Edged weapon

An edged weapon relies on human muscle power, which may be applied as a single movement (e.g., a sword thrust) or after the accumulation of energy (e.g., an arrow released by drawing a bow). The energy is applied to the target with a slashing motion (e.g., a saber sweep) or a thrust (e.g., a thrown or jabbed spear).

While these weapons go into prehistory, they still can be deadly, but limited range, from direct contact to tens, or low humdreds, of meters. Their use is simple and intuitive as long as the wielder is not facing a skilled opponent with a similar weapon, or a weapon that does not rely on muscle power.