The Pike

Shock soldiers who were required to push the oposition from the field.

The Pike had a wooden shaft with an iron or steel spearhead affixed. This was often reinforced with metal strips called "cheeks" or langets to stop the head being chopped off with a swinging sword.


The Pike.

The Musket.

The Cannon.

Civilians.

Officers.

The Drums.

 
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Basic foote soldier fighting with a 18' Pike, formed "blocks" and then attacked the enemy pike blocks, either at charge for point to point fighting, or in a pike push which results from blocks clashing from charge as the mass moves forward, the idea being to gain gound. Pikemen are also used to protect the musket blocks from the enemy cavalry.

The pike block forms the backbone of some regiments, it is a very rewarding role which demands full physical contact and a degree of stamina. However, don't let this discourage you as training is given, and safety does play a very large part in it. You can always take a few minutes out of the fury of the battle to catch your breath. It is great fun with a lot of regimental pride involved, and the elation after winning a pike push is imense; you get rid of all that pent-up aggression, safely.