Should Legolas have been wounded? How did Gimli remain unscathed?

[Thinlómien]

Originally Posted by Alfirin

Well, Gimli has his battle axe damaged when it hits an orc's iron collar at Helm's Heep. If dwarves have as deep an attachment to thier weapons as is usually made out this might feel like being wounded to Gimli.

Gimli himself (not just his weapon) was wounded in the battle of Hem's Deep: he got a (minor) wound on the head.

Like Morwen, I see no reason why Gimli should have died. To be realistic and nit-picky, it is far more astonishing that all the Hobbits survived having no military training or experience and being used to simple and peacuful life. I know; Hobbits were far tougher than they seemed, but it is still a bit odd. But that of course is part of the magic of the book and the Hobbits themselves. It would be a grim book if one of the Hobbits died or was seriously wounded.

As to the original Legolas question, maybe because it would have been unnecessary, as Morwen already said. Also, it would have taken attention from Frodo and Sam's wounds and the fact that Gandalf perished.