The sides of the wedge were of equal length, so that they could march either way.
Egbert's place was at the apex of the wedge intended generally for attack.

He carried no spear, nor did those at the other corners, as they would be covered by those beside and behind them; he was armed with a huge battle-axe.

The other leaders were also chosen for great personal strength.

Edmund's place was on horseback in the middle of the wedge, whence he could overlook the whole and direct their movements.
In three weeks the men could perform their simple movements to perfection, and at a sound from Edmund's horn would run in as when scattered in pursuit or flight, or could form from line into the wedge, without the least confusion, every man occupying his assigned place.
The men were delighted with their new exercises, and felt confident that the weight of the solid mass thickly bristling with spears would break through the Danish line without difficulty, or could draw off from the field in perfect order and safety in case of a defeat, however numerous their foes.

The two front lines were to thrust with their pikes, the others keeping their long spears immovable to form a solid hedge.