swordbreaker

A swordbreaker is a type of dagger or short sword specifically designed to break an opponent's sword. Its most distinguishing feature is a prominent crossguard, often shaped with a notch or a series of notches, intended to catch and trap the blade of an incoming sword. This would then allow the wielder to apply leverage and snap the opponent's weapon.

Swordbreakers saw use in various historical periods, particularly during the late medieval and Renaissance eras when sword fighting was common. They were not a primary weapon for most soldiers but rather a specialized tool for duels or close-quarters combat where disarming an opponent could be advantageous. The effectiveness of a swordbreaker relied heavily on the skill of the user and the specific design of both the swordbreaker and the sword being attacked.

Designs varied, with some featuring elaborate or reinforced crossguards. The term itself encompasses a range of weapons with this particular defensive and offensive capability. While historical examples exist and are studied by weapons enthusiasts and historians, the swordbreaker is not a commonly used weapon in modern times. Its existence is primarily a testament to the ingenuity of weapon design in response to evolving combat techniques.