KATZBALGER

A 'Katzbalger' is a short Renaissance arming sword, notable for its sturdy build and a distinctive s-shaped or figure-8 shaped guard. Measuring 75-85 cm long and weighing 1-2 kg, it the was the signature blade of the ''Landsknecht''.
There are several different explanations about the origin of the name "Katzbalger": one is that it comes from the custom of carrying a sword without a scabbard, held only by a cat's skin (German word ''Katze'' means "cat", while ''Balg'' means the skin (fur) of an animal. ''Katzbalger'' means a piece made of a cat’s skin). However, this is rather unlikely. Another theory is that the word derives from ''balgen'' (brawling), and refers to intense, close-quarter combat like fights between feral cats. The most common translation is "cat-gutter." Katzbalger also means "Suitable for the fight".
A katzbalger would often be used by pikemen, archers, and crossbowmen as a last resort if the enemy were to draw too close for bows or pikes to be effective.