The lightsaber is the most iconic and recognisable symbol of the Star Wars franchise. Wielded by both the Jedi and the Sith, these powerful energy swords feature different designs and specifications that are personalised to their individual owners.
The double-bladed lightsaber was one of the uniquely-designed lightsabers that immediately caught the eye of Star Wars fans when it first appeared on screen in The Phantom Menace.
In this article, we shall be taking a quick dive into the origins of the double-bladed lightsaber and the dynamics of its design.
The Origin and History of the Double-bladed Lightsaber
The creation of the double bladed lightsaber dates back to the ancient order of dark Force-sensitive warriors known as the Sith (during the time of the mythical Sith Lord Exar Kun of the Qel-Droma Epics). The saber, which consisted of a single hilt with beam emitters attached at both ends, was wielded by the Sith as a way of affirming their excellent mastery of the Force.
For the longest time, double-bladed lightsabers were only associated with the Sith and the dark side because of their evolution. A good number of dark side characters had double-bladed lightsabers, and they include; Darth Maul, Asajj Ventress, Savage Opress, Darth Zannah and dark side Rey.
However, as time went on, many weapons of its design began to come into the possession of the Jedi. Some of the Jedi Knights who notably wielded double-bladed lightsabers include; General Pong Krell, Cera Junda, Keeve Trennis, Jaro Tapal, and Cal Kestis.
Design Specifications of the Double-Bladed Lightsaber
The original design of double-bladed lightsabers conceived by the Sith Lords was quite sophisticated. The sabers consisted of single lightsaber mechanisms that had two sets of emitters (one on each end of the hilt). A perfect example of this original design was Exar Kun’s lightsaber which he created by converting a standard lightsaber to a double-bladed one based on schematics procured from a Sith Holocron.
Years later, this design was further simplified to retain a single mechanism but with an enlarged hilt. Eventually, this design was simplified even further, so double-bladed lightsabers would now consist of two separate lightsabers connected by their pommels rather than with a single hilt mechanism. This less elaborate design did have an advantage, as the handle (hilt) of double-bladed lightsabers became considerably lengthened.
Benefits of This Saber Design
The unique design of double-bladed lightsabers grants wielders a number of distinct combat advantages, such as;
- Allowing wielders to deliver quicker attacks (more slaughter per swing) with very few bodily movements.
- More effective defence. This is due to the doubled length of the weapon providing much more surface area for parrying and deflecting. This doubled hilt length also allows for more precise control, which enables intricate and acrobatic movements that are useful for swiftly disarming adversaries.
- Allowing wielders to engage opponents from multiple angles. This is a good way to catch opponents off guard.
- Psychology impact. The two blades which are moving at once can really overwhelm opponents who most likely would try to follow the movements of the blades separately rather than treating them as a single weapon. The extra blade can also help counter unsuspecting opponents, just as Darth Maul demonstrated in the Battle of Naboo.
Drawbacks of the Double-Bladed Lightsaber Design
The design of double-bladed lightsabers, without a doubt, offers a lot of advantages, particularly in combat. However, there are some drawbacks to using them.
First, intense training and discipline are required to fully master and harness the potential of this lightsaber design. One would need exceptional skill and precision to effectively wield the weapon. In the Star Wars universe, Sith and Jedi had to undergo years of rigorous instruction and training to master the art of duelling with this lightsaber without impaling themselves in the process.
Also, the number of lightsaber techniques that are employable with double-bladed lightsabers is quite limited. This is due to the second blade making it extremely difficult or impossible to successfully execute certain positions and movements.
Conclusion
The double-bladed lightsaber is a specialised lightsaber that features a unique design. This unique design is not only eye-catching but very beneficial to a wielder during combat. However, the mastery of this type of lightsaber is very difficult, which is why only powerful Sith Lords and highly skilled Jedi are able to successfully wield them.
