18thC Spontoons

[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/