Norman Knights question...

[Harry Faversham]

I've just gleaned a box of 28mm plastic Norman Knights armed with swords and spears. I've been wondering did mounted Normans carry axes as I fancied adding a couple if they did?

[Mr.J]

After a cursory google search I found this:



I personally wouldn't object.

I'm sure I have seen contemporary images from Scandinavia/Northern Europe with knights using axes so it certainly isn't unheard of.

[rumacara]

Its not common to see norman cavalry miniatures with axes but they certainly would use axes in battle.

Just remember King Arthur film when the cavalry charged the saxons at the end or just watch Warlord with Charlton Heston and you will see normans mounted with axes.

[Damas]

If your Knight can afford a horse with all the extras, he can afford a sword. The single handed axe is a poorer man's weapon as it contains less metal.

In conclusion, whatever you think looks cool! 

[fastolfrus]

Might be worth checking the Bayeux tapestry

[Mr.J]

I had a quick look at the tapestry before I turned up that last image but couldn't see anything useful.

[Truscott Trotter]

That looks like a 2 handed axe for use dismounted unless he is an extremely strong Norman 

[Dr. Zombie]

An axe is not a very good weapon to use from horseback. It has a quite short range and can only be used for hacking. But I would say the rule of cool is very much in effect here. So go for it.

[charla51]

I like the way 'the King Arthur film' and Charlton Heston are quoted as if primary sources!

A two-handed axe could be used single-handedly; it would be less effective of course.

[sukhe_bator]

The Danish axe (long hafted) is for use on foot and required skill to wield, hence it was used by experienced Huscarls and household infantry. Cavalry, particularly lighter cavalry in the Middle East and Asia evolved 'saddle axes', which are short hafted and designed to be swung underarm at infantry (kinda like a polo swing with attitude) which introduced the blade usually just under the chin in an uppercut with gruesomely effective results....
The illustration is of a commander who was more likely to dismount to fight. The illustrator has obviously seen the image of William and Odo on horseback with their Mace and Club resting on their shoulders depicted in the Bayeaux tapestry...
I agree the sword was a higher status weapon and would have been favoured more by higher ranking knights...

[Commander Carnage]

Go with what you want they are your minis. I'm sure at least a few carried an axe on horseback.

[sukhe_bator]

Whosoever used it would be a real bruiser, a Norman 'Ray Winstone' gangsta or 'Mountain' character certainly not to be messed with!