Did you know that the halberd, that gigantic pole-arm axe wielded by Knights in shiny armor, is the original swiss army knife? It may not be as versatile (or as pocket-sized) as the current swiss army knife but the halberd in it’s prime was definitely used for multiple purposes. Before it became the weapon of choice for the Swiss Royal Guard it was used for chopping wood, prying open plate armor, smashing open plate armor, stabbing knights in the neck, and chopping people to pieces.

Lately the halberd has become more of a decorative weapon. The axe head has gotten smaller and is usually adorned with fancy golden etchings and stuff like that. In it’s prime it was a fantasticly powerful weapon. The length would keep the opponent at bay and the blade would deliver striking blows. Today it is one of those martial arts weapons that gets little publicity but is nobler for it.