Sarrisa Spear

By Crusader1307

The primary weapon needed to achieve “The Phalanx Formation”, The Sarrisa was a long wooden Spear weapon, possibly designed under commission of Macedonian King Philip II (3rd Century B.C.). Made of pliable (yet strong) Cornel Wood – The Sarrisa ranged from 13 to 20 feet in length and weighed 12 to 15-pounds (quite heavy). The Spear point of The Sarrisa was made of forged, one-piece bronze. At the opposite end, another bronzed Spike was placed. This served two causes. The “weight” of the end-piece served as a counterbalance. The second, the end could be driven into the ground before a soldier (for stability) – while the soldier “angled” the Tip at his advancing enemy. This tactic was especially effective in “breaking” a Cavalry or Chariot Charge. Carried over into the Reign of Philip's Son Alexander, The Sarrisa was also very adaptable to climate. The Cornel wood absorbed little moisture and the bronze fixtures did not rust.