The mace, an iconic blunt weapon since antiquity, reached its peak in the Middle Ages in response to the evolution of armor. Its simple but formidable design - a heavy head mounted on a handle - made it a formidable weapon against plate protections, where blades failed. Popular among both knights and foot soldiers, it was effective on foot as well as on horseback, demonstrating its versatility on the battlefield.

The evolution of the mace saw the addition of spikes and flanges, increasing its destructive efficiency. Its relative simplicity of manufacture made it accessible to many fighters, while remaining a weapon of choice against heavily armored opponents. This adaptability made it an essential martial tool of its time.

In the context of HEMA, the mace offers a fascinating field of study. Our modern replicas, designed to combine historical authenticity and training safety, allow for the exploration of techniques specific to this weapon. The emphasis is on mastering force and precision, essential for fully exploiting the potential of this seemingly simple but technically demanding weapon.