[Allen Johnson]

ok late 9th- early 10th century spears. Viking (Danish) and Anglo-Saxons spears. Is there some where I can get stats on the dimensions of the overall legnth as well as spead head shape and size? Also is the going to be a difference in design/legnth between ones used in a spear wall and ones that were throw? Thanks for all your help!

[D. Bell]

Try looking at http://www.regia.org/spear.htm for some information on spears of the time. According to "Anglo-Saxon Weapons and Warfare" spears ranged in length from 1.6m to 2.8m. There is a wide range in the size of spearheads; most, but by no means all, seem to be between 30cm - 45cm including the socket. Javelins may have barbs, and tend to have smaller blades, in fact it has been suggested that some of the larger 'arrowheads' may in fact have been from javelins. They would also probably tend to be shorter, and lighter overall. Longer or broader spearheads would be better suited for the shieldwall, but there were some spears that could serve adequately as a missile or melee weapon.

Have a look at the attached Petersen's spear typology to get an idea of the designs that would have been in use during the viking era.

[Jean Le-Palud]

There is an interesting chapter about spears in this book: Ancient Weapons in Britain by Logan thompson (pen and sword books www.pen-and-sword.co.uk) Lots of drawings and photographs showing various shapes of spear heads.

[Paul Mortimer]

Not too impressed with Logan Thompson's book -- he makes sweeping statements, tells us about his researches but leaves out all the details!

However, M. J. Swanton's The Spearheads of the Anglo-Saxon Settlements is a solid piece of work -- you will be surprised by the variety. The book is often available on ebay. It is where Logan Thompson got his most reliable evidence from.

Paul

[Allen Johnson]

thanks all! - also where should I look for reliable details on colours of shield paintings?

[Mikko Kuusirati]

You might find "Viking Weapons and Warfare" by Kim Siddorn, of Regia Anglorum, quite useful.

[Jesse Frank]

Or contact the British museum.