Weight and grip of sarissa and shield in macedonian phalanx

[triarius354]

Hi,

I have few questions. Maybe Macedonian reenactors out there (or someone else with theoretical/pracitcal knowledge) could answer?

1) is the weight of sarissa of similar size (say six foot) considerably greater than the pike? What about the sarissa's large spear butt?
2) is it possible to hold sarissa in position similar to medieval/reneissance pikemen (on the level of shoulders or head)?
Are there any evidence pointing to such practice? (only representation of phalangites holding sarissa's in "normal" (low) grip I found is plaque from Pergamon showing battle with Galatians (?))
3) is it possible in this position with sarissa only, or with the shield also? Is the weight of both not too great?
4) and finally - your opinion about "locked shields" formation, where soldier occupies only 0,5 m (Warry, WITCW p.73)? Polybios attests only three foot (18,28-30); are there any evidence about even closer formation?

I'm currently arguing against both "high" grip and 0,5 metre formation on Polish ancient military history forum, and would like to know your opinion. 8)

Sorry for any language mistakes
Regards,