The Partisan
A partisan (also partizan) is a type of polearm. Yes, the name is the same with the name for paramilitary forces engaged behind the front line, but we’re talking about weapons here.
The partisan was used in Europe during the middle ages. It consisted of a spearhead mounted on a long shaft (usually made of wood) with protrusions on the sides which aided the user in parrying sword thrusts.
Like the halberd it quickly became obsolete with the arrival of practical firearms although it stayed in use for many years as a ceremonial weapon because they can be made into elegant weapons without detracting from their usefulness. In profile, the head of a partisan may look similar to that of a ranseur, ox tongue, or spetum.
Still, differently by the halberd, the partisan doesn’t have an axe blade mounted onto the spear. Still, the power of this polearm was given especially when fighting in packed formations for chopping downwards onto opponents in front, often several ranks in front.
The blade of the partisan can have different shapes and forms and just like the halberd, it can cause terrible injuries and cut or rip through steel helmets. In addition to these uses, many partisan have notches, spaces or other motifs that can trap an opponent’s weapon and disarm him.
Photo source: The Rion Arms
