Partisan (weapon)

A partisan (also known as a partizan) is a type of polearm that was used in Europe during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.[1][2][3] It consisted of a spearhead mounted on a long wooden shaft, with protrusions on the sides which aided in parrying sword thrusts. The partisan was often used by infantry soldiers, who would use the weapon to fend off cavalry charges. The protrusions on the sides of the spearhead were also useful for catching and trapping an opponent's sword, allowing the user to disarm them. In profile, the head of a partisan may look similar to other types of polearm, such as the halberd, pike, ranseur, spontoon, ox tongue, or spetum.

For the military force, see Partisan (military).
Yeomen of the Guard with partisans

The arrival of practical firearms led to the obsolescence of the partisan and other polearms. Despite this, the weapon continued to be used for many years as a ceremonial weapon. Ceremonial partisans can still be seen in the hands of guards at important buildings or events.

  • An officer's partisan from 1655
    An officer's partisan from 1655
  • Indonesian weapons, including partisans
    Indonesian weapons, including partisans

References
  1. "Melee weapons: Partisan". All Things Medieval. Retrieved 28 October 2014.
  2. "Medieval polearms". Weapons Universe. Retrieved 28 October 2014.
  3. "Definition of partisan (weapon)". Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Retrieved 28 October 2014.


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