What is war scythe?

A war scythe is a weapon that combines the blade of a scythe with a long handle, typically around 5 to 6 feet in length. It was primarily used as a weapon during medieval times, particularly in Eastern Europe.

The blade of a war scythe is typically made of metal and is curved like a traditional farming scythe, but with a sharper edge for combat purposes. It was used by infantry soldiers to hook, slash, and strike at their enemies in close combat.

The war scythe was particularly effective against cavalry due to its long reach and curved blade, which could easily trip or dismount a mounted opponent. It was also used to cleave through armor and deliver powerful blows in battle.

While not as commonly seen on the battlefield as swords or spears, the war scythe had a fearsome reputation and was used in conflicts such as the Russian Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, and various uprisings and revolutions in Eastern Europe.

Today, the war scythe is primarily used as a historical reenactment weapon and is not commonly used in modern warfare. However, it remains a fascinating and unique weapon that reflects the ingenuity of medieval warriors in adapting everyday tools for combat.