When it comes to hand to hand weapons, there are three distinct types of damage; some of which work better than others depending on the circumstances. Slashing damage, the most common type of damage, is caused by short swords, long swords, halberds, and most axes. This kind of damage works well against simple armor, but it can be difficult for it to penetrate heavy armor or a shield. Piercing damage is the second type, common to objects like rapiers and javelins. This type is good for slipping through the cracks of armor with a precise attack. The final type is blunt, common to clubs, morning stars, and objects like the spiked mace. Because of the force behind blunt objects, they force a defender to recoil from the attack, which makes them ideal for hammering down shields. Understanding these types of damage one can imagine how warriors of ancient times fought each other. In a time before ranged weapons, like the crossbow and musket, were common, understanding these weapons allowed warriors to succeed in dire circumstances.