Zweihänder
A Zweihänder is a large European two-handed sword, most closely associated with Renaissance Germany and the 16th century.
The Zweihänder is a large European two-handed sword, most closely associated with Renaissance Germany and the 16th century. The term is German for “two-hander” and is also used for related forms such as Doppelhänder and Beidhänder. It is especially linked to German Landsknecht mercenaries and the military traditions of the Holy Roman Empire.
Description
The Zweihänder is a long, heavy two-handed sword. It is generally classified as a type of greatsword or longsword used for powerful cuts and thrusts.
Historical use
The weapon is most closely connected to 16th-century German military forces, especially Landsknecht mercenaries serving in the Holy Roman Empire. It is commonly described as a battlefield weapon from the Renaissance period.
Terminology
Zweihänder literally means “two-hander” in German. Related names include Doppelhänder, Beidhänder, Bihänder, and Bidenhänder, all referring to the same general weapon type.
Form and features
Descriptions of the weapon often mention a long blade, a large grip suitable for two hands, and, in some examples, features such as parrying hooks or a ricasso. Size and weight varied by example.
Key facts
- The Zweihänder is a large sword designed to be wielded with both hands.
- It is most strongly associated with 16th-century German warfare and Renaissance Europe.
- German sources and dictionaries define it simply as a sword used with both hands.
- Historical and reference sources link it to Landsknecht mercenaries in the Holy Roman Empire.
- The term is also used more broadly for other large two-handed swords in German.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Zweihänder?
What does the word mean?
When was it mainly used?
Who used Zweihänders?
Is Zweihänder the same as a greatsword?
Were there other names for it?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zweih%C3%A4nderSupports: Defines Zweihänder as a large two-handed sword used primarily during the 16th century and lists alternate names.
- Wiktionary — https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Zweih%C3%A4nderSupports: Defines Zweihänder as a historical two-handed sword of Renaissance Germany and notes its German meaning.
- DWDS — https://www.dwds.de/wb/Zweih%C3%A4nderSupports: Gives the meaning as a sword that is held with both hands.
- Discovery UK — https://www.discoveryuk.com/military-history/giant-among-swords-the-formidable-zweihander/Supports: Describes the weapon as a 16th-century German greatsword associated with Landsknechte and notes its approximate size and battlefield role.