Hello,

A Sword or dagger hanging from a belt in its scabbard is in itself an iconic image of medieval times, but what about hand axes and maces? Certainly their wielders could sometimes do well to suspend those weapons from their belts to keep their hands free, but do we know how they did that, or if they even actually did do it? I imagine that carrying a spiked mace or axe anywhere near your body would be a risk of injuring yourself in case of a fall or tumble. Perhaps they were instead hung on the side of one's steed or in the hands of a squire?

Any enlightenment on this issue would be interesting. I've a fanciful horseman's axe that I ordered from Arms & Armor and I'd love to wear it in my belt while donning a period suit. :)

Thanks,
Emil Andersson

Hi,

I have seen quite a few single handed warhammers and horseman's axes with an intergral belt clip on one side of the handle at the end closest to the hammer/axe head. I have not seen many reproductions incorporating this feature however.

Terry

Axes, batons and so on are usually stuffed under a belt, and worn diagonaly on the back or right hip. This is the most convenient way to carry them around, as it keeps them from gangling around the legs. Weapons up to 1m length can be carried this way, though they tend to snag in doorways and crowds.