By the mid 1400?s armor had developed to the point that it was almost impervious to a sword blow. That?s when the knight or man-at-arms would reach for a good solid war hammer. With sound blows armor could be damaged and crushed, sorely affecting movement and the ability to defend one’s self. This hammer has a large end spike as well as small spikes on the sides. The back spike is thick and able to punch through armor. The head is attached with steel langets to the hardwood shaft which is also studded for a secure grip.