art-of-swords:

Evolution of the Celtic sword hilt

Some of these can be seen as ornamental (or ceremonial) (such as the 6th from the left, on the top row), as the metal would be too weak to support a strike, or even to balance the sword properly. This is further supported by some of the examples on the left of the bottom row, as they share common elements and themes with ceremonial helmets of the same era, such as in this example: http://image.forumcommunity.it/3/1/8/6/0/7/0/1256057480.jpg The examples to the right of the bottom row are perhaps some of the most functional designs in this set, as they appear to be capable of pommel strikes, as well as good balance.