...and while were on the topic of pole arms.....

JamesKelly · 8th September 2014, 10:23 PM

Just a metallurgical aside.

"Cast iron cannot be wrought and wrought iron cannot be cast."

This was a true saying through the 19th century, at least in the Western World.
Steel takes something over 1430C (2600F) to melt, cast iron maybe 200-250C (400-450F) lower. A somewhat ductile form of cast iron, "Malleable Iron" was developed in 18th century France. It would not be suitable for any axe or spear, it is not that tough.

Michigan Steel Cast Company was organized in 1908 in Detroit, I believe MISCO was a rather early steel foundry.

8th September 2014, 10:23 PM	#7
JamesKelly Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Location: Michigan, U.S.A. Posts: 108	Just a metallurgical aside. "Cast iron cannot be wrought and wrought iron cannot be cast." This was a true saying through the 19th century, at least in the Western World. Steel takes something over 1430C (2600F) to melt, cast iron maybe 200-250C (400-450F) lower. A somewhat ductile form of cast iron, "Malleable Iron" was developed in 18th century France. It would not be suitable for any axe or spear, it is not that tough. Michigan Steel Cast Company was organized in 1908 in Detroit, I believe MISCO was a rather early steel foundry.