A staff-sword is very difficult to wield skillfully, but an expert at a staff-sword could be exceptionally deadly. This is mainly because the enemies they will face are quite unfamiliar with the style of the staff-sword and they will not know what it is capable of. The hûthvír is generally used to duel many foes at once, because either end can be used to fight one opponent each. Speed is of the essence with one of these and slashing is the recommended attack, for stabbing would enable you to be attacked by another foe whilst you deal with one other. Mostly, these are used to keep people at bay, as they are not as powerful as most swords.