Regarding the strapping: one might think that it would be good if the strapping ran the whole length of the spear, since it would give a better grip. But it will stop the spear haft from sliding in the hands (e.g., when using the "pool queue shot", where a thrust is done by sliding the haft through front hand). For a fighting spear used in two hands, that's really important, so one has a smooth haft, rather than a grippy haft.
Strapping near the head will tend to keep the head attached if the haft breaks near the socket. Probably also reduce the chance of the haft breaking completely through. So it's functional as well as decorative.
(Strapping all the way down the haft should work for cavalry lances, and infantry spears used one-handed with shields.)
|