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Pike (weapon)
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A pike is a long thrusting spear formerly used in European warfare from the Late Middle Ages and most of the early modern period, and wielded by foot soldiers deployed in pike square formation, until
A modern recreation of a mid-17th century company of pikemen in Memmingen, Germany. By that period, pikemen would primarily defend their unit's musket
A modern recreation of a mid-17th century company of pikemen in Memmingen, Germany. By that period, pikemen would primarily defend their unit's musketeers from enemy cavalry.
Re-enactment during the 2009 Escalade in Geneva.
Re-enactment during the 2009 Escalade in Geneva.
First rank with pikes at "charge for horse" static defensive posture, ready to draw swords if needed. Second rank holding their pikes at "charge" for
First rank with pikes at "charge for horse" static defensive posture, ready to draw swords if needed. Second rank holding their pikes at "charge" for delivering thrusts.
First rank with pikes at "charge" (their points projecting forward from the formation front), second rank holding pikes at "port" (upward to avoid inj
First rank with pikes at "charge" (their points projecting forward from the formation front), second rank holding pikes at "port" (upward to avoid injuring front rank friendlies with their points). In real action first 3 – 4 ranks will hold their pikes at "charge", and those behind will hold weapons at "port".
Pike square
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The pike square was a military tactical formation in which 10 rows of men in 10 columns wielded pikes. It was developed by the Swiss Confederacy during the 14th century for use by its infantry.
Pike (weapon)
…thrusting spear formerly used in European warfare from the Late Middle Ages and most of the early modern period, and wielded by foot soldiers deployed in pike square formation, until it was largely replaced by bayonet-equipped muskets. The pike was particularly well known as the primary weapon of Spanish tercios…
Swiss Gevierthaufen at the Battle of Sempach on 9 Jul 1386. Painting by Hans Ulrich Wegmann.
Swiss Gevierthaufen at the Battle of Sempach on 9 Jul 1386. Painting by Hans Ulrich Wegmann.
Pikemen of the Swiss Gevierthaufen in readiness position
Pikemen of the Swiss Gevierthaufen in readiness position