Weaponry: The Bardiche

Continuing my series on interesting historical weapons for use in Shadowdark, I give you the Bardiche.

Like some other medieval weapons, the Bardiche came from its primary use as a practical tool in agriculture or animal husbandry. A polearm of sorts, farmers used a very similar tool to behead oxen for slaughter. It was powerful due to the torque generated by swinging the 5′ shaft, and sharp because of the long, razor-edged blade affixed to the end of the shaft (See image).

The Bardiche was used by Swiss militias and footmen fighting German adversaries. Later, the weapon gained popularity in Eastern Europe. Training was fairly simple, and the Bardiche was deadly if given enough room to swing it forcefully. It could be effective against horse and rider when engaged in large melees.

Below, you can download my weapon notes with stats specifically for use with the Shadowdark RPG. I list suggestions about how to implement it into your own games.

Please try it and let me (us) know how it works at your own table or VTT.

DOWNLOAD PDF (FREE): Bardiche-for-Shadowdark_EDM