Origin: Northern Europe
Year: ~500 AD
Type: Throwing axe
Weight: ~1.3 lb (600 g)
Length: ~16-18 in (40-45 cm) haft, 5-6 in (14-15 cm) along the head
A throwing weapon, the francisca (or francesca) derives its name from the Franks, the Germanic tribes most heavily associated with its use. The francisca was used as a thrown weapon in a manner similar to how the Romans fielded the pilum. At the beginning of a battle, Frankish warriors would throw their franciscas on the cue of a signal. This volley of axes served to destroy and render useless the shields of their enemies, opening the way for the Frankish fighter to close and engage with a sword or even another axe. Even if the edge of the franciscas axe did not find its target, the heft of axe would still be able to inflict injury upon any persons unfortunate enough to be a Frank's target.
Though most notably associated with the Franks, the francisca was fielded by other Germanic peoples, including the Anglo-Saxons and multiple surviving examples of the weapon have been found in the United Kingdom. The weapon also featured in the design of the personal emblem of Philippe Pétain and (unofficially) his Vichy French government.
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8 years, 7 months ago
06 Jun 2016 00:17 CEST
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