Caption

24. Caltrop, iron

From Stora Hellvigs, Fole parish, Gotland, 1300-1361 A. D. A caltrop is a type of weapon. It consists of four sharp ends that are designed in such a way that one end is always pointing upwards regardless of its position. By spreading many caltrops on the ground it will make it difficult for the enemy to advance, regardless of whether they are on horseback or foot. A caltrop looks about the same today as it did then and is sometimes used in robberies to make it difficult for pursuing cars. SHM 21993:117