[split] Phalanx warfare: use of the spear

[Dan Howard]

The potential power of the thrust is irrelevant. It takes very little force to pierce flesh and it is effectively impossible to thrust a one-handed spear through armour - it doesn't matter whether it is overhanded or underhanded. In addition, in a battle the experienced fighters are rarely attacking with full force; they get tired way too quickly and they increase the chances of the weapon getting stuck. The ideal tactic is to aim at unprotected parts of the body and to conserve your energy by using light quick jabs.