Choose Your Weapon
What makes the LOTR universe so special isn't just the characters, but the weapons they wielded, each with its own special lore. From enchanted swords that glow in the presence of orcs to massive siege engines that crush city gates, each weapon tells a story of courage, destiny, and power. Here are 20 legendary weapons from LOTR that made battles unforgettable.
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1. Andúril
Andúril was the reforged sword that Elendil used to cut The One Ring from Sauron’s hand. Andúril was given to Aragorn to fulfill an ancient prophecy and as a symbol that the age of kings could be restored.
2. Sting
Sting may have been short by elven standards, but it was the perfect size for a hobbit. It had the unique ability to glow blue whenever orcs or goblins were nearby. It was given to Frodo by Bilbo.
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3. Glamdring
Glamdring was Gandalf's legendary sword. It was forged by elves in ancient times, and like Sting, it too could glow blue in the presence of orcs.
4. Gimli's Axe
The battle axe that Gimli wielded is easily one of the most iconic weapons in LOTR. It was devastating in close combat, especially when complemented by Aragorn's sword and Legolas's bow.
5. The Witch-King’s Flail
One of the scariest weapons in LOTR is the lord of the Nazgûl's flail, the spiked, swinging weapon he uses in battle against Éowyn. That scene is made all the more iconic because of the drama of this destructive armament.
6. The One Ring
The One Ring itself is the most devastating weapon in The LOTR. The whole series was centered around the Fellowship destroying it because, in the hands of the enemy, it could destroy all the good in the world.
7. Herugrim
Herugrim is the ancient sword passed down through generations of Rohan kings. Wielded by Théoden, it's a symbol of hope and the glory of men.
8. Barrow-Blades
The barrow-blades are a set of weapons that were enchanted to fight evil. After being trapped in a tomb, Merry finds one of the blades and famously wields it for the rest of the series.
9. Morgul Blades
The morgul blades are wielded by the Nazgûl (Ringwraiths). They were designed to pierce through armor and hurt mortals in profound ways. It's the weapon that the Witch-King used, a Morgul blade to stab Frodo in the first book.
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10. Sauron's Mace
Forged in Mordor, Sauron's mace was created to be a brutal, massive, and fearsome weapon. It's mentioned in historical accounts, like when Sauron fought Elendil.
11. Legolas's Bow
Legolas's bow is one of the most iconic weapons, more for Legolas's talent with it than the weapon itself. The long Elven bow made from Mirkwood is lightweight, durable, flexible, and made for accuracy. It was used in countless memorable stunts and moments, including his "kill count" competition with Gimli.
12. Gandalf's Staff
Gandalf's staff is how he channels his magic. There are only five wizards in the entire LOTR universe, all carrying a staff unique to them. Gandalf's is brown and rustic like a twisted branch, though later, he is given a smooth, straight, white one.
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13. Saruman's Staff
Saruman's staff is commanding with sharp edges and a white orb in the middle. It's black, juxtaposing Gandalf's white staff, symbolizing good versus evil.
14. The Great Bow of Galadhrim
The Great Bow of Galadhrim is an especially powerful bow. Crafted by elves, it was created for precision and range. It was gifted to Legolas when the Fellowship visited Lothlórien.
15. Hadhafang
Long, slim, and elegant, Hadhafang is Arwen's sword and a family heirloom. She uses it to protect Frodo from the Nazgûl in The Fellowship of the Ring.
16. Gúthwinë
Gúthwinë translates to "battle-friend," and it is the sword of Éomer. He wields it while defending Helm’s Deep and battling Sauron’s forces at Pelennor Fields. Far from flashy or magical, it's a practical, good-quality sword fit for a real warrior.
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17. The Witch-King’s Sword
The Witch-King’s sword is one of the most terrifying weapons in LOTR. Forged and enchanted in Mordor, the sword is dark, carries evil power, and has the ability to instill terror, especially in the hands of the towering figure of the lord of the Ringwraiths.
18. Boromir’s Sword & Shield
Boromir carries a long sword, which signifies his strength, and a round shield decorated with the White Tree, which represents his role as protector of his people. He uses them to fight valiantly until the bitter end.
19. Grond
Grond is the huge spiked battering ram that the orcs use to break the gates of Minas Tirith. It crushes through the gates, allowing Sauron's forces to flood into the city.
20. Narsil
Narsil was the sword of Elendil. It was destroyed by Sauron in the War of the Last Alliance, but Elendil managed to pick up the broken blade to cut the One Ring from Sauron's hand. It was later forged into a new sword and given to Aragorn.
