18thC Spontoons

[Norman McCormick]

Hi Mark,
I have not come across any references to camp guards using spontoons/pikes but I see no reason so suppose that they weren't used it that situation. As far as naval connections are concerned I came across this thread http://www.swordforum.com/vb4/showth...ants-1792-1830 where Glen mentioned spontoons being used by Royal Marines although the kind he references are a later type utilising a cross guard.

Glen if you are about could you elaborate on the sources for spontoons used by the Royal Marines.

My Regards,
Norman.

P.S. Here's an interesting article on spontoons/halberds etc. https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/20...and-spontoons/

[adrian]

As far as the etched numerals, can we assume these are rack numbers? Troop numbers?

Those were assembly marks, or "Reassembly identifying marks" (RIMs), and were common on products that included hand fitted components - such as firearms, locks, etc.

[M ELEY]

I agree that in the standard sense, the spontoon was a regimental symbol and not used in combat, but there are always exceptions when it comes to pole-arms. I believe the Swiss Guard still incorporate a spontoon, but again, I understand strictly for pageantry. Below, however, is a clear indication that they could be effectively used as a weapon-


"Although ornamental, spontoons nonetheless were deadly weapons. Numerous accounts mention their use at the Battle of Culloden in 1745. Captain Lord Robert Kerr of Barrell’s Regiment (4th Foot) speared a charging highlander with his spontoon before he was cut down and slain moments later."

"Lewis and Clark may have been the last American military officers to get any real use out of the spontoon. Watchmen and policemen in some cities carried smaller versions of spontoons until about 1860, but by the time of the War of 1812, they had essentially disappeared from military life."

Here's the article with some great reference information-

https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/20...and-spontoons/

[Norman McCormick]

Originally Posted by M ELEY

Below, however, is a clear indication that they could be effectively used as a weapon-
"Although ornamental, spontoons nonetheless were deadly weapons. Numerous accounts mention their use at the Battle of Culloden in 1745. Captain Lord Robert Kerr of Barrell’s Regiment (4th Foot) speared a charging highlander with his spontoon before he was cut down and slain moments later."

Hi Mark,
I can verify that these two spontoons have sharp and useable points particularly the one made solely as a spontoon. As you can see the socket on that one is pretty substantial as are the shafts which are both 1 1/3 inches in diameter.
My Regards,
Norman.

[M ELEY]

Originally Posted by Norman McCormick

Hi Mark,
I can verify that these two spontoons have sharp and useable points particularly the one made solely as a spontoon. As you can see the socket on that one is pretty substantial as are the shafts which are both 1 1/3 inches in diameter.
My Regards,
Norman.

I'm sure they do, Norman, and I wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of either of them!

[M ELEY]

Originally Posted by adrian

As far as the etched numerals, can we assume these are rack numbers? Troop numbers?

Those were assembly marks, or "Reassembly identifying marks" (RIMs), and were common on products that included hand fitted components - such as firearms, locks, etc.

Forgot to thank you for this information, Adrian. That makes sense that they would be 'parts' numbers. I guess I'm always looking for 'rack numbers' being I collect maritime items and such markings could often be where an item was stored/located on the ship.