Brief Description:  The flanged mace is a compact, devastating medieval bludgeon designed to defeat plate armor. It features a heavy metal head with protruding vertical "flanges" that concentrate kinetic energy, preventing glancing blows and denting armor. Measuring 20 to 28 inches long and weighing 2 to 3.5 lbs., it was an ideal secondary weapon for mounted knights.

Anatomy of a Flanged Mace:

The Head: The defining feature. The head typically consists of 4 to 8 symmetrically arranged metal blades or fins (flanges) projecting from a central core. Contrary to popular belief, these are rarely sharp; they are intentionally blunt and wedge-shaped. Upon impact, the flanges bite into rigid plate armor or thick mail to provide traction, transferring all the force of the swing directly to the wearer's body rather than sliding off.

The Shaft: Because a mace doesn't rely on a sharp edge, its shaft is sturdy, rigid, and nearly indestructible. While early examples had wooden shafts, medieval steel examples (often constructed with hollow, thick-walled cores to save weight) became standard.

The Grip: Designed for a secure hold under pressure or while wearing steel gauntlets. Grips were typically wrapped in leather or cord, and were often flared at the pommel (the base of the handle) to prevent the weapon from slipping out of the wielder's hand. Many also included wrist lanyards.