Ox tongue spear

Longues De Beauf

Ox tongue spear or langue de boeuf is a type of polearm that was popular in the late Middle Ages. It is characterized by its broad, leaf-shaped blade, which resembles the tongue of an ox, hence the name. The ox tongue spear was primarily used by infantry soldiers for thrusting and slashing at opponents, both on foot and mounted. Its design allowed for versatile combat moves, making it a formidable weapon on the battlefield.

Design and Features

The ox tongue spear typically measures between 6 to 8 feet in length, with a wide, flat blade that tapers to a sharp point. The blade itself is often 2 to 3 feet long, allowing for both cutting and thrusting actions. The cross-section of the blade is usually diamond-shaped or lenticular, which helps in penetrating armor. The weapon's shaft was made from sturdy wood, such as ash or oak, providing both strength and flexibility.

Usage

The ox tongue spear was used across Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries. It was a versatile weapon that could be used in various combat scenarios. Infantrymen favored it for its reach and effectiveness against both foot soldiers and cavalry. The broad blade was not only capable of thrusting but could also be used to slash, making it effective against lightly armored opponents. In addition, the ox tongue spear could be used to dismount cavalrymen, as the wide blade could hook or pull riders from their horses.

Tactical Role

In military formations, soldiers armed with ox tongue spears often formed the front lines, engaging the enemy's first wave of attack. Their long reach allowed them to strike at opponents before they could close in for hand-to-hand combat. When used in conjunction with other polearms and missile weapons, such as the longbow or crossbow, the ox tongue spear contributed to a layered defense that could repel advancing troops effectively.

Decline and Legacy

The ox tongue spear began to decline in popularity by the late 16th century, as firearms became more prevalent on the battlefield. The development of more effective gunpowder weapons reduced the practicality of polearms in combat. However, the ox tongue spear remains a symbol of the medieval infantryman's arsenal and is often featured in historical reenactments and medieval weaponry collections.

See Also

• Polearm
• Halberd
• Pike
• Military history of the Middle Ages