Short spear vs Long spear vs Charging Lancer

[Glactophagos]

Am I correct in assuming the classifications Short spear, Long Spear and Charging Lancer describe more/something other than just the size of the weapon? Perhaps the way it is handled?
I ask because I'm currently looking at list 4403 Tarim Basin States and can't help noticing that the description reads 'Tarim Basin cavalry were equipped with lance and bow but may have placed greater emphasis on the bow', only to find that in the actual list they get short spear.
I have no problem with that, other than an esthetical one (which figures will I use: short spear and bow or lance and bow), but I'm trying to understand the reasoning behind it.

Huub

[lionheartrjc]

Basically yes.  Charging lancer is basically for troops using the impetus of the charge to supplement the lance/spear.  Long spear is generally used for troops that "fenced" with the lance/spear and were less reliant on the impetus of the charge.  Short spear is for cavalry who might throw or retain the spear.  It is not particularly scientific.

Richard

[Glactophagos]

Cheers!