During Middle Ages, emperors fought one another for power, prestige, property, and/or influence. The Medieval times were an extremely violent period in history involving battles in both Europe and other parts of the world. In order to win battles, myriads of weapons were introduced by the warlords.
Caltrop is one of the medieval weapons composed of four spikes or points arranged so that however is thrown on the ground, one spike always sticks up. The weapon was mainly used for slowing down the advance of horses, war elephants, and armies.
Types of Caltrops
The types of caltrops include water caltrop, iron caltrop, and the Japanese version of the caltrop is called makibishi. Caltrops were seen to have been used during the World War 2.
In the defense of samurai fortifications, makibashi played an important role, and in feudal Japan, it is used to slow down the opponent. Makibishi made from the dried seed pod of water were named as tennenbishi while the iron makibishi were called tetsubishi.
Modern Uses of Caltrops
Unlike medieval times, in modern days, caltrops are used quite differently. It has become a symbol in pro-union rallies, drawn on t-shirts, hats, or in some cases worn as jewelry. Caltrops, were basically, used to demolish the tires of management. However, the state of Illinois stipulated a law against the possession of such devices during the Caterpillar strike of the mid-1990s. Moreover, caltrops were used as tire deflation devices. Australian light horse troops would collect caltrops as keepsakes. These collected caltrops were exchanged with French troops for bullets. Caltrop is also seen used as symbolic uses.
Caltrops Training Method
The training method involves tossing a handful of Caltrops at the location of the target and spreading the small metal spikes over a large area. These methods were practiced during the training period.
Trainees were also taught how to damage the hooves of horses and hinder their movement.
Medieval Weapons - Facts and Information
Caltrops is one of the type of weapons that was used by feudal armies during the Middle Ages. All men in The Middle Ages were expected to know how to fight. They were expected to be readily available when called to fight for the king. Their lives were organized and structured to have military training incorporated in their daily lives.
Expertise in the use of medieval weapon such as Caltrops and understanding the strategy of Middle Age warfare was crucial and played an important part in Medieval Life. Caltrops training include practicing new moves, accuracy, defending, and managing battles including close contact fights using Caltrops .