[split] Phalanx warfare: use of the spear

[JaM]

Been watching those Thrand videos recently, and must say his sliding technique definitely is something interesting and is quite effective (which is not that surprising, as it gives the most speed to the weapon), yet to say it was the one that was used by Hoplites is very hard to prove. Chris Matthews made very good points against overarm, mostly in combat fatigue area, and of course pointing out all the issues with it, from formation perspective. 3ft spacing just don't give enough space to operate Dory effectively like this, so i think that should be the thing to actually test - first, have somebody use this technique for slightly longer period of time, let say over 15 minutes within a tight formation, and not just on the sides, but also behind in at least 2 rows (not live person, just figurines with aspis, and preferably them also having spears in same position) because one technique can be very effective for open formation ,but might be completely impossible within actual phalanx. Then, also try doing basic maneuvers with the spear, like get into ready position, put it back to march position (you dont wanna hold spear up all the time) etc etc..

That is what youtube videos lack, yet Chris Matthew actually did in his tests..