Landsknecht accessories
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
Landsknecht accessories complete the picture of the colourful mercenary corps of the 15th and 16th centuries – from the authentic cowhide kidney pouch to the imposing carbon steel halberd, which effectively rounds off any re-enactment portrayal.
What does a Landsknecht’s equipment consist of? An overview
A Landsknecht’s equipment is divided into three core areas: pole weapons such as halberds in various historical variants, short weapons such as the characteristic Katzbalger, and leather goods such as the late medieval kidney pouch. These are complemented by practical accessories such as the two-piece ash wood shaft for halberd heads without a shaft.
Historically speaking, Landsknechts were the professional foot soldiers of the late 15th and 16th centuries – originally modelled on the Swiss Reisläufer, they developed into the most feared mercenary troops in Europe. Their equipment was both functional and representative: halberds and pikes for close combat in the battle line, the Katzbalger as a sidearm in confined spaces, and practical leather bags for everyday life in the camp. It is the interplay of weapon, costume and accessory that makes for a convincing Landsknecht portrayal. The range covers all entry-level options – from around €31 for leather bags up to just under €127 for certified display swords.
The Katzbalger – the Landsknecht’s sidearm and display combat weapon
The Katzbalger is the most characteristic distinguishing feature of the armed Landsknecht: a short, broad sword with an S-shaped crossguard, designed for close-quarters combat in confined spaces – where long polearms failed. The name is thought to derive from the fierce, close-quarters fighting known as ‘Katzenbalgen’.
There are two variants to choose from in the range: the Katzbalger dagger (approx. €76) with scabbard, made from carbon steel with historically accurate craftsmanship – ideal for re-enactment and display. The second option is the Renaissance sword type Katzbalger SK-C (approx. €127), which is specifically certified for use in exhibition combat and meets the safety requirements for exhibition combat events. Both variants are supplied with a scabbard. Carbon steel is the historically authentic blade material – durable with careful maintenance, but more sensitive to moisture than modern stainless steel.
Cowhide kidney pouches – the authentic everyday companion
The kidney pouch is one of the best-documented accessories of the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Its characteristic kidney-shaped silhouette allowed it to be carried securely on a belt without slipping – practical for soldiers, merchants and citizens alike. It is an indispensable detail for Landsknecht re-enactments.
| Variant | Colour | Price | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small kidney pouch | Brown | approx. €31 | Entry level |
| Small kidney bag | Black | approx. €31 | Entry |
| Large bum bag | Brown | approx. €39 | Reenactment |
| Large kidney bag | Black | approx. €39 | Reenactment |
All four versions are made from 100% cowhide leather and feature an adjustable strap that can be adapted to fit various medieval belts. The robust construction makes these pouches ideal everyday companions at medieval markets, re-enactment events and in LARP – not just as decoration, but as genuinely practical belt pouches. Those wishing to expand their collection will also find medieval pouches and other leather goods.
A direct comparison of late medieval halberd types
Halberds were the main weapon of the Landsknecht in the battle line. As a combination of spear, axe and hook, they offered versatile applications against both mounted and foot soldiers. The range includes three main historical types – all heads without a shaft can be combined with the matching ash wood shaft:
Helmbarte / Halberd
The classic form with an axe head, spike and rear hook – crafted based on archaeological finds from the late Middle Ages. Available with and without a shaft, as well as in a compact 118 cm version. Made from carbon steel; suitable for re-enactment, display and exhibition combat.
Mordax with hammer head
A heavy-duty variant featuring an additional hammer head on the reverse – historically documented from the 14th century onwards. Heavier and more imposing than the Helmbarte; made from carbon steel, ideal for impressive re-enactment performances and as a display weapon.
English halberd
A variant typical of the English-Burgundian region, without a shaft, solidly crafted from carbon steel. A slimmer head with different proportions to German types; ideal for English re-enactment groups and specific national portrayals.
The two-piece ash wood shaft – historically accurate and easy to transport
Anyone purchasing a halberd blade without a shaft will need a suitable shaft for assembly. The two-piece ash wood shaft (approx. €42) is the historically correct choice for this: in the Middle Ages and early modern period, ash wood was the preferred material for pole weapons, as it offers an optimal combination of strength, elasticity and light weight.
The shaft is approx. 190 cm long and designed in two sections – a practical advantage for transport and storage that makes everyday life at events much easier. At the lower end, it measures approx. 3.4 cm in diameter and tapers towards the top. It can be combined with various halberd heads from the range, allowing for the gradual assembly of a display. Occasional rubbing with linseed oil or wood wax, as well as protection from waterlogging, will preserve the wood’s strength in the long term. Further pole weapons and complementary weapon replicas can also be found in the shop.
Halberds compared: Classic Helmbarte, battle axe and English variant
- Axe head + spike + hook
- Historical: 14th–16th century, widely used
- Available with and without a shaft
- Carbon steel, approx. €50
- Suitable for: Re-enactment, decoration, exhibition combat
- Classic, versatile landschnecht shape
- Axe head + point + hammer head on the reverse
- Historical: from the 14th century, specialised combat weapon
- Heavier and more powerful than the Helmbarte
- Carbon steel, approx. €109
- Suitable for: decoration, impressive re-enactment displays
- Impressive display weapon
- Specifically English variant, without shaft
- Historical: Late Middle Ages, Anglo-Burgundian region
- Slender head, different proportions to German types
- Carbon steel, solidly crafted, approx. €50
- Suitable for: Display, specific national re-enactments
- Ideal for English re-enactment groups
Quality levels: From beginners to professional exhibition fighters
Kidney pouches made from cowhide leather (€31–39): The ideal introduction to Landsknecht reenactment. Authentic leather pouches for medieval market visits, photo shoots or as an addition to an existing costume. Ready for immediate use, four variants in brown and black.
Halberd heads and ash wood shafts (€42–50): For active market participants and re-enactors who need an imposing pole weapon for their performance. Carbon steel blades and solid ash wood shafts – historically accurate and durable for regular use.
Katzbalger dagger and SK-C certified Katzbalger for exhibition fighting (€76–127): For re-enactment fighters and exhibition combatants. The SK-C certified Katzbalger meets the safety requirements for exhibition fighting events; the dagger impresses with its intricate craftsmanship and scabbard. Both items are designed for intensive, continuous use.
In addition to these accessories, the shop offers a full range of Landsknecht clothing for men, Landsknecht dresses for women, as well as Landsknecht headgear, Landsknecht shoes and Landsknecht armour. With these categories, you can put together a complete, historically accurate representation of the 15th and 16th centuries.
Caring for your Landsknecht accessories: treating leather, steel and wood correctly
The three main materials in the range require different but straightforward care routines:
- Cowhide leather (kidney pouches): Rub in leather grease regularly, protect from prolonged dampness, store in a dry place – this keeps the material supple and tear-resistant. After getting wet, allow to air-dry slowly; never place directly on a heater.
- Carbon steel (blades): Wipe dry after use and lightly oil. Carbon steel rusts more quickly than stainless steel and rewards careful treatment with a long service life. The sheaths supplied protect the blades from mechanical damage and should always be used.
- Ash wood shaft: Treat occasionally with linseed oil or wood wax and protect from waterlogging – this maintains strength and prevents cracks.
With the Landsknecht accessories from Vehi Mercatus – from handmade cowhide kidney bags and halberds in historical styles to SK-C-certified Katzbalger – you can put together a complete, authentic representation of the 15th and 16th centuries. Browse our range now and find the perfect item for your next medieval market, re-enactment event or as an impressive decoration.
Frequently asked questions
The Katzbalger is a short, broad sword with a characteristic S-shaped crossguard, which was the typical sidearm of the Landsknechte in the 16th century. The name is thought to derive from the close, fierce hand-to-hand combat. It is available in our range as a dagger with a scabbard (approx. €76) and as an SK-C-certified display sword (approx. €127) – both versions are based on historical models from the early 16th century.
Yes, the two-piece ash wood shaft (approx. 190 cm, approx. €42) is designed as a suitable accessory for halberd heads without a shaft. It is made from solid ash wood – historically the typical material for pole weapons – and can be combined with various halberd heads from the range. The two-piece design makes transport and storage considerably easier.
Not all products are approved for stage combat. The Renaissance Katzbalger is explicitly certified as SK-C and is suitable for stage combat events. The halberd heads and the Katzbalger dagger, on the other hand, are designed for re-enactment and decoration. If you have specific questions regarding suitability for stage combat, we recommend checking the respective product details.
Cowhide kidney pouches should be treated regularly with a suitable leather grease to maintain suppleness and prevent cracking. Protect from prolonged dampness and, if they do get wet, allow them to dry slowly in the air – never directly on a radiator. Storing them in a dry place whilst maintaining their shape significantly extends their lifespan.
The products are versatile: kidney bags and halberds are ideal for visits to medieval markets and re-enactment events relating to the 15th and 16th centuries. The SK-C Katzbalger is approved for active display combat. All items are also suitable as high-quality wall decorations or for film and photo productions seeking an authentic portrayal of the Landsknecht era.