and benefit from its maneuverable design. If not, you can use a longsword and aim for the armor gaps while keeping your distance from your opponent. You can win the battle more easily if you don’t let your opponent get close to you.
We are both massive fantasy, sci-fi and mythology nerds!
I started making digital art in 2009, and became a full-time freelance artist in 2016, able to work on my own schedule from anywhere in the world.
I created this blog to help young artists make the same journey.
