Early Chinese archers dispensed with their swords as back-up weapons and used a mace instead. Armor had become sophisticated enough to stop a sword blow, but a heavy mace could crush helmets and armor by concussive force alone. The Cold Steel Chinese Mace is a highly versatile design we believe any Chinese soldier or archer would be proud to own. The classic head is reminiscent of a pumpkin in shape and is approximately 3 inches in diameter. It is welded to a steel shaft handle that is wrapped with leather for a firm grip. The handle is long enough to accommodate a two-handed grasp for more power and leverage. It is surprisingly well balanced and with its weight at a little over three pounds, it has enough heft to make it an efficient weapon to face an opponent wearing mail or plate body armor. It will make a fine addition to any reenactors collection.