Though the Aztecs were skilled metal workers, they crafted metal objects only from gold, silver, copper, and bronze. Iron and steel were unknown until the arrival of the Spaniards.

Spanish swords were not necessarily superior to the Aztecs' obsidian- edged swords, and steel armor was cumbersome compared to the Aztecs' quilted cotton armor. Nevertheless, Aztec warriors were overwhelmed by the combined forces of the invading Spaniards and their indigenous allies and ultimately waged a losing battle.