The longsword (also referred to as a warsword) was a common name used in reference to long bladed, double edged, and straight
hilted swords throughout the Middle Ages in Europe. The longsword was the weapon most commonly used by European knights
during the crusades. It was designed to be wielded by those with strength and could be thrust, used to slash, and even crush
armor. Larger than a common or short sword but smaller than a bastard sword, the longsword was an effective weapon for
centuries in Europe. Searches for double edged swords have been directed to this page. The term double edged sword is
descriptive only of the weapon's blade, not the weapon design itself.
An interesting note: the expression "to pummel someone" derives from the practice in close quarters combat of striking an
opponent with the pommel (round knob at the end of the sword opposite the point) of the weapon hilt. Pummeling an individual
was also a non-lethal form of attack and was common practice when trying to break up a fracus.