Lucerne Hammer Replica (Falcon's Beak)

Lucerne Hammer Replica (Falcon's Beak) – Polearm for Historical Fencing & Reenactment

Appearance and Construction of the Replica

This replica faithfully mirrors the appearance and construction of original Lucerne hammers. The metal head has a dark, matte finish, giving it an authentic, period look. The axe-like part (fluke), with an edge length of 25.5 cm, features a decorative filed cross measuring 5 x 5 cm. The hammer's striking surface, measuring 7.3 x 3.2 cm, has small filed squares to increase its effectiveness. The long central quadrangular spike measures 29 cm, and the two shorter side spikes are 7 cm long. The total length of the metal part is 79 cm, and its width reaches 22.5 cm. Two iron langets (straps), 42 cm in length, are used to attach it to the wooden shaft by riveting. The wooden shaft (haft) is made of ash wood in a prismatic shape and measures 166 cm. The bottom end of the shaft is fitted with a metal butt cap 7.5 cm long, which protects the wood and can also be used for striking. The total weight of the metal head is approximately 1731 g, and the wooden shaft weighs around 1159 g.

Uses for Your New War Hammer

This Lucerne Hammer replica offers you a wide range of uses:

• Historical Fencing and Sparring (HEMA): If you choose the blunt version, the hammer is suitable for safe combat technique training and sparring with appropriate protective gear.
• Reenactment and Costumes: It will perfectly complement your late medieval infantryman costume at historical events, festivals, or LARPs.
• Collecting: This is an impressive piece for any historical weapons collection, sure to captivate any military history enthusiast.
• Decoration: You can use it as an original and commanding decorative element in historically themed interiors.

A Glimpse into History: The Lucerne Hammer in Action

The Lucerne Hammer was a typical infantry weapon, especially for Swiss mercenaries, from the late 14th to the 17th century. Its design was optimized for combat against armoured opponents. The long spike was used to attack less protected areas and to maintain distance from the enemy. The sharp "beak" was designed to penetrate plate armour, while the hammer side could crush bones and inflict blunt trauma even through armour. The side spikes could be used to trap an opponent's weapon or shield. Thanks to its versatility and effectiveness, the Lucerne hammer was a feared weapon on the battlefields of the late Middle Ages and early modern period, capable of countering both infantry and cavalry by dismounting riders.

An Interesting Historical Fact

The name "Lucerne" refers to the Swiss canton and city of Lucerne, which was one of the centres for the production and use of these weapons. Swiss infantry, renowned for their discipline and combat skills, were often armed with these hammers in combination with halberds and long pikes, forming so-called "hedgehog" formations that were very difficult for contemporary knightly cavalry to overcome.

Assembly and Maintenance of Your Hammer

Assembly

Please note that the originals of these hammers were longer than the maximum permitted length for shipping. If you order the hammer including the shaft, we will deliver it disassembled. However, assembly is straightforward. The delivery includes 6 rivets. You will need to mount the metal head onto the pre-drilled shaft, insert the rivets into the also pre-drilled holes in the metal langets and wooden shaft, and then peen (hammer down) the ends of the rivets. The necessary mounting hardware and shaft fittings are included in the delivery.

Product Care

To keep your war hammer looking its best and functioning for as long as possible, give it regular care:

• Metal Parts: After each use, especially in damp environments or after contact with sweat, thoroughly dry the metal parts. To prevent rust, regularly treat them with a thin layer of conservation oil (e.g., WD-40, Ballistol, or other gun oil).
• Wooden Shaft: Protect the wooden shaft from extreme humidity and direct sunlight to prevent cracking or warping. You can occasionally wipe it with linseed oil or beeswax to rejuvenate and protect the wood.
• Storage: Store the hammer in a dry place. For long-term storage, it is advisable to thoroughly oil the metal parts and possibly wrap them in an oiled cloth.

All stated measurements should be understood as approximate. Due to manual production, slight variations in dimensions and weight may occur.

Safety Instructions

Remember that even though this is a replica, it is still an object that can cause injury. Exercise increased caution when handling it:

• Never aim the hammer at people or animals unless it is controlled sparring with appropriate protective equipment and under the supervision of an experienced person (applies to the blunt version).
• When practicing techniques, always use protective gear (at least a gambeson, gloves, and a historical fencing mask).
• Maintain a safe distance from other people, especially during dynamic movements.
• Store the hammer in a safe place, out of reach of children and untrained individuals.
• Before each use, check the tightness of the head-to-shaft connection and the overall condition of the weapon.