(Five Egyptian men clad in steel plated chainmail and helmets ride their steeds toward the camera, the leader pointing their lance forward.)
Mameluke Cavalrymen: The elite slave cavalry of Egypt who defeated every army in their path from the Mongols up until the arrival of Napoleon.
(A Mameluke rides up towards an invading Mongol horseman and swings his sword decapitating the Asian warrior.)
vs.
(Five Sassanid Persian men in chainmail also ride their steeds toward the camera with lances pointed forward.)
Sasanian Cataphracts: Sassanid Persia's most feared cavalry warriors who battled the Byzantine empire for almost 400 years.
(A force of Sasanian cataphracts rides towards an army of Byzantine infantry. The Persian cavalry crashes through their lines breaking it cutting down many of the soldiers.)
WHO IS DEADLIEST?
To find out, we've assembled a team of world class fighters to test history's most lethal weapons. Using 21st century science, we'll see what happens when two warriors go toe to toe.
No rules. No safety. No mercy. It's a duel to the death to decide who is…THE DEADLIEST WARRIOR!
Here in our elite fight club we have gathered doctors, medical scientists and weapons experts to test out the lethal arsenals wielded by each of our combatants to determine who would win a fight between the Middle East's most feared heavy cavalry forces.
Mameluke Cavalrymen
Circa: 1260 A.D.
Height: 5'9''
Weight: 160 lbs.
Body Armor: Mameluke Helmet, Steel Plated Chainmail,
Horse Armor: Steel Plated Chainmail
Sasanian Cataphracts
Circa: 626 A.D.
Height: 5'8''
Weight: 160 lbs.
Body Armor:, Steel Helmet, Chainmail Veil, Riveted Chainmail
Horse Armor: Steel Scale Mail
''Today marks our second episode on this show where we have an all out cavalry battle. What better warriors to do it with then the most feared heavy cavalry in the Middle East gentlemen? On one end you have the famed Egyptian slave cavalry the Mamelukes who repelled the Mongols handing them their first defeat. Then on the other hand you have the Sasanian Cataphracts who were the Sasanian empire's heavily armored horsemen who battled the Byzantine empire for nearly 400 years and for the first time ever, we'll test their horse's armors as well.'' Ancient weapons and combat specialist DeadAliveManiac started off.
''I'm totally giving this one all to the Mamelukes because they were the first ones to ever defeat the Mongols in a pitch battle whereas the Sasanian Cataphract suffered numerous losses in their wars with the Byzantine empire.'' Medical expert Zivon96 explained.
''Well, I'm siding with the Sasanians for this one because they pack the harder hitting short and mid-range weapons and plus, their horses have the harder armor to pierce.'' Weapons geek MKDemigodZ-Warrior countered.
''These two horseman were feared in their respective regions in their respective time periods and it will definitely be exciting to see which Middle Eastern nightmare triumphs in the end. We've got swords, lances, bows, and maces to test out so let's get this started.'' Modern warfare and weapons specialist PFC Rice Man said.
The Mamelukes are thought to have their origins in the Abbasid Caliphate in the 9th century. They were a very powerful knightly caste controlled by Muslim rulers around Egypt and much of the Middle East. They are best known for handing the Mongols their first defeat during the Battle of Ain Jalut in the year 1260 where they used the feigned retreat, the Mongol Horde's favorite tactic against them leading the raiders into Syria and eliminated them.
''Those who were Mamelukes were proud as their origins as a slave cavalry and the demands of becoming one were so high that some free Egyptians would actually sell themselves to gain access to it. They are considered the true guardians of Islam having repelled the Mongols and Crusaders.'' Rice Man explained.
The fearless slave cavalry sliced through all enemies of the Sultante with the deadliest of Middle Eastern weaponry.
Short Range: Mameluke Sword
Mid-Range: Mameluke Lance
Long Range: Tartar Recurve Bow
Special: Flanged Mace
Today however, the Mamelukes will take on a new threat, a force of horsemen who were descendants of the Parthian Cataphracts.
The backbone of the mighty Sasanian military was its heavy armoured cavalry, known since Classical antiquity in the west as Cataphracts. This was made up of noblemen who underwent extensive exercises in warfare and military maneuvers through military training, gaining discipline and becoming true soldiers. Within the Sasanian military, the cavalry was the most influential element, and Sasanian cavalry tactics were adopted by the Romans, Arabs, and Turks. Their weaponry, battle tactics, tamgas, medallions, court customs, and costumes greatly influenced their Romano-Byzantine neighbors.
''They were the best trained and lethal cavalry force in the Middle East during their time and earned their reputation by battling the Byzantine empire for nearly 400 years. Though they had some notable defeats they will still prove a powerful foe against the Mamelukes.'' Rice Man explained.
The fierce Sasanian cavalry charged into battle with a murderous arsenal of weapons that slayed many Byzantines.
Short Range: Sasanian Longsword
Mid-Range: Kontos
Long Range: Sasanian Composite Bow
Special: Sasanian Mace
Both cavalry forces rode into combat with two different blades used to slice through all their enemies. Up first will be the Sasanian cataphracts with their trusted Longsword.
''The Sasanian Longsword was one of the primary weapons used by the Sasanian military. It had a tapered iron blade that measured about 3 and a half feet long and was very good at thrusting but was also effective as slicing enemies apart. It weighed 3 pounds.'' Sasanian reenactor Ardashir explained.
''That blade seriously looks like it can cause some serious trauma.'' Zivon commented.
To test out the performance of the Sasanian Longsword our panel has set up two mounted targets. One will be unarmored to test out the sword's damage on bare flesh while the second target will be covered in the Steel Plated Chainmail of the Mamelukes.
''Alright man, you get one pass on those two targets so let's see what you can do.'' DAM said.
''I won't fail to impress you.'' Ardashir said mounting his horse and getting into position.
''Alright Ardashir, on my go 3...2...1...charge!" DAM shouted.
Ardashir willies his horse forward while raising his longsword into the air ready to strike his first target and as he rides up to it he takes a swing with his sword and hits the target right in the neck and cleanly decapitates the torso sending blood spraying everywhere much to the awe of the panelists. As he rides past the previous target he rides towards the armored target and as it comes within reach he swings at the armor with an audible clang but leaves only a dent.
With the testing complete the panel then makes their way over to assess the damage inflicted.
''Alright, let me see what we have here.'' Zivon said inspecting the armored torso. ''First off, I don't even need to explain what happened with the first target because he lost his head and that is instant death right there. However, for your second target you did managed to leave a moderate dent in the steel plated portion of the armor but that is all you were able to do. I see no visible penetration in his armor and you only managed to spook him at best.''
Mameluke expert Ahmed walk over unimpressed by the longsword's performance.
''Well, there's no doubt that your sword can easily slice people's heads off but the thing with your sword is that it is not designed to be a cavalry weapon like my sword.''
The Mamelukes slash back with their trademark sword.
"The Mameluke sword was an adaptation of the Persian shamshir but with a slightly less amount of curve to it which gave it a little bit more of a straight cut. It was 3 feet long and just over a pound in weight and was a perfect sword for cavalry.'' Explained Ahmed.
''Interesting looking sword there. Alright it's the same test for you. One ride by for both targets and you may begin when ready.'' DAM said.
Ahmed mounts the horse and rides into position, ready to strike his targets.
''Okay Ahmed you look like you're ready. So on my go...3...2...1...Charge!" Zivon called out.
Ahmed winnied his horse forward and the stallion steadily picked up speed as it makes it way towards the first unarmored target and as he approaches the Egyptian expert swings his sword and easily decapitates the target without any trouble whatsoever. With that target dealt with the expert turns his attentions towards the target covered in the Sasanian armor. The stallion gallops it's way towards the target and when he comes within striking distance the Egyptian experts swings his sword and the blade impacts the armor but as he rides away the only visible damage we see is a few nicked chainlinks.
''Alright, let's see what he did.'' DAM said as all four of them walk over.
''So with the first target you managed to take your sword and you actually got a clean slice through his entire neck causing a full on decapitation and the last thing this guy would've seen was this sword about to slice his head off. An instant kill.''
The Canadian doctor then makes his way over to the second armored torso.
''Bad news, I see no visible penetration in this set of armor and you've only managed to break off a few links but that's it. Other than that you may have caused a broken rib or two and he's spooked at most so no kill there.'' Concluded the good doctor.
Ahmed only shrugged his shoulders despite his armor failure. ''Well, if that doesn't work I can just find my way around the armor and aim straight for his neck or face and and make this a guillotine by horse.''
''That's if you can catch up to the Sasanian. They were just as fast and lethal as their Parthian ancestors.'' Ardashir snorted.
After testing out the capabilities of both swords off horseback and their abilities to deal with armor, which one do our experts believe takes the edge?
''Normally I would give the edge to the curved sword off horseback, but the Sasanian longsword showed us that it can also function well in a cavalry battle. So I'm gonna have to call this one even all the way through.'' DAM started off.
''I disagree and give this one to the Mameluke sword. It's a cavalry battle and when it comes to that scenario you know that slashing works best off horseback while thrusting attacks can be trickier to land. Plus, thrusting the longsword off horseback you have a very little aim point whereas the slashing you have a wider attack range.'' Zivon countered.
''I don't know, I think I'll have to give the edge to the Mameluke sword on this one because this is primarily a cavalry battle and the Mameluke sword works best for it because it's curved.'' Demigod said.
''Here is what I think, sometimes when you're in a cavalry battle there comes the moment on the battlefield when you are going to be dismounted off your horse and you'll need a weapon that can work in that scenario for you. On foot the Sasanian longsword will utterly decimate any foe while on horseback the Mameluke has the edge. For those reasons I'm gonna call this weapons comparison as a draw.'' Rice Man concluded.
For short range weapons, the edge is even.
Coming up, the two favored lances of our warriors come forth and then later we will test out the deadly bows that made these cavalry warriors feared in their respective times.
XXXXXX
Now, we move onward to the armor-piercing lances wielded by our warriors that made them feared by their enemies. The Mameluke Cavalrymen carried with them their famed Mameluke lance and the Sasanians bring in the highly fierce Kontos.
The two experts ride up to the panel at the testing site with their respective lances in hand.
''Alright guys, can you please explain to us your mid-range weapons?'' DAM asked.
''The Mameluke lance was a very deadly weapon. It had a tear-shaped steel head that was nearly half it's own length and was powerful enough to penetrate through the steel lamellar armor of the Mongols. Altogether it was 7 feet long and weighed 3 pounds.'' Explained the Egyptian expert.
DAM then turns to face the Sasanian expert. ''What about you Ardashir?''
''The favored lance of the Sasanian cavalry was the Kontarion, or simply the Kontos. It was the main weapon of the Cataphract. The design of this was very similar to the Greek dory but just a bit longer. It's known for it's sword-like iron blade and the butt spike opposite it. It measures at 11 feet long and weighs in at 4 pounds.''
To test out the armor piercing capabilities of these two lances the panel as set up a test consisting of a single mounted target. The riders will first attack the armored torso before coming back around and making another pass but they will attempt to pierce the armor of the opposing horse. Both riders will go at the same time.
''Alright you guys the targets are set up on my go on 3...2...1...Charge!'' DAM called out.
Both Ahmed and Ardashir winny their horses forward and both experts gallop towards their respective targets. First with Ahmed he approaches his Sasanian armor-clad target and lowers his lance and soon the head of the weapon stabs through the chainmail of his target and he rides away. At the same time Ardashir impales his target clad in the armor of the Mameluke and the head pierces clean through one of the steel plates in the armor and just like Ahmed he rides away after a successful run. The two experts ride away a fair distance and once they get far enough they both bring their horses to a stop and turn them around ready for their second attack run. Then on cue the experts mush their horses forward and once they come back within attack range of their intended targets they both lower their lances and then in sync they both stab their lances into their targets. Ardashir's Kontos managing to pierce clean through the steel plated chainmail while Ahmed's Mameluke lance penetrates the steel scale armor of the horse.
''Damn, it looks like they both caused some serious damage to their targets.'' DAM said as they all walk over to assess the damage.
''So, I'll start first with Ardhashir and his Kontos. The armored torso took a blow and the tip of your weapon went straight through this steel plate and managed to hit him dead in the left lung dropping it. He won't die but he will definitely be in a lot of pain. Now for the horse armor you managed to hit the beast in the side and the dept of penetration you achieved would be enough to hit the horse in the heart for an instant kill.'' Zivon commented before moving over to the Sasanian armored torso and steed. ''Now moving on with Ahmed and his Mameluke lance, the torso took a blow straight through his heart and his chainmail did nothing to protect him. So you're basically kabobbing this dude for an instant kill. Now for the horse I'm surprised by how much penetration you got. I can feel the inside of the horse's chest cavity and the depth is sufficient enough to kill this horse instantly. Good job.'' Concluded the doctor.
''Your lance is really good, but the thing I have to comment on is that the head is so small compared to the Mameluke lance.'' Ahmed commented.
''As long as I get the killing shot in I'm good to go. Your lance head may be bigger but that would mean more steel to maneuver around.'' Ardhashir said.
After testing out the armor piercing capabilities of both lances, which one does the panel believe take the edge?
''Normally lances would end in a draw for me, but I find myself more impressed by the superior piercing power of the Mameluke lance and it's much larger head. Much larger head equals more trauma on the body boys.'' DAM started off.
''I disagree, the performance of the lance will fall upon the individual soldier wielding them. They both killed their targets and have just about the same penetration power in my book from my examination of the bodies.'' Zivon countered.
''Yeah, I have to agree with Zivon on this one and call it even. I see the same amount of damage done between the two and neither have an advantage over the other that is significant enough to win one the edge.'' Demigod added.
''I'm with Zivon as well, the Mamelukes are dealing with a foe that has inferior armor but the opposing horse packs better armor than theirs. The Sasanians have to deal with the steel plates in both the Mameluke and their horses. Even all the way.'' Rice Man finished.
In mid-range weapons, the edge is dead even.
Coming up, the deadly and accurate bows of both our warriors will come forth in a battle for long range dominance.
XXXXXX
Now the time has come for our cavalry warriors to bring out their deadly long range killers. Up first will be the Sasanian Cataphracts with their highly lethal Sasanian composite bow.
''Alright Ardashir, can you please explain to us the kind of bow the Sasanians would've used?'' DAM asked.
''The kind of bow the Sasanians would've used would be a descendant of the bow wielded by the Persian Immortals only their's was more powerful and packed arrowheads that were capable of piercing at least chainmail armor unlike the arrowheads of the Immortals. The Sasanian composite bow was made of wood and horn and was a recurve bow design. It measured at 4 feet long, weighed 2 pounds.'' The expert explained.
To test out the killing power of the Sasanian composite bow, the panel has set up a mounted target clad in the armor of the Mameluke and their horse. Ardashir will have two shots to the armored torso and two shots on the armored horse to gauge his bow's penetration power.
Mounting his horse Ardashir rides into his starting position.
''On 3...2...1...Charge!" DAM called out.
Ardashir charges forward and takes an arrow and sets his sights on the armored torso and unleashes the arrow hitting a steel plate piercing it slightly. Taking his second arrow he aims and fires this time hitting the torso in the upper torso region piercing the chainmail armor. Riding past his targets he turns his horse around and taking his third arrow he takes aim at the armored steed and lets the arrow fly into the side of the beast getting good penetration. Ardashir prepares for his final pass and with his horse galloping straight towards his prey the expert strings an arrow and fires off his last arrow hitting the armored Mameluke horse in the side piercing clean through the chainmail armor.
With Ardashir's testing complete the panel makes their way over so Zivon can assess the damage.
''Let's see what you've achieved here.'' Said the Canadian doctor as he inspects the armored torso. ''Your first arrow managed to pierce through the Mameluke's steel plate but you got in only about an inch and a half of penetration. So no kill all you caused was a superficial cut. However, the second arrow hit this guy in the chainmail portion of his armor and the location in which you hit him struck the aorta for an instant kill.''
He then moves on to the armored steed.
''Your first arrow hit this horse and the depth of penetration is pretty damn good. Judging by the positioning of this shot you hit this horse to cause only severe pain and bleeding so you didn't strike any vital organs. Same thing with the second arrow, just barely missed the horse's heart so this stallion is spooked and in pain is all.'' Concluded Zivon.
''In my opinion, the Tartar would be the more powerful bow as it was strong enough to pierce the steel lamellar of the Mongols.'' Ahmed commented.
Since we've already seen the Tartar bow before we will have Ahmed test it out against the Sasanian's riveted chainmail and their horse armor consisting of steel scales.
''Alright Ahmed, it's the same test for you. Two shots to the torso and two shots to the horse.'' DAM said.
Ahmed nods and without hesitation he whinnies his horse forward and takes an arrow and strings it onto his bowstring. He aims at the torso and lets the arrow fly and manages to strike the target dead center in the chest. Before he can ride by he fires off his second arrow and this time it hits the torso in the face through the chainmail veil. After riding by his target he turns his horse around and begins galloping back towards his prey. He takes his third arrow letting it fly and hits the horse dead in the neck. With his last arrow he fires it off and manages a hit on the side of the horse going straight through the steel scale both times.
Zivon then makes his way to assess the damage.
''To make this simple, I can tell your first two shots to the armored torso were kills because the depth of penetration of your first arrow in the chest would be enough to strike his heart for an instant kill as well as your second getting him straight through the throat and that would sever the spinal cord. Two shots, two kills each.
He then moves to inspect the steed.
''I'm surprised, the arrows managed to pierce through the steel scale armor and you achieved some pretty good penetration here. The first arrow hitting the stallion in the neck would be enough to probably hit a major vein or artery that will lead to death. The second arrow pierced deep enough to cause a horrible injury and maybe drop one of his lungs. It isn't a kill but you still did some crippling damage.'' Concluded the doctor.
After testing out the warriors' respective bows and arrows against armor, which one do our experts believe takes the edge?
''Normally the skill of the warrior wielding his bow would put these two on an even playing field, but the Tartar seemed to pack just a tad bit more power and it was strong enough to pierce the Mongol's steel lamellar. I have to give it my edge.'' DAM started off.
''I disagree and give this one as even. They both are similar in design and power and if you switched the weapons with the other warrior I know the results would be the same.'' Zivon said.
''I agree, it will always come down to the man behind the weapon. Both bows no doubt will kill in just one shot if placed right.'' Demigod added.
''I am giving this edge as even as well. You two already stated the reasons for this.'' Rice Man concluded.
In long range weapons, the edge is even.
Coming up, we conclude the weapon testing by bringing out two powerful, armor smashing weapons and then later, Metal Harbinger will gauge the x-factors to determine who is the deadliest warrior.
XXXXXX
Now, the time has come for our warriors to unveil their lethal and deadly special weapons. Up first will be the Mamelukes with their maniacal mace.
''The Mameluke mace was a fairly simple, but deadly weapon. It was perfect to destroy armor and it had a 2 foot long wooden shaft with a 2 inch iron head and it had spikes wrapped around it. Altogether it weights 5 and a half pounds.'' Ahmed explained holding his weapon for the panel to see.
''It looks like it can cause immense damage, what about you Ardhashir?'' DAM asked.
''The Sasanians also carried maces with them into battle and the ones they had were made of iron, weighed about 5 pounds and measured about 2 feet with a plain iron ball head. It was perfect for defeating the armor their opponents, the Byzantines wore.'' Explained Ardhashir.
To test out the armor piercing capabilities of both maces, the panel has set up one target for each expert. A mounted gel torso clad in the opposing armor. Each expert will have two ride-bys, two strikes.
''Okay Ardashir, whenever you're ready go ahead and begin.'' DAM said.
Nodding, Ardashir takes his mace and gets his horse into a full gallop. Riding towards the target he raises his mace into the air and when he come within arm's reach he swings his face full force striking the target dead in the face popping it's head and sending brain matter flying everywhere. Riding back towards his target he rides towards it and with his mace he aims lower this time and hits the Mameluke-clad torso in the back breaking away a large amount of chain-links and sending an audible crack to fill the air making the panelists wince.
With the test now over the panelists walk over so Zivon can assess the damage.
''Your first hit to the face of this poor bastard completely turned...actually it shoved his face inside his skull and not to mention you basically popped his head open emptying his brains out for an instant kill. Your second attack struck him dead center in his back and you completely shattered his spine and severed the spinal cord leaving him paralyzed, not a kill but he will be exposed and helpless to other forms of attack.'' Said the good doctor.
Now it's Ahmed's turn with the Mameluke mace.
''Ahmed, you know what to do so let's see it.'' DAM said.
The Egyptian man mounts his horse and after getting settled he winnies his horse forward and gallops straight towards his target clad in the riveted chainmail of the Sasanian. Fast approaching his target he swings his mace and the head strikes the target dead center in the chest making it rock violently on its mount. After riding by his target he turns his horse around and begins his gallop back towards his victim and after coming within attack range he raises his mace high and as he rides by he swings it downward and hits the helmet denting it completely inward as he rides off sending a clang ringing out.
The team then walks over to gauge the damage.
''Wow, I'm impressed by the strike on the chest of this poor guy Ahmed. I don't even need to take the armor off to see what you did I can feel it through the chainmail. The positioning in which you hit this guy would've struck him in his heart and that alone would lead to a kill due to contusion of said organ. Next with the head you struck him with enough force to dent his helmet inward and low and behold, we have a severely depressed skull fracture and that is an instant kill right then and there.'' Zivon explained.
''Damn, we've seen some serious damage before with various weapons but nothing, nothing can compare to how horrific maces are when they hit a body.'' Demigod inquired.
''I agree, maces no matter where they hit they're gonna hurt like mother dick.'' Rice Man added.
After testing out the respective weapons of our warriors and their ability to destroy armor which one does the panel believe takes the edge?
''I have no problem deciding the edge for this one. It has to be even all the way through because both weapons function the same way and cause nearly the same damage.'' DAM started.
''I agree, despite the Mameluke mace having spikes both weapons still are practically the same thing and the damage is just unreal.'' Zivon seconded.
''Same, whoever gets their mace to hit the enemy first wins the battle. Edge even.''
''Even all the way, same weapons, slight difference in weight and design but all in all, it's gotta be even.'' Rice Man concluded.
In special weapons, our warriors are evenly matched.
Now, we move on to comparing the armor our warriors wore as well as the armor worn by their trusted stallions.
''For the body armor of these two warriors I'm giving this all to the Mamelukes because they have the added protecting of the steel plates.'' DAM said.
''The steel plates also force any thrusting weapons to try and aim for the chainmail portions for a kill but at most they'll just get a minor injury unless a lance or a mace crushes them. Edge Mameluke.'' Zivon seconded.
''The Sasanian armor has more places where all the weapons of the Mamelukes can pierce and most likely kill. Edge Mamelukes.'' Demigod added.
''I have to agree all the way, it's also more technologically advanced compared to the Sasanians. Mamlukes take this one.'' Rice Man concluded.
In body armor, the edge goes to the Mameluke Cavalrymen.
''When considering horse armor however, things are different as the Sasanians incorporated steel scale mail for their stallions which protects them from almost everything the Mamelukes are bringing it minus the bow and mace. Edge Sasanians.'' DAM said.
''Totally, the Mamelukes' horses have a larger area in which a lance will get through and easily kill them. The Kontos will have a fun time with that steel plated chainmail.'' Zivon added.
''Yep, I agree. Edge to the Sasanian Cataphracts.'' Demigod said.
''What Demigod said, the Sasanians' horses take this all the damn way.'' Rice Man concluded.
In horse armor, the edge goes to the Sasanian Cataphracts.
Coming up, Metal Harbinger will gauge the x-factors of the warriors and then our battle between the Middle East's most feared horsemen begins!
XXXXXX
Welcome back to the fight club. Here we tested the weapons, body armor, and horse armor of two Middle Eastern cavalry warriors to determine who is deadliest.
For short range weapons, both the Mameluke sword and Sasanian longsword were determined to be equally effective.
''The Mameluke sword may have completely won this comparison because while it may work best on horseback and foot as well, the Sasanian longsword hits much harder, causing more trauma and will decimate anyone no foot. In the end it had to be even due to these circumstances.'' DAM explained.
Edge: Even
For mid-range weapons, both the Mameluke lance and Kontos proved to be equally lethal and deadly.
''Both lances have their pros and cons. The Mameluke hits much harder, the Kontos is much longer putting these two on an even playing field.'' Zivon explained.
Edge: Even
For long range weapons, the Tartar Recurve Bow and Sasanian Composite Bow proved to be equally lethal in armor penetration and kill ability.
''It will all fall upon the individual horseman wielding his bow. Both bows are similar in construction, design, and power.'' Demigod explained.
Edge: Even
For special weapons, the Mameluke mace and Sasanian mace matched each other kill for kill.
''Both are essentially the same weapon, the Mameluke mace can cause more damage with those spikes while the Sasanian mace weighs a tad bit less making it easier to use. Both can destroy the opposing armor no problem.'' Rice Man explained.
Edge: Even
For body armor, the steel plated chainmail of the Mamelukes proved overall more protective and technologically advanced than the Sasanian riveted chainmail.
''Both have steel helmets, but the added protection of the steel plates in the Mamelukes' chainmail is what gives them the edge.'' DAM explained.
Edge: Mameluke Cavalrymen
And finally, for horse armor the steel scale mail of the Sasanian steeds proved more protective than the steel plated chainmail of the Mameluke horse.
''It's easy, full on steel scales against chainmail with steel plates provides overall better and more protection for your horse. It's Sasanians all the way for this one.
Edge: Sasanian Cataphracts
And now, Metal Harbinger will gauge the x-factors of our warriors.
''Time for me to spread the sickness.'' Said the Metalhead.
''First up is training and this one had to go to the Sasanian Cataphracts because they were born and bred warriors compared to the Mamelukes who were mainly mercenaries or slaves. The Sasanian took it with an 89 to the Mamelukes with an 86.''
''For physicality this was even all the way and why? Both are nearly the same height and weight, plus they wear some very heavy armor that would take a lot to get used to. Both score an 84 for this.''
''Up next is endurance and both these cavalry forces come from the harsh deserts of the Middle East. Imagine having to ride around on a horse with all that armor on? Both sides score a 90 each.''
''Fourth is tactics and this is one went to the Mamelukes because they defeated the feared and infamous Mongols by using their own favorite tactic against them and completely decimated them. The Mamelukes have an 85 to the Sasanians' 83.''
For intimidation these were two of the most heavily armed and armored shock troops who would charge you head on in a massive formation which is something I don't think anyone would want to see facing them. 90 each.''
''Last but not least, we have ferocity and the Mamlukes and Sasanians battled the most powerful empires of their time. The Mamlukes took on the Mongols while the Sasanians took on the Byzantine empire. However, the Mamlukes take a slight lead with a 92 because they had a reputation of being undefeated until Napoleon came along. The Sasanians scored an 89.''
Our panel has finished finished their weapons testing and armor. Now, with the x-factors all plugged in Metal will now run the simulator one-thousand times to determine our winner pitting 5 Mameluke Cavalrymen against 5 Sasanian Cataphracts.
Who will emerge victorious in a battle of the Middle East's most feared horsemen?
''In the end, only one will rise above the other. Let's see who takes it.'' Metal said pressing the button.
XXXXXX
We are taken to a very dry desert on the Sinai Peninsula and we see 5 Mamelukes riding through the area armed to the teeth. Recently they had gotten wind that an invading Mongol army was fast approaching and these men were sent by the Sultan to meet gather intelligence on the enemy strength in numbers.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 5
They continue riding into the desert until they stop to take a moment's rest and after a few minutes they hear the sound of horses galloping in the distance.
The lead Mameluke looks on towards a nearby dune and from there emerges 5 men armored in chainmail and riding horses clad in steel scale armor. On request from their leader, these 5 Sasanian Cataphracts were sent to assist the Mongols in defeating the Mamelukes and in return the Mongols would give Egypt to the Sasanians.
Sasanian Cataphracts: 5
Both sides eye each other wearily sensing a battle brewing. The Sasanian leader yells for his men to charge while drawing his longsword and they all charge down the sand dune ready to defeat the Egyptians.
Seeing this, the lead Mameluke orders his two men armed with bows to take aim and fire with two Sasanians doing the same thing as them.
The Mamelukes however, were faster with stringing their bows and unleash two arrows straight at their opponents and one of the Sasanian archers takes an arrow straight through his chainmail veil hitting him square in the face before he could fire off his arrow killing him. His body falling off the horse with a thud on the sandy ground.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 5 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 4
Undeterred at the loss of his comrade, the other Sasanian archer lets his arrow fly and luckily it manages to hit a Mameluke archer in the throat killing him.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 4 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 4
The two forces fast approach each other with their weapons drawn and they all unleash mighty battle cries. The two sides meet and everyone finds themselves in their own fights.
Egyptian battles it out with a Cataphract and the Sasanian goes to take his Kontos and moves in to gallop behind the Mameluke hoping to get a kill.
The Mameluke manages to out pace the Sasanian and taking his lance he quickly brings it up and impales the Sassanid Persian horseman straight through the gut making him cough up blood.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 4 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 3
Seeing his comrade die, the Sasanian archer makes a one in a billion shot by shooting his bow sending an arrow straight into the Mameluke's eye socket. Enough force going into the arrow to knock him off his horse.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 3 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 3
Elsewhere the Mameluke leader engages a Sasanian who tries to bring his longsword into try and knock him off his horse but the Egyptian leader's better sword for cavalry combat plays in his favor and he ducks under the swing of the longsword and swings his own sword but the blade bounces off the Sasanian's chainmail.
The blow only serves to anger the Sassanid Persian and just as he goes to turn his horse around to try and get the Mameluke another Egyptian rides up to him and swings his mace at his head.
The attack having knocked the Sasanian off his horse sending him to the sand with a smashed open head that spills out blood.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 3 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 2
Turning to face his comrade the Egyptian leaders smiles and gives him a nod but before his cohort could react the Sasanian leader rides by and with his longsword completely severs the Egyptian's head sending it to the ground. A large torrent of blood spraying from the open wound.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 2 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 2
Growling in anger at seeing his man die in front of him, the Egyptian gives chase and the two of them ride off into the desert.
Elsewhere, the the other remaining Mameluke continues his back and forth struggle against a Sasanian as both men continue to ride by another with their swords only to score no blows respectively. The two prepare for one more ride by and unseen to the Mameluke.
The Mameluke however, was doing the same with his own lance and as the two men ride toward one another they both draw their lances at the same time and almost in sync they impale one another in the heart.
Their dead bodies and horses colliding sending both corpses and steeds to the ground from the impact.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 1 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 1
Back with the last remaining horsemen we see the two of them continuing their ride through the desert. The Sasanian was keeping a considerable distance away from his Egyptian enemy thanks to his horse being faster on it's feet. Looking back at the Mameluke he sees him with his sword drawn and deciding that running away won't do anything he turns his horse around and charges back.
Drawing his longsword the two men gallop towards each other at full speeds and when they come within reach they both swing their respective swords at each other and they both land impressive blows on each other that knocks them both off their horses.
Both men grunt in pain as they impact the ground and in unison they get up and recover from their landing. The Mameluke does not hesitate as he picks his sword up and charges straight at the Sasanian ready to kill him.
The Sasanian responds by rushing forward with his sword held protectively in front of him and both men meet in a clash of steel. They press their swords against the other's and duel for control of the situation.
A moment would pass and seeing this go nowhere, the Sasanian quickly shoots his head forward headbutting the Egyptian.
The blow sends him staggering backwards while holding his nose in pain. Taking advantage of this the Sassanid Persian thrusts his longsword forth and manages to get it into the Mameluke's chainmail portion of his armor cutting into his skin.
Yelping in pain, the Mameluke fights through it and tries to pull the longsword out but the Sasanian wasn't having any of it and shoves the sword deeper into his body making the Egyptian give out a cry of pain.
Even with the pain he was in, the Egyptian fights through it and backhands the Sasanian causing him to let go of his sword. With his sword gone, the Sasanian reaches for his mace strapped to his side and goes in for a wild flurry of swings hoping to catch the Egyptian in an attack.
Jumping back from the swings the Mameluke spots his own mace that fell off his horse from their earlier moment. Smirking, he takes a hand full of dirt and tosses it at the Sasanian's exposed area of his veil.
Grunting from the sand in his eyes the Sasanian drops his mace to rub it out unaware of what happens next. After rubbing the sand out he opens his eyes only for the Mameluke to swing his mace downward completely shattering his knee cap making him scream in sheer agony.
The Egyptian swings again and this time the mace hits him in the side smashing through his rib cage and is shoved to the ground. With his ribs smashed he coughs blood staining his veil and he can only look at the victorious Egyptian standing over him.
His opponent down the Egyptian puts his mace away and with his sword and looks his downed opponent in the eyes through his veil.
Finally, he brings his sword down and slices the Sasanian's head from where his eyes were exposed with the blade getting stuck halfway into his skull spurting blood.
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 1 - Sasanian Cataphracts: 0
Yanking his sword from the skull and having won the battle the Mameluke raises his sword into the air shouting in victory for the Sultanate.
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Winner: Mameluke Cavalryman
Mameluke Cavalrymen: 527
Mameluke Sword: 110
Mameluke Lance: 154
Tartar Recurve Bow: 100
Mameluke Mace: 163
Sasanian Cataphracts: 473
Sasanian Longsword: 109
Kontos: 153
Sasanian Composite Bow: 100
Sasanian Mace: 111
X-Factors
Training: 86/Training: 89
Physicality: 84/Physicality: 84
Endurance: 90/Endurance: 90
Tactics: 85/Tactics: 83
Intimidation: 90/Intimidation: 90
Ferocity: 92/Ferocity: 89
Body Armor Failure Rate
Mameluke Helmet: 2% - Steel Helmet: 2%
Steel Plated Chainmail: 9% - Riveted Chainmail: 11%
Horse Armor Failure Rate
Steel Plated Chainmail: 10% - Steel Scale Mail: 7%
Following a brutal back and forth struggle between two fearsome cavalry warriors. It would be the Mamelukes who emerge victorious with a close 52.7% compared to the Sasanian's 47.3%. It was thanks to their superior sword and the better piercing power of their lance that carried the day for them. However, the Sasaniand did not make this an easy win as they were better trained and matched the Egyptians kill for kill with all their weapons.
''This was a difficult battle to resolve. It just came down to the small quirks the Mamelukes had going for them like their sword and their more powerful lance, plus their Tartar's superior penetrating power.'' DAM explained.
''I'm not surprised. The Mamelukes were undefeated in battle and they certainly weren't going to let the Sasanians beat them. Good battle.'' Zivon commented.
''Well, I guess it's not too surprising. The Sasanians were great and put up a strong showing but they lost countless times against the Byzantine so they were definitely going to come up short against the Mamelukes.'' Demigod added.
''The Mamelukes showed the Sasanians that they aren't to be messed with and they made the same mistakes as the Mongols did before by picking a fight with them. It's a great battle but the Mamelukes showed the Sasanians why they're undefeated in battle. Congratulations to the forces of the Sultanate.'' Rice Man concluded.
(The victorious Mameluke is seen riding back to his kingdom so he can warn his leaders that the Sasanians are in cahoots with the Mongols. Strap to his horse's side is a Kontos and a Sasanian longsword as proof of an impending invasion.)
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Next time on Deadliest Warrior: Rice Man's Edition. Two of the 18th century's most feared and fearsome infantry soldiers engage in battle.
Swedish Caroleans: King Charles XII's disciplined and loyal soldiers who stuck by his side until the Swedish empire's end.
vs.
Hessians: German auxiliaries who fought with unmatched ferocity during the American revolution.
WHO...IS...DEADLIEST?!
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A/N: Sorry for the delay readers, I've been focusing on other fics but I managed to find some spare time to finish up this anticipated battle. There isn't anything else I want to say except that I hope you're excited for the next one and I've decided to do Taliban vs. Islamic State of Iraq and Los Zetas Cartel vs. Medellin Cartel and will throw them somewhere in this season. This is PFC Rice Man and I will see you next time.