Maquahuitl

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Drawing of a 15th century macahuitl

The maquahuitl was an Aztec obsidian-edged sword-club. It served both as an edged weapon (due to its obsidian blades) and an impact weapon (due to its stout hardwood body). The maquahuitl was also self sharpening. It was capable of easily cleaving to bone. According to Spanish conquistador Bernal Diaz del Castillo, it was also capable of decapitating a horse.

Aztec warriors as shown in the 16th century Florentine Codex. Note that each warrior is brandishing a maquahuitl.

Although the maquahuitl could cleave like a sword, it lacked a point and could not be used for thrusting. It balanced like a club instead of sword. These were shortcomings and placed the Aztecs at a disadvantage when fighting against Spanish sword-and-target men.

All recovered Aztec accounts concerning the maquahuitl describe it as a one-handed weapon, generally to be used with a shield. However, many Spanish accounts describe it as being used with two-hands as well.

See also

• Macana
• Aztec army

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