The shape of edged weapons may vary from civilization to civilization, depending on their cultural inclinations and needs. However, there is bound to be similarities between civilizations. In the context of weaponry, we would be talking about the martial culture of a particular civilization. Even though the civilizations were halfway across the world from each other and perhaps even hundreds of years apart. This was how it was, and how it always will be.
Weapons were developed for a reason, usually to counter the other guy’s armaments and armour. As such, they are tailored to the requirements and techniques of the user. One such weapon is the katzbalger, a “short” sword that became the signature weapon of the Landsknechts during Renaissance Europe. The Landsknechts were mercenaries and were highly regarded soldiers of their time. This sword had a double-edged, straight blade averaging 24 inches in length. Weighing in at 0.8 to 1.5kg, this weapon had a broad blade optimised for cutting and slashing. It was often used as a secondary weapon, with the primary one being a polearm or even a montante (greatsword).
Armour was still extant during this time even though firearms were becoming more familiar. The katzbalger had to be short enough to be wielded in one hand during close-quarters combat, when the polearm or montante was impractical to use. Since most of the enemy would have been unarmoured, there was no need for a stiff, pointy tip. This sword was designed for cut and slash action, particularly towards unprotected areas of the body. In case of armoured opponents, it would have been logical to cut below their waist.
In the Malay World, there exists a parallel to the katzbalger. It is a short sword known as the “anak buaya” or little crocodile for the yelman or false edge that makes the sword look like a crocodile’s head. This was a relatively recent weapon, the first examples came into existence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It obviously evolved from its longer-bladed cousin known as the pedang buaya berenang or “swimming crocodile” sword.
This weapon was adapted for close quarters “hit-and-run” attacks against the enemy. Therefore, even though these swords were short and sturdy, they had the cutting and thrusting ability of a full-length sword. What they lacked in reach, they made up in speed and agility. Their blades were 21”-23” in length, and they had knucklebows to protect the hand of the wielder. Because of their size, these weapons can be easily concealed for clandestine missions. Scabbards were usually made using cheap, lightweight wood and seemed disposable. The scabbards were probably disposed of once the weapon was drawn, as there is a saying among the practitioners, “once drawn, they will draw blood.” These “little crocodiles” lived up to their name and fearsome reputation and are continued to be made to this day.
