The pike is a polearm of about 16 to 18 feet in length with a small bladed head. The pike was the most effective defense against cavalry charges and the pikemen who wielded the weapon had a special role in protecting the musketeers while they were reloading their weapons. The pike was not especially useful to the Jamestown colonists since mounted soldiers did not confront them and their principal engagements were skirmishes with the Indians.

All of the pike heads excavated from James Fort are socketed and have four-sided diamond shaped blades. The heads would have been attached to a long wooden shaft by long iron straps or languets. These would have also reinforced the shaft and protected it from being cut.

Pike heads, early 17th century. Context: Pit 1, ca. 1607-1610.