Polearms — Halberds, Spears, and Glaives for LARP

A polearm or poleweapon is a close-combat weapon consisting of a long shaft, often wood, with a steel head, such as a blade, spike, axe, halberd or hook, at the end. The added reach, and ease of use, made polearms, and especially spears, one of the most common and used weapons, across both ages, eras and cultures.

In LARP and cosplay, polearms keep that commanding presence but are built in safe foam construction. At Epic Armoury, each polearm is made from latex-free foam around a glass fibre core, giving you the look of historic weapons without the risk. They are perfect for players who want dramatic reach in battle or performers who need a weapon that dominates the stage.

Why Players Prefer Polearms to Other Foam Weapons

Flashy curving swords and axes are flashy, but polearms dominate the battlefield in their own way. Length gives you control of the distance, so you can hit first or hold a line. They also give your character instant presence—people do not disregard a fighter coming in with a halberd over their shoulder.

Tactical fighters prefer polearms, but they also are wonderful stage pieces. Every thrust and sweep is dramatic, so they're as much stage props as they are fighting instruments.

Creating Characters That Leap Off the Page With Polearms

Polearms are not merely weapons; they are symbols. A halberd tells you that you are a disciplined guard. A glaive gives you the look of a hard-pressed mercenary. A long spear makes you a soldier standing firm in formation.

In fantasy, polearms do more than one thing. Elves wield slim glaives that echo their delicacy, while orcs wield deadly bardiches. A ceremonial partisan can give a noble or priestly character the seriousness of a guard or retainer. Not choosing a polearm is simply a matter of reach—it's an issue of identity.

 

From Spears to Halberds: Polearm Types You Can Use

There are numerous types of polearms, each with their own silhouette and background:

• Spears and javelins: timeless and simple, for thrusting and for line fighting.
  
  

• Halberds: medieval favorites that combine axe blades and spear tips, traditional as city guards.
  
  

• Glaives and bardiches: long curved sticks with blades, flashy in design and swing.
  
  

• Partisans and bills: ceremonial or practical, with spear tips and side blades for added thrust.
  
  

In foam, every model is safe to wield but has the looks of a real battlefield weapon.

How Foam Construction Makes Polearms Safe to Use in Combat

Since polearms are longer than most weapons, safety is paramount. Epic Armoury polearms feature latex-free foam blades over a glass fibre core, providing flexibility for safety and stability for control. Tip-reinforced tips reduce the risk of accidents during thrusts, and hand-painted finishes give you the detail you desire without sacrificing durability.

The result is a weapon you can wield in confidence at LARP battles, Ren Faires, or theater performances. They're designed to be used many times without sacrificing the safety of you and your fellow players.

Choosing Polearms That Fit Your Character and Event Rules

Choosing a polearm isn't purely about looks—it's where you're going to be using it.

• Formation fighting: a spear or pike makes sense.
  
  

• Duels or entrances: glaives and halberds add flair.
  
  

• Reach vs control: long polearms give more distance but require skill, while shorter spears are faster and easier for beginners.
  
  

Event rules also matter. Some systems limit maximum polearm length, so make sure to review before showing up with the biggest weapon on the field. And consider theme too—choose a polearm that fits the story your character is telling.

What It Feels Like to Fight and Perform With Polearms

Polearms revolutionize movement. The extra reach gives you time to strike or defend before someone closes up on you, yet exposes you as they close distance in order to get inside your guard. This generates excitement during fighting, and thus you have to use positioning and coordination.

For action, polearms are even better. Their sweeping curves and extended reach provide dramatic visuals that hold an audience. On camera, in duels, or as choreographed combat, polearms amplify every movement.

Materials and Construction Behind Epic Armoury Polearms

All polearms in the set aim to balance immersion with longevity:

• Foam blades: latex-free, flexible, repeat-safe impact.
  
  

• Glass fibre cores: rigid and enduring, deformation-resistant.
  
  

• Strengthened thrusting tips: keep combat secure during lunges.
  
  

• Painted finishes: woodgrain hafts, metallic blade, and weathered details.
  
  

This combination makes polearms genuine close-up and strong enough to use for decades of action.

Polearm Care Between Battles and Performances

Polearms are easy to maintain, yet they value care. Store them flat in a dry place and avoid leaning them against walls for long periods, which can warp the core. Clean the blade and haft with a dry wipe after usage in outdoor battles. Spray foam lightly with silicone spray to make it soft and long-lasting.

Following these simple regimens, your polearm will be a reliable companion for years of combat.

Quick Details

• Types: spears, halberds, glaives, bardiches, partisans
  
  

• Construction: reinforced tips, fiberglass cores, foam
  
  

• Features: painted details, sturdy build, safe reach
  
  

• Use: LARP combat, Renaissance fairs, cosplay, stage

Polearms FAQ — Players' Frequently Asked Questions

Are polearms safe to utilize within LARP combat?
Yes. They feature foam and reinforced cores and tips, designed specifically for safe use. Though remember, we are still playing a contact sport.

Can I use polearms at Renaissance fairs?
Yes—they're fantastic for costume and stage use as well. Though Remember, you need at least one hand to carry it at all times, we don't have holder for polearms.

Are polearms difficult and tiring to use?
No. They're lightweight and well balance. Of course, if you are used to a 1-handed weapon, it requires a bit more control from you.

Do polearms accommodate beginners?
Yes. Short spears are easy to learn, while longer halberds and glaives are a testament to practice.

How do I handle polearms between events?
Flat, dry, and out of the sun—never bent under weight or buckled.

What type of polearms does Epic Armoury provide?
Spears, halberds, glaives, bardiches, partisans, and additional thematic models.