Our messers are modeled on large pieces, so they can be successfully used, for example, in combination with a buckler instead of a classic sword. The design of the weapon is adapted to ensure good deflection and resistance to chipping, in other words, to specific HEMA conditions. The low weight has been selected to reduce hand fatigue and ensure safety during intense training. The typical knife structure with a flat shank and covers is also preserved. As practice has shown that thin lining strips will always eventually crack after intensive use, our messers are replaced with a non-cracking material with a wood texture, which also ensures a better grip in thick gloves.
Messer is known under many, mainly German, names, such as langessmesser, grossmesser, bauerwehr or hauswehr. It was an extremely popular weapon between the 14th and 16th centuries in all German-speaking countries and those where German colonists or merchants willingly settled, such as the Czech Republic and Poland. It was almost obligatory equipment in the home of every townsman and free peasant, and over time, knights also became fond of cords. Technically, a cutlass is a large combat knife. Therefore, it was often used successfully instead of a sword, which was the reason for numerous disputes between sword and knife manufacturers over the right to produce these weapons. Another characteristic feature of the cutlass was the extended last rivet of the handle, the so-called „nagel”, which was often the only hand protection. If a cutlass was used without a shield, this largely determined the method of its use.
