Which is better sword or mace?

It should be noted that maces are effective against a very specific kind of armor: plate armor. Against mail or leather armor, a mace was far less effective than an axe or even a sword/spear thrust. But against plate armor, the mace was the only effective one-handed choice.

What were maces used for?

Mace – This Medieval weapon was an armor-fighting weapon. Used as a close contact weapon and also used from horseback. The shaft was made of either wood or metal. The lethal head was made of stone, iron, bronze or steel – with flanged or knobbed additions.

Are maces effective?

During the Middle Ages metal armour such as mail protected against the blows of edged weapons. Solid metal maces and war hammers proved able to inflict damage on well armoured knights, as the force of a blow from a mace is great enough to cause damage without penetrating the armour.

How effective are swords?

They were particularly effective against cavalry, so long as the cavalry attacked from the front. Where swords remained particularly effective is as a cavalry weapon, particularly the sabre. Light and one-handed, you could slash at your enemies from above while still controlling your horse.

How effective was the mace in medieval times?

Western Europe During the Middle Ages metal armour such as mail protected against the blows of edged weapons. Solid metal maces and war hammers proved able to inflict damage on well armoured knights, as the force of a blow from a mace is great enough to cause damage without penetrating the armour.

How were maces used in the Middle Ages?

Maces were used throughout the Middle Ages, as they were one of the more effective weapons for close quarters combat with a heavily armored opponent. Ceremonial maces can, and were used by, certain officers in legislative bodies as symbols of their power and status.

Are maces lethal?

Apart from blows to the head or spine, mace and hammers aren’t likely to kill. Single-handed ones could knock unconscious through a helmet and break limbs – at least from horseback – but that’s about the extent of their effectiveness.