Aztec Maquahuitl

By Crusader1307

The principle fighting weapon of The Aztec Warrior, The Maquahuitl was a type of primitive sword-weapon. It reached it's final development in the early 15th Century. Made of wood, it resembled an English Cricket Bat. Long and flat, an average Maquahuitl was 3 to 4 feet in length and could weigh several pounds. On piece in construction, the handle was wrapped in leather (for grip). A groove was carved extending the entire perimeter of the “blade”. Into the groove was affixed shaped pieces of obsidian rock. Chipped to form a razor sharp edge, these pieces were sharp enough to cleave through flesh and bone without effort. In use, the Maquahuitl could be used as both Club and Sword. Some versions were said to be as long as 5 to 6 feet and made have been also used for Ceremonial purposes (sacrifice). They were carried in the hand openly or carried (via a tong) – attached to a Warrior's belt.