1. Frontal Blows: Knights would deliver powerful, straight blows with the mace's head aimed directly at the opponent's head, face, or vulnerable body parts. These strikes could cause severe blunt force trauma and potentially incapacitate or kill the adversary.
2. Overhead Smashes: Knights would raise the mace overhead and bring it down with great force, aiming to crush or penetrate the enemy's armor or helmet. This technique could break through defenses and cause significant damage.
3. Swinging Attacks: The mace's heavy head allowed for effective swinging motions. Knights would use this to target multiple opponents in close combat, striking with horizontal or diagonal swings that could break bones or crush armor.
4. Defense and Counter-Attack: Maces could be used defensively as well. Knights would hold the mace in one hand and use it to block incoming sword blows or spear thrusts. They could then swiftly counter-attack with powerful mace strikes.
5. Armor Piercing: Knights often used specialized maces known as "flanged maces" or "morning stars," which had spiked heads that could pierce through gaps in armor joints or inflict severe injuries to unprotected areas.
6. Mounted Combat: Knights sometimes used maces while mounted on horseback, particularly in close-quarters engagements or during cavalry charges. The mace's impact could dislodge riders from their mounts or break their weapons.
7. Bludgeoning and Disabling: Maces were effective in bludgeoning and disarming opponents. Knights could use the mace to strike the opponent's weapon or limbs, rendering them ineffective or unable to continue fighting.
8. Combined Techniques: Knights often used maces in combination with other weapons, such as swords or shields, creating a varied and adaptable fighting style that could adapt to different combat situations.
9. Intimidation Factor: The mace's imposing appearance and reputation for brutality had a psychological impact on opponents, sometimes causing them to hesitate or surrender before engaging in close combat.
10. Versatility and Flexibility: Maces were versatile weapons suitable for both mounted and foot combat, making them popular among medieval knights and warriors of different backgrounds.