Staff weapons from the 16th century: manufacturing methods of two corsesques from the “Luigi Marzoli” Museum of Arms in Brescia, Italy

This study aims to characterize two types of corsesques, staff weapons that have been rarely investigated from a materials science perspective. Both artifacts are part of the collection at the “Luigi Marzoli” Arms Museum in Brescia and date back to the 16th to 17th centuries. The primary objective is to elucidate the manufacturing processes behind these objects and to identify key differences in the production techniques of their various components. The analysis of selected samples from each weapon proved essential for reconstructing the heat treatment processes applied during their manufacture. Microscopic examinations performed using Light Optical Microscopy (LOM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and microhardness measurements enabled the detailed classification of microstructures, many of which were identified as typical of hardening and tempering cycles. The data reveal that although both corsesques were produced using similar low-carbon steel alloys and share comparable general forms, they differ markedly in manufacturing strategy. Corsesque 1 displays a relatively uniform microstructure across multiple components, indicating a cohesive heat treatment likely applied to the weapon as a whole. This suggests an approach favoring mechanical consistency and manufacturing efficiency. In contrast, Corsesque 2 exhibits a more differentiated treatment of its individual parts, with varying microstructures tailored to specific mechanical demands — such as impact absorption, edge retention, or flexibility — pointing to a more complex, component-based optimization.