Quote Originally Posted by Cybvep View Post
Spear is a weapon which requires discipline and close formation in order to be employed effectively, i.e. in a shieldwall.
Pikes require a close formation, but a short spear is a perfectly good duelling weapon. It's like a short sword with a greater reach. Yes, it can be batted aside, but against a good spearman that will be a lot more difficult than you think.