The two-handed sword of medieval Europe had a number of names, most fairly self-explanatory. Great in size and weight (some
weighed as much as 15-20 pounds), they required two hands to use (zweihander is German for two handed). Most simple two
handed swords were characterized by long straight blades, straight quillons, and a long hilt sufficient for grasping with two hands.
Some two-handed swords such as the claymore and flamberge were unique enough to have their own names. Despite their
straight blades, two-handed swords were designed for swinging, rather than just thrusting. It was one of the few swords designed
to and capable of crushing through heavy armor. A great deal of strength and space were needed to use a two-handed sword well.
Two-handed weapons were most popular in Germany and England (the Highlanders preferred their claymore). When heavy armor
disappeared with the development of firearms in the late 16th century, so did two-handed weapons for all but ceremonial
purposes.