landsknecht katzbalger 148829102The flamboyantly dressed German Landsknecht mercenary led a harsh, ruthless life. They were famous for their huge, two meter long Flamberge sword. After the Flamberge was used to break through the enemy's line of pikemen, a smaller, one handed sword was used for the ensuing close range engagement the Katzbalger. The Katzbalger (roughly translates to "cat's belly") was highly stylized and designed as an effective cutting and thrusting sword. From the