by Martin
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Martin was, for most of his life, the Weaponsmaster of Serpent's Hold, until his death at
92, of an overgrown bunion.
These are the basic element to consider
in assessing a weapon of which all warrior who regard themselves as more than mere
mercenaries should be aware. First and most obvious is the amount of damage that the
weapon may do against unprotected flesh. While 'tis this that first attracts the attention
of the novice, 'tis a deadly mistake to regard it as the sole value of a weapon. While it
may prove devastating indeed as a means of causing damage, a weapon must also serve as
stout shield when engaged in combat.
Hence the second issue to which to pay attention is the amount of
protection that a weapon may offer. Pay close attention to the guard on it, if it be a
blade, or the stoutness of it's wood if it is a polearm. Oft related to this is the wait
of a weapon, for a heavy weapon is more difficult to maneuver to block with, though it may
do more damage to they opponent. If a weapon is too heavy for the wielder to move it
freely, they should choose another and not attempt to prove their prowess by the size of
their sword.
The reach of the weapon both increase its defensive ability, and
renders it more useful in open spaces as it allows attack against the opponent without the
need to close. But be aware of the limitations of thy weapon! For a weapon with great
reach may be useless in close quarter, for lack of space to maneuver it. Should that
dagger-wielding enemy close on thee and they halberd, 'tis best to flee.
Lastly, a factor that must always be considered is the condition of
the weapon. It might be a wondrous magical blade of surpassing sharpness and it may leap
to block blows with a mind of its own. It also might be of such flimsy construction, or
damaged to such an extent, that the first time it clangs against steel, 'twill shatter
into useless shards. Seek ye a good blacksmith should they weapon become damaged, but be
aware that their ministrations may simply make the matter worse.
While mages of some ability oft create magical weapons which enhance
skill, are preternaturally sharp, or incinerate the enemy as they fall, to mind the
greatest gift that they can grant a stout sword is to make it resistant to damage, for
they own skill can make up the difference. Except for the fireball, but if the corpse is
charred, then so will be the possessions, which maketh looting difficult!
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