07-18-2008, 05:53 PM
Quote:This depends on what is is meant by full length, as there needs to be some of it behind the rider as a balancing point plus he is sat in the middle of the horse so may lose at least a 5th of the length (probably more) before it protrudes from the front of the animal? Probe and it will be grabbed, as staed in teh book Gallic cavalry used this tactic gains Clibanari.Who says you can only use it from a frontal position? If your shaft is long enough, you can stab and still be out or reach of the opposing spears. From a fairly stationary position, even. An enemy breaking ranks to go for you would mean certain death. Your armour (and that of the horse) are there to protect you from missile weapons aimed at you in the meantime.
Quote:My contos is 4m long. I don't have a balance problem. I'm sure somebody might try to grasp the end. A two handed strike is more powerful than a one handed strike.And some were 8 m or longer. If someone would try to grab the end I'm sure there would be another cavalryman eager to stop him doing that. :wink:
Robert Vermaat
MODERATOR
FECTIO Late Romans
THE CAUSE OF WAR MUST BE JUST
(Maurikios-Strategikon, book VIII.2: Maxim 12)
MODERATOR
FECTIO Late Romans
THE CAUSE OF WAR MUST BE JUST
(Maurikios-Strategikon, book VIII.2: Maxim 12)
