Hello everyone. I am wondering whether anyone has reference or links to pics of historical war hammers whose heads depict an animal? I love the Dragon War hammer that A and A used to do, and I'm curious to know whether there are actual examples of this type of thing out there.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Regards,

Michael

Included here is a photo of the antique hammer that inspired the (currently unavailable) Arms & Armor replica. It is Venetian, circa 1380.

---

 Attachment: 38.27 KB

Dragon Warhammer, circa 1380, Venetian

One thing that catches my eye about this hammer is the different tone of both the spike and the striking tip of the hammer itself. Both of these pieces appear darker. Perhaps they are either differentially hardened, or actually different material all-together (perhaps higher-carbon pieces which were forge-welded onto the more elaborate body of the hammer head)?

Or perhaps the difference is purely ornamental?

What are your opinions?

Dustin

It does look like a cap of some kind. I think you might be on to something. There's probably no reason not to make the main part (the "mass") of the head out of mild steel and then cap it with higher carbon sheet steel to help it punch through armour/people.

Thanks so much for the help regarding further details on this war hammer. I sure wish A and A were still making their repro of this.

Does anyone know of other animal/mythical beast depictions in war hammers? I'm interested in whether there are more historical examples. Any ideas about where I could search online for more references to these?

Regards,

Michael

Hey Guys,

Thanks for the information! I purchased the A&A version of that hammer on ebay several months back but I really didn't know anything about it's provenance. Just looking at the pictures that Nathan posted I can say that there are some differences from the original. The sheilds on the sides are different, the dragons tail and "fire" are longer on the repro (proportionally at least) and I'm sure there are some other things. If I manage it I'll see about taking some pictures of the repro if you are interested. I don't have any information about other fanciful designs right off the top of my head the only one that comes to mind immediately is the "fist pick" attributed to Ziska...

Some pictures of the repro

Wow Russ. That looks really cool. keep me in mind if you ever decide to sell this one! (I know-long shot at best)