Katzbalger

The Katzbalger (also Landsknecht sword) is a European short sword of the 16th century. The name comes from the comparison of the tight close combat where the sword was used, with the match-ups, the " tussle " of cats.

History

The Katzbalger was a widespread melee weapon of the mercenaries of the 16th century.

The Katzbalger has a relatively short, wide blade with a length of about 50 to 55 cm. The blade runs to place narrower toward and has a rounded tip. The place is ground very thin, which is often invisible from the view of the wide side. The parry is often carried out S-shaped and filled to the Parierbügelenden with small knobs. In some versions, a hand guard is attached that runs to the fan-shaped elaborate pommel. The booklet ( handle ) is made of wood, coated with leather sheath made of wood. Often minor subjects are mounted in these sheaths, in which knives, forks and awl could be carried (cutlery sheaths ). By 1570, changed the shape of the handles. From about 1590 the blades were longer and the handle fitted with a cage. They were influenced by the Italian Schiavona, which then also replaced the Katzbalger. Originals are now in the Museum of Blades Solingen, in the British Museum in London and at the Historical Museum Dresden.