Posts: 5,981 Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Wed 14 Dec, 2005 2:04 pm
Oakeshott asserts that the gothic maces were smaller and lighter than both earlier and later maces, so the weight of the AA (as well as MRLs other gothic maces) seems right for the type. Those of ca. 1460-1490 seem to be in the 18-20" range, while the later M2 maces of the 16th c. are in the 24-26" range. That's hanger length! I'm thinking that the long grip of some later examples would allow one to "choke up" as needed to manage the weight. I was surprised to learn that the shafts typically were hollow. So, although it looks like the shafts would add a great deal of weight they're actually lighter than they look, pushing the balance out toward the head. I don't know if AA or MRL use hollow or solid shafts, but that could make a significant difference in handling and impact.
When I get mine, I'm going to ditch the all-black look.