Do you know of any dual function weapon? One of the common double function weapons is the halberd. Let’s find out how to forge a halberd.
The halberd is a weapon that is suitable for use in battlefields. This weapon is a combination of a battle-ax and a spear. The halberd has a two-handed pole joined to the battle-ax and the spearhead.
Besides, the use of the halberd started in the 14th century and reigned till the 16th century. The halberdiers used this weapon.
This weapon appears to have a complicated structure which makes people think it is very difficult to forge. But it is easy to forge this weapon if you follow certain procedures. You should follow a simple and straightforward procedure to get a good result.
Instructions on How to Forge a Halberd
Step 1: Create a Template
Before you start forging your halberd, you need to create a template. A template is a drawing (3D or 2D) that gives a visual representation of an object or a person.
It is easier to see a picture of what you intend to forge than forging from an abstract idea. The template will make the forging easier by giving you a visual understanding of what you want to forge.
Step 2: Get a Block of Steel
There are different ways of forging a halberd. Here is a simple and straightforward way to forge it. To forge a halberd using this method, you have to use a block of steel as your forging material.
The block of steel should be very large as you will forge every part of the halberd from it. You can get the block of steel from unused workshop materials or local stores.
Step 3: Heat the Block of Steel
You can’t forget a block of steel without heating it. You have to heat the block of steel in a forge before you start forging with it. Place the steel in a forge for a while until it becomes red hot.
At this stage, the steel block is more malleable than it was when cold. The hotter the steel, the more malleable and easier it is to forge.
Step 4: Start Forging
After heating your steel block, you should proceed to forge with it. When forging, you should put the block back into the forge occasionally to reheat it. As long as the steel block is hot, you can forge it into the halberd’s shape. Then follow the process outlined below to forge your blade;
Quick Steps
- You should know that you will forge the block into three parts; the spearhead, the ax head, and the shaft. The spearhead at one end and the handle or shaft at the other end while the ax head is in the middle.
- Beat out a part of the steel for the spearhead.
- You should make use of a large hammer in case you do not have a machine for hammering.
- Shape the spearhead into a very pointed blade by hitting the steel block continuously with a hammer while hot.
- Beat out the handle from the other end of the steel block. You should make sure the steel block is hot, and you are forging according to your template.
- Readjust the shape of the handle until it suits your taste.
- You have the middle part left for the ax.
- Beat the block to a flat shape.
- Carve out the shape of an ax on the block using a chisel, wheel cutter, jigsaw, hacksaw, or any other cutting tool.
- Check out the forged product to see if it needs correction. If there is a need for correction, you should correct it according to your template.
You should always forge while it is hot to reduce stress and wastage of energy.
Step 5: Grind the Surface and Edges of the Halberd
After forging the halberd, you should grind the edges and the surface with a grinder. You can make use of a belt grinder or angle grinder to grind the weapon.
Also, you can use sandpapers, but it will take you a lot of time to complete it. You can use the grinder to sharpen the edges of the ax and the spear. Files are also good sharpening tools.
FAQs on How to Forge a Halberd
Question
Is halberd still in use for battles?
Due to civilization, the halberd is not as useful as it was in the 14th to 16th centuries. Its reign stopped in the 16th century, passing its legacy to the next centuries. Some sets of people still make use of the halberd while others do not make use of it.
Question
Can I classify a halberd as an antique?
Classifying a halberd as an antique is not generally acceptable. Some people might see it as an antique due to some reasons, while others might see it as a weapon just for its function. It can be found in old war museums.
Question
How efficient is the halberd in battles?
The halberd is a very efficient weapon in battle. The weapon is useful on the battlefield as an ax with a long shaft and also a spear. Its blows deal a great deal of damage on the opponent.
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Warnings
When forging a halberd, you should take note of certain precautions and practice these precautionary measures to ensure your safety. Some of the precautions you should take note of are;
- You should always ensure you follow forging safety rules and guidelines.
- You should make sure you dispose of damaged tools.
- Do not handle hot metals with your bare hands.
- You should always wear protective clothing and attire.
- Make sure you clean and tidy up your working environment.
