Lances

The term "lance" originally referred to spears wielded by footmen and cavalry, eventually only to cavalry spears.

These lances were somewhat longer, and heavier, than the average spear. The increase in size, while still maintaining a manageable weight, made them fairly easy to throw from horseback and inflict great injury on one's opponents. Lances vary between cultures and eras.

Generally, the lance is a long shaft of tough wood, usually ash, with an iron head with cutting edges and a sharp point to pierce armor.

The larger lances, those that are not thrown, are primarily used for sporting events, but the smaller ones still hold a place on some battlefields.