Weapons?

[NyteSky]

Ok, Gandalf had Glamdring and his staff, Frodo had Sting, Legolas had his bow, Gimli his ax, etc. What would you choose? What weapon? Swords seem to be the most popular, but I'm sure some people prefered spears or things like that.
I go for archery personally. But in case any enemies get to close I want a nice elven sword too. A saber probably. Anyone else?

[Joy]

I know that I am no good with the bow, can't even get the arrow from the strings. But I can hold my own with a sword. Had an opportunity to fight with a frind from SCA. I did okay.

Now, I would perfer a sword and a good knife. While distracing my enemy with parries and blows, I'd stab him with the knife. Hey, just want to protect myself smilies/tongue.gif

[TarElendil]

A spear.
sword girt at my side too, just incase smilies/tongue.gif

[Alkanoonion]

My preferred weapon would be the staff,
It can be used for walking, it is a symbol of authority and it can be used for protection.
smilies/smile.gif

[The Silver-shod Muse]

Magic thunderbolts, please. smilies/wink.gif

Just kidding. Really I think I'd use a crossbow, even though I don't know how. You people are lucky to have gotten to sword-fight and learn archery. Around here, that sort of thing lies somewhere between outdated and not yet recognized as a form of appreciation/recreation. Everybody carries guns.

[Veritas]

I would say a sword, a bow is also very handy, but a sword is, I think, most usefull.

A staff is a good weapon, although you can't kill an orc by kicking him with a staff, you most do first a 'tric' and takes a lot of time.

[ June 19, 2002: Message edited by: Veritas ]

[lathspell]

I'd go for a nice Dwarven-made, double-handed axe. Maybe a crossbow as well.

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

I'd probably use a sword and a halbred (sp?)

[TarElendil]

do you mean a halberd? those would be pretty kool smilies/smile.gif

[The-Elf-Herself]

I would definitely choose a short sword, a long knife, and a couple of throwing daggers. Hey, can't be too careful. smilies/wink.gif Joy that is awesome to be able to sword fight. I'd love to be able to take real sword-fighting lessons but I have to settle for fencing. I guess it's better than nothing. smilies/smile.gif

[Eärendil]

I would choose a bow and a sword. I love the bow we have at home, and I am quite good with it too. But I have yet to find a wodden one, with arrows. Anyone cares to help me? Though, I am dangerous as h*ll with a sword, I "swing" it round and nearly hit people all the time. I will have a sword at the role-play I am going to next week, luckily enough, my character is supposed to be clumsy with it... smilies/rolleyes.gif smilies/evil.gif
I really like small knives too, but a bow and sword is enough I think, though an axe would be cool too...hehe.

[Starbreeze]

Hmm, Bow for me, as well as a knife. I hope that by the time they get close enough for me to use the knife, they'll have a few arrows sticking out of them. Aslo *says the coward* with a bow, you don't get so close to the fighting, and you're less likely to have your head chopped off with a sword or axe, arrow wounds I can handle - swords I cannot.

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

Where do you learn to sword fight?!

[NyteSky]

Oh yeah! Thowing daggers! How could I forget those? I need at least 3. Thanks for reminding me The-Elf-Herself. And maybe a dirk or something for my left hand when I use my sword. (which I wish I actually had and knew how to use)

[lathspell]

am I going to be the only one to use an axe in this company? Maybe I should change my name to Gimli than. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Leto]

"where do you learn to sword fight" *s* I imagine most people here haven't, except in their imagination, or role playing games *s* So this is more a question of 'which weapons do you think are the coolest' as opposed to what weapons people know how to use. *s* Aren't too many around nowadays that know how to really wield a battle axe, let alone a double bladed one. I know I don't. smilies/smile.gif SCA is cool...but what most of them do is 'fantasy' fighting, with very little real training, in the traditional sense.

Right now, I'd have a staff. with perhaps some sai tucked in my belt. Once I learn more with the straightsword, I'd take that. Kwan Dao (halberd) is nice smilies/smile.gif but a little too cumbersome for my taste...the broadsword is also a nice weapon, but I really like the thrusting techniques available with the straightsword, it's more to my 'style'.

Can you imagine a shaolin trained fighter in the world of Tolkien? *lol* It would be the coolest kung fu movie. "Shaolin Challenges Mordor", "Nine Deadly Nazgul", "36 Crazy Fists of Rivendell"

[Daniel Telcontar]

I would if possible learn how to use a longbow, since they can pierce an armor at 200 meters distance. If you know about the battle of Agincourt, then you also know of how superior longbows is to other bows and crossbows.

But I would definetly learn how to use a sword. Those who are well made are also well balanced and can be used to make many tricks and smart moves. They are in my definition the best melee weapon, since you can unlike with spears hit enemies close up, and unlike e.g. flails swords can quickly be pulled back to make a defensive move.

[Laiedheliel]

A longbow and a knife for me, please. I honestly couldn't say that putting a sword in my hands is a good idea, but I imagine that I might be able to hold my own against someone without too much training...keyword there is imagine. smilies/wink.gif

Longbows are useful in many different situations, and usually when the longbow falls out of usefulness, that's when the knife comes in. smilies/evil.gif

[Artilien]

I would have a sword and bow... im not very good with any weapon but i'd learn smilies/wink.gif

[ October 11, 2002: Message edited by: Artilien ]

[GreatWarg]

Well, in RPGs, I usually play a wolf. Even had a wolf weilding a sword? Of course not. smilies/rolleyes.gif But if I did have any weapons, a straight sword would do just fine. I prefer close combat, rather than using a bow because those are preferably to distance fighting. Only Legolas is dumb enough to try to shoot Orcs in close combat with an arrow. Though I suppose you could pop out someone's eyes with it.

And curved blades, like Orc schmiters (sp?) are better made for slicing off heads, but I think it'd be too annoying when you're trying to parry blows or unsheathing and re-sheathing it. smilies/biggrin.gif

And as for an axe, I don't think I could carry a heavy battle axe. I'm not exactly a stout Dwarf, okay?

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

ok, for one, it's not dumb to shoot an arrow at close range, you do more damage. And scimitars are cool, but they wouldn't really be sheathed, I think it might be better to tuck into a sash. And someone metioned the Battle of Agincourt. That's in France right? Well, anyway, longbows really did help in the Battle of Hastings (William the Conquerer invading England) against the Saxon short bows.

[gayare'dion]

what about lances ? their a more heavy type of weapon like a battle axe.
id use a short sword, with some knives for backup

[Tarthang]

A bow, for attacking from a distance.
A spear to charge with to close the distance.
A sword (bastard) to go toe-to-toe with.
And finally, a dagger, to replace the sword if necessary, situations where stealth is necessary, and as an all around utility tool.
And if I really wished to be over-encumbered by all these weapons, I'd add in either a couple of throwing axes or knives for a secondary ranged attack at closer ranges before charging.

Just as a side note, a staff and spear IMO are pretty much the same, except the spear has the dagger on the end, making it better for stabbing/jabbing with.
Also, a long, long time ago, Dragon Magazine had an article titled the "well Rounded Fighter" which went into greater detail on weapon choices which I briefly outlined above. BTW, the article is in an issue dating from the mid to late 80's & am not able to give further, precise documentation, as I gave my copy away to friend many years ago.

[Daniel Telcontar]

At the battle of Agincourt, the english were outnumbered with only 200 longbowmen and 100 footsoldiers. The french attacked with 1500 knights, who were all shoot before they could attack. Then the crossbowmen came, but their weapons could not fire at long range. So they were also shoot.

After the battle, 2000 french soldiers were dead, and only 80 english. I think that proves how superior the longbow is to other ranged weapons.

[Gimli Son Of Gloin]

I would use an axe of course! Passed down by my father, passed down to him from his father, back to my great great grandfather. Leave the bows to the elves and the staves to the wizzards, the sword to the men. I use my axe!

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

We actually talked about the superiority of the longbow in British Lit class.

[Raefindel]

I don't think I'm remotely strong enough to use a sword. It would take someone only a few inches taller than me to overpower me (and that constitutes 90% of the world, as I'm only 5 ft tall).

I am therefore forced by unfair advantage to use a bow.

[Daniel Telcontar]

Aldagrim, that sounds interesting. What conclusions did you make?

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

English bows were made of yew, which is the best material because of the way it bends (not too stiff or flexible). Longbows, which were used by the Normans, went further than Saxon bows.

[Daniel Telcontar]

have you seen the movie Robin Hood with Kevin Costner? A merchant appears, with a wagon of longbows. They demonstrate by piercing a helmet. A movie with good scenes.

[White Knight]

I would have a strong bow and a long,light sword.

[ June 25, 2002: Message edited by: White Knight ]

[Ruthwen]

Hmmm... well, assuming I'd actually be able to use any of them, I'd have to say a sword. A nice, long, slightly curved, light, shiny, pretty sword. smilies/smile.gif

[NazgulNumber10]

M14 carbine with m206 gernade launcher. just kidding. I would go with a bladed bow(the elf in my story has one) It's basically a normal bow with some long, thin blades in the upper and lower limbs. It would be a four curve made in turkish fasion. Yes I do weapons encyclopedia and read it often. Poisoned arrows too.
watch out harry potter. (Draws and nocthes arrow.)
smilies/evil.gif

ps I'd have 2 short swords also.
smilies/evil.gif

[ June 25, 2002: Message edited by: NazgulNumber10 ]

[NazgulNumber10]

maybe a katana too.
smilies/evil.gif

[Raefindel]

have you seen the movie Robin Hood with Kevin Costner? A merchant appears, with a wagon of longbows. They demonstrate by piercing a helmet.

Wasn't that Robin Hood with Patrick Bergin? Maybe it was in both.

[ June 25, 2002: Message edited by: Raefindel ]

[Daniel Telcontar]

Well, it is for sure in the Robin Hood with Kevin Costner. I haven't seen the other movie.

[Nice-Smeagol]

I would choose a crossbow and two short swords.
Shoot them then Chop their heads off!
hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha

[Rosa_Baggins]

I actually take archery leasons so bow and arrow for me!!!

[Calencoire]

Hmmm, well, my top choice would be an Elven bow, but in case of desperate measures, a sword and dagger would be nice at my side.

[Morquesse]

I'd pick a Sword, a slang-shot(is that what the're called? The thing that David used to kill the giant? I've heard that if you know how to use them, the're more accerate them a Bow & Arrow) and I'm learning to use Sais, so I'll use those too. smilies/biggrin.gif
~Morquesse

[ June 26, 2002: Message edited by: Morquesse ]

[Aosama, the Wandering Star]

Hmmm... I'd like a light sword, and a longbow. Of course, this in the fantastical world where I could actually *hold* any of these... smilies/wink.gif

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

a slang-shot(is that what the're called? The thing that David used to kill the giant? I've heard that if you know how to use them, the're more accerate them a Bow & Arrow)

A slingshot is the cord between the wishbone shaped stick. David used a sling. The strip of leather and pouch for throwing the stone. And they are powerful.

[Tar-Haydon]

A very pointy stick. Possibly painted red to make it look scarier.

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

Welcome Tar-Haydon! Love your sig

[The Silver-shod Muse]

The Central Asian compound bow, or Hungarian/Mongol bow, is superior to the longbow in both distance, force and maneuverability. smilies/wink.gif.

I love the Mongol culture and history, but I understand that those bows take two people to string because the arms are bent backwards to shoot, which is why it wouldn't be my weapon of choice.

[ June 27, 2002: Message edited by: The Silver-shod Muse ]

[legolas991610]

Weapons

When choosing a weapon you have to take into consideration you situation. Are you a solo traveller or part of a party smilies/smile.gif? What is your class (nobility/Peasant), what is your style? Below I have broken down weapons.

Daggers – Used by commonly as a secondary or tertiary weapon. Archers would often double team opponents on the battlefield with on distracting and one slitting the throat or attacking from behind. Used, as a pocketknife would be today. (e.g. Swiss Army Knife)

Short Swords – Used by early cavalry as a primary or secondary weapon alternating with a short spear. A backup weapon for almost every type of warrior and an effective weapon.

Long/ 2 Handed Swords – The nobility’s weapon. Expensive to make and were customized for the user. Could take down charging cavalry and batter down armour and shields

Stabbing Spear – This shot 5-7’ spear was used to stab an enemy from a distance. Could outreach a sword and was used my lower ranks. Also thrown.

Long Spear – Also includes pikes and lances. Used to discourage cavalry charges. A good example would be the Phalanxes pf ancient Greece. Too long to be used effectively by a solitary person.

Crossbow – And expensive version of the bow, that is more powerful but less range. The upper classes bow

Bows (all types) – Peasants weapon (of war, used by upper classes for hunting) medium to long ranges.

Axes – strong weapon, all classes. Well balanced to reduce tiring and very powerful

Clubs (all types, pointed and non pointed) – Used to Bash, no finesse here. All classes, Higher the class greater the cost and quality of the weapon.

When choosing a weapon you have to look at what it is that you are trying to do with it. Few of the races in Tolkien’s world cold have carried more than 2 of the larger weapons and the plausibility of their effectiveness decreases with more weapons. Most races would have trained their warriors in different weapons but not more than one or two. By doing that they produce better fighters. I would have chosen a Long Sword, a small wooden club and a dagger. I would have a medium shield I carry on my back(similar but not the same as Boromir)

I am tired or I would have written more on the weapons. If you want to discuss the merits of weapons with me, I would love to.

[ June 27, 2002: Message edited by: Flanagan ]

[The Silver-shod Muse]

Very cool Flanagan! And welcome to the Downs! RIP. I would love to talk weapons with you, but I'm afraid that you'd leave me in the dust in no time due to my insufferable ignorance. smilies/rolleyes.gif

[Cimmerian]

A Barbarian longsword. Well crafted metal. 4'6 foot long, twin edged blade fitted firmly on to a swivelling neck and foot long handle. Around 90 - 100 pounds in weight. Strong enough to chop down a pine tree in one swipe.

A large battle axe too, strapped upon my back, weighing 140 pounds. 4 foot handle and a double bit, twin edged axe head. Foot and a half high and 3 feet wide.

Assortment of daggers and darts.

I would defintely travel alone but also do well with small groups. I scoff at all those class distinctions. When you live by the sword, all men are equal.

smilies/wink.gif

[Shadow of Udûn]

Narsil's don't kill people, people kill people.

[Thinlaithion]

Flanagan, I'd love to talk weapons with you any time, they are a subject that I find very interesting.

Well, as an elf, I would carry a longbow, possibly from Lothlorien. I would have a short sword at either side, a couple of daggers at assorted places, and a few throwing axes and knives. You can't be too prepared for war. smilies/wink.gif Also, in my shoe, I would have a blade (anyone see Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) which would come out when I needed it for up close combat.

[the phantom]

I like spears. Good reach, good for blocking, and can be thrown. Then of course I'd need a back-up. (Although, if I was fighting a particularly mean guy, like a balrog, I wouldn't settle for anything less than a nuke)

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

Flanagan, where did you get all that info? is there a site somewhere? btw, welcome to the Downs

[Aldagrim Proudfoot]

Flanagan, where did you get all that info? is there a site somewhere? btw, welcome to the Downs

I'm a Shade of Carn Dum, now!

[rutslegolas]

i think if i am travelling in a group :-
i would like a long bow,a short sword(backup weapon),and a spear

if i travel alone then bows are a nuisance so:-

i would have a doublehanded sword ,a axe on the back , and a shield(very important for lone warriors)

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Ah, an old opinion topic has popped up that was lurking in the depths of the Books forum! I'm moving it to the Novices and Newcomers forum, where those are now placed.

[Kransha]

Well, what I'd want is a mace, namely Grond, Hammer of the Underworld. Of course, I'd have to have the strength of the Valar to weild such a weapon. Another good weapon is Gothmog's Flaming Whip. It's stylish AND pyromaniac-friendly.

Of course, if I were a simple being, not superpower endowed, I would have a long thin sword, similar to a rapier but not the same. In real life, I'm pretty good with fencing weapons and bows and arrows. I'd be better with a short bow, since long bows require an insane level of strength, which I, unfortunately, lack.

[Ashton]

Well, I personally would love to learn archery. I have always had a preferance to a bow and arrow over anyhting else. I think that they are (mostly) only good for long range fighting. So you need something to back you up.

For close range fighting I really couldn't choose between a sword or an ax. They both could probably do the same job. It would really depend on wich one I could find of a better quality. A qualit weapon can be a difference between life and death in a battle.

[Finwe]

Oh, archery is a definite must! I'm already learning it, and I'm a pretty good archer, so I think that I'll stick with bows for long-range fighting.

For short-range fighting, I'm kind of "ok" with a sword, so I'll stick with a light, Elven sword. It's probably going to be more easily maneuverable for someone my size (I'm 5'2" and 125 lbs.) rather than a broadsword.

[steve]

I would most lilley wield these:
Cho-ka-nu (chineese invented repeating crossbow load a clip of bolts and crank the crank and it fires repeadadly)
Halberd
Scimatar

[Finwe]

Hmm... that cho-ka-nu thing sounds interesting. Now only if they made a recurve that fired like that. *sigh*

[Imladris]

I must say I have always fancied archery (of course my love for elves has had nothing to do with that smilies/rolleyes.gif ), but the dagger has also appealed to me. smilies/smile.gif Swords are cool, but I sucked at fencing so...

But daggers and bows rock!

[Finwe]

Definitely!


I would think that you would have to be remarkably swift to stay alive fighting with a dagger. I'd prefer the longer reach of a sword, or perhaps one of the Elven blades that the crew designed for the movies. You know, the ones that look like a cross between a spear and a sword. I like the reach of those and the curved blade, and also the fact that they're not as unwieldy as spears in close quarters.

[Althern]

I'd probably use a sword and a halbred (sp?)

Certainly, Halbarad and his two score of Dunedain would be my weapon of choice.

[Kransha]

Well, if we're just talking about weapons in general....

-A Nice Old Fashion Gladius never lets you down (http://www.imperialweapons.com/swords/gladius/08caesar.html)

-If I were an orc, here's the sword for me (http://www.barrettcustomknives.com/fantasy/orc-cleaver.htm)

-And, of course, there's this which sorta speaks for itself (http://www.by-the-sword.com/acatalog/images/uc1239.JPG)

-If I were a dwarf, laddie! (http://www.by-the-sword.com/acatalog/images/9-031.JPG)

I've got more, but I won't post them now.
That's most of the ideal choices. *drools*

[steve]

A Halbard, other then being a Dunedain is a long polearm with an ax head on the end and most of the time a spike on the other end, used by supporting infintry against calvry along with pikes

[Elassar 516]

I am the kind of person who maintains that there is no such thing as to many weapons, at the very least I would cary:
A long sword, a short sword, a good hunting bow (for hinting orcs that is), a knife (somwhat like the one Celeborn gives Aragorn), and half a dozen throwing daggers.
For defense, some sort of chain mail, preferably made by dwarves and I would have no objections to having it made out of Mithril, a shield, I've always fancied Boromirs, and of course you can never go wrong with having a bodygaurd, especialy since I have know idea how to actualy use any of those weapons.

[The Mushroom]

A sword! A nice glowing one! Or maybe a bow and some arrows (I'm not too keen on hand-to-hand combat). Or maybe a nice, hard cooking pot!:D