28. Cutting, Thrusting, and If All Else Fails, Bludgeoning
The longsword’s long handle was designed for a two-handed grip that could deliver powerful cuts and thrusts. It was a cut and thrust weapon with a light point and cutting edges, that could deal with unarmored and armored foes. Against armored opponents, blows were ineffective at slicing or cutting. However, a longsword blow delivered with enough force could still produce a concussive impact to stun and disorient an armored opponent, and leave him temporarily vulnerable to a more lethal follow-up.
Despite its size, in the hands of a competent user, the longsword was a quick and versatile weapon that could effectively deal out lethal thrusts, slices, and cuts. By the late 1300s, codified systems of longsword combat had emerged throughout Europe. In its heyday, various fighting schools and fighting styles sprouted to instruct on the martial art of longsword fighting. Such schools were especially popular in Germany, which produced the most renowned longsword teachers and fight masters.