Entry Last Update: 04/30/2001
Description: Pole Weapons represents training with and knowledge of standard-sized and extra-large weapons based on a standard "polearm" design. This includes spears, halberds, and poleaxes.
Who Can Learn It: Anyone can learn Pole Weapons, though the "melee" classes will advance more quickly in it than others (faster OR/DR progression).
What It is Supposed to Do: Allow you to better attack and defend yourself when using pole weapons.
What it Does: Increases your OR and DR values when using a pole weapon. As well, additional fatigue points are gained after reaching certain levels in Pole Weapons. Pole Weapons appears to be fully implemented at this time, though tweaks to the amount of OR and DR each class gains per training level are expected.
Activation: ATTACK (ATTACK [Target]), K (Repeats the attack on the last target).
Usefulness (Low Levels): High. "Hunting" with a weapon is one of the best ways to earn money, especially at low levels.
Usefulness (Mid-Levels): High. OR and DR gained per level increases at the mid-levels. Weapon swing delay is decreased slightly.
Usefulness (High Levels): High. High levels have the largest rate of OR and DR progression. Weapon swing delay continues to get slight decreases.
How to Practice: Attack someone. This is usually done to NPCs, and is called "hunting." If you do not have a vigor spell, it is recommended that you use what is called a "no fatigue" weapon. These weapons do not drain your fatigue points when swung, though they do much less damage than their larger-sized counterparts.
Tips: You can usually find better pole weapons in the towns beyond Spur. Remember, the better your weapon, the more damage you will do.. and, potentially, the more money you will earn from hunting.
Interesting Facts: You will see your first drop in weapon delay at level 11. Your swing time will be decreased by one second.
Unconfirmed Rumors (May or May Not Be True): It is rumored that Pole Weapons have the highest maximum damage of all the melee weapons.
Notes: Pole Weapons is one of the 5 major weapon skills in the game, which includes Blunt Weapons, Edged Weapons, Throw Weapons, and Missile Weapons. It grants additional fatigue points as you advance in level.