Scramasax

The Scramasax is a European bladed weapon[?], vaguely resembling a butcher knife or a machete. Its blade is gently curving, usually tapering to a point, sporting a false edge on the back up to a third of the whole length.

The whole size could range from as little as half a foot to a full yard - but larger blades could hardly be considered knives at all.

Customarily worn by Lombard warriors as a tool, a last resort weapon, and sign of rank from the 4th century AD to the 9th century AD, it was probably well known to many other Germanic tribes around Europe too.

Being cruder than a full fledged sword, yet nontheless as effective against a foe, it became a staple with poorer soldiers, and it was still a weapon of choice for English bowmen as late as 1450.

See also: Backsword.