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** '''Daggers and stilettos''': The user is, most likely, either a character in a period piece such as a medieval (or medieval fantasy) epic or a cloak-and-dagger story, or a cold-blooded killer. Possibly both. It doesn't necessarily mean a psycho, but if a difference is drawn between these and more generic knives, then it is usually that they're specifically meant for killing -- in the modern day, such a weapon would rarely appear outside of military special forces contexts.
** '''Kataras and punch daggers''': Outside of specifically South Asian settings, these are weapons of a particularly stylish street thug.
** '''Kataras and punch daggers''': Outside of specifically South Asian settings, these are weapons of a particularly stylish street thug.
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** '''[[MacheteMayhem Machetes]]''': The machete and related blades are used by characters who live wild, or have wild, untamed natures, calling back to its use in the wilderness. Usually used by an AntiHero, or an AxCrazy psycho killer. However, they can be used by anyone in a jungle setting, when used as a tool.
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** '''[[MacheteMayhem Machetes]]''': The machete and related blades are used by characters who live wild, or have wild, untamed natures, calling back to its use in the wilderness. Usually used by an AntiHero, or an AxCrazy psycho killer. However, there are two basic kinds of settings where they can be used by anyone in anyone: first, a jungle setting, when used as a tool.tool; second, a ZombieApocalypse. [[RemovingTheHeadOrDestroyingTheBrain For some reason]], a machete is just the right size for the job and may also be conveniently found as [[GardeningVarietyWeapon a gardening supply]], and the stresses suffered by the wielders usually allow them to check the AntiHero box anyway.
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** '''[[GatlingGood Gatling Gun]]''': A huge minigun is the favorite weapon of TheBigGuy, as well as some particularly intimidating villains.
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** '''[[GatlingGood Gatling Gun]]''': A huge minigun is the favorite weapon of TheBigGuy, as well as some particularly intimidating villains.[[TheBrute villains]].
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* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be [[SmartPeopleShoot mostly the province]] of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[UniqueProtagonistAsset the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
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* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': '''Guns''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be [[SmartPeopleShoot mostly the province]] of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[UniqueProtagonistAsset the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
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** '''[[SniperRifle Rifles]]''': Death from a distance. A favorite of the ColdSniper and other people looking to reach out and score a [[BoomHeadshot head shot]]. More badass [[ElitesAreMoreGlamorous elite types]] such as Special Forces or [[ItsRainingMen Paratroopers]] might have a shortened [[AceCustom carbine]] with a collapsible or folding stock and [[GunAccessories a few choice optics and accessories]].
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** '''[[SniperRifle Sniper Rifles]]''': Death from a distance. A favorite of the ColdSniper and other people looking to reach out and score a [[BoomHeadshot head shot]]. More badass [[ElitesAreMoreGlamorous elite types]] such as Special Forces or [[ItsRainingMen Paratroopers]] might have a shortened [[AceCustom carbine]] with a collapsible or folding stock and [[GunAccessories a few choice optics and accessories]].
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** '''[[GatlingGood Gatling Gun]]''': A huge minigun is the favorite weapon of TheBigGuy, as well as some particularly intimidating [[TheDragon Dragons]].
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** '''[[GatlingGood Gatling Gun]]''': A huge minigun is the favorite weapon of TheBigGuy, as well as some particularly intimidating [[TheDragon Dragons]].villains.
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* '''[[SufferTheSlings Slings]]''': They're usually associated with peasants, children, {{halfling}}s and primitive tribesman. Rarely an effective weapon in fiction, they are more likely to distract than cause real damage, [[Literature/TheBible David and Goliath]] aside. Historically, however, slings were very powerful weapons, more devastating and long-ranged than the bow, which was not well developed in some areas of the Ancient World.
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* '''[[SufferTheSlings Slings]]''': They're usually associated with peasants, children, {{halfling}}s and primitive tribesman.tribesmen. Rarely an effective weapon in fiction, they are more likely to distract than cause real damage, [[Literature/TheBible David and Goliath]] aside. Historically, however, slings were very powerful weapons, more devastating and long-ranged than the bow, which was not well developed in some areas of the Ancient World.
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** '''[[SinisterScimitar Scimitars, Sabers and other curved swords]]''': In Arabian or Pirate settings, this kind of sword is considered the "default" weapon and may be used by good and bad guys alike. Outside of those settings, however, it's almost always used by scary, intimidating characters or armies, following the logic of curved weapons detailed above.
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** '''[[SinisterScimitar Scimitars, Sabers and other curved swords]]''': In Arabian Arabian/Oriental or Pirate settings, this kind of sword is considered the "default" weapon and may be used by good and bad guys alike.alike. In more modern eras, it may mark a character as a (possibly former) military type, usually a cavalryman or an officer. Outside of those settings, however, it's almost always used by scary, intimidating characters or armies, following the logic of curved weapons detailed above.
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* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be mostly the province of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[UniqueProtagonistAsset the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
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* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be [[SmartPeopleShoot mostly the province province]] of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[UniqueProtagonistAsset the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
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** '''RayGun''': Also known as "blasters", those guns that fire rays, light, waves and other shiny stuff are a common element of ScienceFiction works (especially those set in outer space, where the bright plasma contrasts well with the mostly black background), effectively replacing traditional, gunpowder-based guns. In contemporary settings where they are more uncommon, one can find them in the hands of dangerous, superintelligent characters such as [[MadScientist mad scientists]] or [[AlienInvasion hostile alien invaders]].
** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style. In settings where they are less common, they're often hands of TheSmartGuy or SuperSoldier.
** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style. In settings where they are less common, they're often hands of TheSmartGuy or SuperSoldier.
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** '''RayGun''': Also known as "blasters", those guns that fire rays, light, waves and other shiny stuff are a common element of ScienceFiction works (especially those set in outer space, where the bright plasma contrasts well with the mostly black background), effectively replacing traditional, gunpowder-based guns. In contemporary settings where they are more uncommon, one can find them in the hands of dangerous, superintelligent [[SmartPeopleShoot superintelligent]] characters such as [[MadScientist mad scientists]] or [[AlienInvasion hostile alien invaders]].
** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style. In settings where they are less common, they're often in the hands of TheSmartGuy or SuperSoldier.
** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style. In settings where they are less common, they're often in the hands of TheSmartGuy or SuperSoldier.
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** '''[[AutomaticCrossbows Crossbows]]''': A favored weapon of a HunterOfMonsters, particularly [[VampireHunter vampire]] and [[DemonSlaying demon hunters]]. As opposed to their more classical counterparts, crossbows are not as strongly associated with elves and composed personalities and they exude a kind of professional air that ordinary bows don't; this might have something to do with the way they're used, [[FantasyGunControl being the closest you'll get to guns in most medieval settings]], and how they're much easier to conceal due to the smaller size. In addition, unlike bows, they tend to free up a hand, for some sort of melee weapon. Regardless, anyone who totes one of these babies around is most likely going to be some variety of badass. Occasionally, due to their ease of use compared to a standard bow, you may also see a noble using one of these. Also the favored ranged weapon of [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], being more metallic and technological than bows. In Chinese and Chinese-influenced fiction, crossbows are instead associated with TheSmartGuy, and specifically with the [[ArchetypalCharacter Archetypal Smart Guy]] Zhuge Liang (who [[UrbanLegend allegedly]] invented AutomaticCrossbows).
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** '''[[AutomaticCrossbows Crossbows]]''': A favored weapon of a HunterOfMonsters, particularly [[VampireHunter vampire]] and [[DemonSlaying demon hunters]]. As opposed to their more classical counterparts, crossbows are not as strongly associated with elves and composed personalities and they exude a kind of professional air that ordinary bows don't; this might have something to do with the way they're used, [[FantasyGunControl being the closest you'll get to guns in most medieval settings]], and how they're much easier to conceal due to the smaller size. In addition, unlike bows, they tend to free up a hand, for some sort of melee weapon. Regardless, anyone who totes one of these babies around is most likely going to be some variety of badass. Occasionally, due to their ease of use compared to a standard bow, you may also see a noble using one of these. Also the favored ranged weapon of [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], being more metallic and technological than bows. In Chinese and Chinese-influenced fiction, crossbows are instead [[SmartPeopleShoot associated with with]] TheSmartGuy, and specifically with the [[ArchetypalCharacter Archetypal Smart Guy]] Zhuge Liang (who [[UrbanLegend allegedly]] invented AutomaticCrossbows).
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** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style.
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** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style. In settings where they are less common, they're often hands of TheSmartGuy or SuperSoldier.
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* '''[[ArcherArchetype Bows]]''': Characters with composed personalities are archers. This again has roots in Tolkien, where the elves typically were depicted as being able to stay composed even in extreme duress. If the archer is a NatureHero, they're more likely to be a ForestRanger. The ActionGirl is just as likely to get a bow since archery has been a popular feminine sport since the Middle Ages. This lets [[GuysSmashGirlsShoot girls fight]] without getting [[WouldntHitAGirl too close to the action.]] The Sniper Rifle and other firearms can be modern day equivalents although [[TheStraightAndArrowPath Bows can still be seen.]]
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* '''[[ArcherArchetype '''[[AloofArcher Bows]]''': Characters with composed personalities are archers. This again has roots in Tolkien, where the elves typically were depicted as being able to stay composed even in extreme duress. If the archer is a NatureHero, they're more likely to be a ForestRanger. The ActionGirl is just as likely to get a bow since archery has been a popular feminine sport since the Middle Ages. This lets [[GuysSmashGirlsShoot girls fight]] without getting [[WouldntHitAGirl too close to the action.]] The Sniper Rifle and other firearms can be modern day equivalents although [[TheStraightAndArrowPath Bows can still be seen.]]
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Trope was cut/disambiguated due to cleanup
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** '''[[PowerFist Gauntlets and Such]]''' ...compromise with practicality. Though some have [[RedRightHand little choice in the matter]]. Alternatively, a weapon for massive [[TheBigGuy bruisers]], in which case they're another kind of '''[[DropTheHammer Hammer]]''' and signify [[BrutishCharacterBrutishWeapon a direct, brute-force attitude]].
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** '''[[PowerFist Gauntlets and Such]]''' ...compromise with practicality. Though some have [[RedRightHand little choice in the matter]]. Alternatively, a weapon for massive [[TheBigGuy bruisers]], in which case they're another kind of '''[[DropTheHammer Hammer]]''' '''Hammer''' and signify [[BrutishCharacterBrutishWeapon a direct, brute-force attitude]].
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Trope Drop The Hammer was cut/disambiguated due to cleanup
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* '''[[CarryABigStick Clubs]][=/=][[DropTheHammer Hammers]]''': [[BoisterousBruiser Big and brash]] characters, like a giant SmashMook or TheBigGuy, just need the bluntest weapon they can muster: A giant club, mallet, or mace. [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame Dwarves]] tend to like hammers, too; probably because they like forging so much. Size for size, hammers are heavier, slower, and harder hitting than axes. Smaller, more manageable versions are sometimes favored by paladins and priests; ''Dungeons and Dragons'' popularized this to the point where virtually all fantasy clergy are depicted with blunt weapons. Very large, possibly comically oversized warhammers are also favored by a number of CuteBruiser types in roleplaying video games. If a hammer is a mundane utility hammer, then the wielder is almost always AxCrazy. [[SavageSpikedWeapons Spiked maceheads are also very common for more violent characters to emphasize their brutality]].
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* '''[[CarryABigStick Clubs]][=/=][[DropTheHammer Hammers]]''': Clubs]]/Hammers''': [[BrutishCharacterBrutishWeapon Brutal and physically powerful characters]] such as TheBrute are frequently associated with crude and direct weaponry. [[BoisterousBruiser Big and brash]] characters, like a giant SmashMook or TheBigGuy, just need the bluntest weapon they can muster: A giant club, mallet, or mace. [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame Dwarves]] tend to like hammers, too; probably because they like forging so much. Size for size, hammers are heavier, slower, and harder hitting than axes. Smaller, more manageable versions are sometimes favored by paladins and priests; ''Dungeons and Dragons'' popularized this to the point where virtually all fantasy clergy are depicted with blunt weapons. Very large, possibly comically oversized warhammers are also favored by a number of CuteBruiser types in roleplaying video games. If a hammer is a mundane utility hammer, then the wielder is almost always AxCrazy. [[SavageSpikedWeapons Spiked maceheads are also very common for more violent characters to emphasize their brutality]].
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** '''{{Handguns}}''': The trusty handgun is a favorite of [[TheGunslinger Gunslingers]] of all stripes. If the setting is one in which everyone uses firearms, TheHero, the ProfessionalKiller and the BigBad are the most likely to use these. Any badass who uses a pistol will double up for some kickass GunsAkimbo. Unless it's a Western, or the character needs their other hand for something.
*** '''[[HandCannon Hand Cannons]]''': High recoil big frame handguns chambered for magnum pistol or rifle cartridges, Hand Cannons are much more powerful than ordinary pistols and the weapon of choice for ''Film/DirtyHarry'' type characters.
*** '''[[HandCannon Hand Cannons]]''': High recoil big frame handguns chambered for magnum pistol or rifle cartridges, Hand Cannons are much more powerful than ordinary pistols and the weapon of choice for ''Film/DirtyHarry'' type characters.
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** '''{{Handguns}}''': The trusty handgun is a favorite of [[TheGunslinger Gunslingers]] and {{Professional Killer}}s of all stripes. If the setting is one in which everyone uses firearms, TheHero, the ProfessionalKiller TheHero and the BigBad are the most likely to use these. Any badass who uses a pistol will double up for some kickass GunsAkimbo. Unless it's a Western, or the character needs their other hand for something.
*** '''[[HandCannon Hand Cannons]]''': High recoil big frame handguns chambered for magnum pistol or rifle cartridges, Hand Cannons are much more powerful than ordinary pistols and the weapon of choice for ''Film/DirtyHarry'' typecharacters.characters and {{Professional Killer}}s.
*** '''[[HandCannon Hand Cannons]]''': High recoil big frame handguns chambered for magnum pistol or rifle cartridges, Hand Cannons are much more powerful than ordinary pistols and the weapon of choice for ''Film/DirtyHarry'' type
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** '''{{Handguns}}''': The trusty handgun is a favorite of [[TheGunslinger Gunslingers]] of all stripes. If the setting is one in which everyone uses firearms, TheHero and the BigBad are the most likely to use these. Any badass who uses a pistol will double up for some kickass GunsAkimbo. Unless it's a Western, or the character needs their other hand for something.
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** '''{{Handguns}}''': The trusty handgun is a favorite of [[TheGunslinger Gunslingers]] of all stripes. If the setting is one in which everyone uses firearms, TheHero TheHero, the ProfessionalKiller and the BigBad are the most likely to use these. Any badass who uses a pistol will double up for some kickass GunsAkimbo. Unless it's a Western, or the character needs their other hand for something.
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* '''Whips''': Whips tend to be found in the hands of cowboys, swashbuckling characters, certain [[Franchise/{{Castlevania}} vampire slayers]], [[Franchise/IndianaJones archaeologists]], [[Comicbook/{{Catwoman}} female villains with a thing for tight leather]] and a dominatrix streak, brutal slave drivers, [[TortureTechnician torturers]]... and [[Franchise/AceAttorney prosecutors]].
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* '''Whips''': Whips tend to be found in the hands of cowboys, swashbuckling characters, [[TheBeastmaster beastmasters]], certain [[Franchise/{{Castlevania}} vampire slayers]], [[Franchise/IndianaJones archaeologists]], [[Comicbook/{{Catwoman}} female villains with a thing for tight leather]] and a dominatrix streak, brutal slave drivers, [[TortureTechnician torturers]]... and [[Franchise/AceAttorney prosecutors]].
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** '''[[PowerFist Gauntlets and Such]]''' ...compromise with practicality. Though some have [[RedRightHand little choice in the matter]]. Alternatively, a weapon for massive [[TheBigGuy bruisers]], in which case they're another kind of '''[[DropTheHammer Hammer]]''' and signify a direct, brute-force attitude.
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** '''[[PowerFist Gauntlets and Such]]''' ...compromise with practicality. Though some have [[RedRightHand little choice in the matter]]. Alternatively, a weapon for massive [[TheBigGuy bruisers]], in which case they're another kind of '''[[DropTheHammer Hammer]]''' and signify [[BrutishCharacterBrutishWeapon a direct, brute-force attitude.attitude]].
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Adding a wick.
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* '''[[TorchesAndPitchforks Pitchforks]]''': The official weapon of the unruly mob, this is normally used by a farmer or small-town folk defending his home. Shotguns and hunting rifles can also fill this niche in a modern setting. You may also see some [[BigRedDevil traditionalist]] [[OurDemonsAreDifferent infernals]] wielding pitchforks to prod the damned with.
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* '''[[TorchesAndPitchforks Pitchforks]]''': The official weapon of the unruly mob, this is normally used by a farmer or small-town folk defending his home. Shotguns and hunting rifles can also fill this niche in a modern setting. You may also see some [[BigRedDevil traditionalist]] [[OurDemonsAreDifferent infernals]] wielding [[DevilsPitchfork pitchforks to prod the damned with.with]].
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* '''[[MartialArtsStaff Staves/Staffs]]''': Favored weapon of either the TechnicalPacifist or martial artists, who wish to disable enemies non-lethally. Those trying for historical accuracy may have them appear in the hands of RobinHood and his merry men, or other persons legally or practically barred from possession of edged weapons for their close-range fighting needs.
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* '''[[MartialArtsStaff Staves/Staffs]]''': Favored weapon of either the TechnicalPacifist or martial artists, who wish to disable enemies non-lethally. Those trying for historical accuracy may have them appear in the hands of RobinHood Myth/RobinHood and his merry men, or other persons legally or practically barred from possession of edged weapons for their close-range fighting needs.
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o2
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** '''[[BayonetYa Bayonets]]''': The use of an unmounted bayonet marks a character as military -- active, retired, or [[RightWingMilitiaFanatic wannabe]]. Mounted bayonet, together with the gun it is strapped to, is more like a spear and is ([[Film/LaraCroftTombRaiderTheCradleOfLife almost]]) exclusive to active soldiers in a war story.
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** '''[[BayonetYa Bayonets]]''': The use of an unmounted bayonet marks a character as military -- active, retired, or [[RightWingMilitiaFanatic wannabe]]. Mounted bayonet, together with the gun it is strapped to, is more like a spear and is ([[Film/LaraCroftTombRaiderTheCradleOfLife almost]]) exclusive to active soldiers in a war story. In more modern settings, mounted bayonet is associated with {{Sociopathic Soldier}}s, who would rather torment their victims than give them swift death.
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Added DiffLines:
** '''[[BayonetYa Bayonets]]''': The use of an unmounted bayonet marks a character as military -- active, retired, or [[RightWingMilitiaFanatic wannabe]]. Mounted bayonet, together with the gun it is strapped to, is more like a spear and is ([[Film/LaraCroftTombRaiderTheCradleOfLife almost]]) exclusive to active soldiers in a war story.
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Changed line(s) 106 (click to see context) from:
** '''{{Whip Sword}}s''': For when regular whips just don't [[{{Pun}} cut]] it anymore. Mostly used by particularly commanding {{Action Girl}}s, combining the cool factor of the sword with the dominatrix aspect of the whip.
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** '''{{Whip Sword}}s''': For when regular whips just don't [[{{Pun}} cut]] it anymore. Mostly used by particularly commanding {{Action Girl}}s, combining the cool factor of the sword with the dominatrix aspect of the whip.whip.
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Per TRS.
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* '''[[BladeOnAStick Polearms]]''': Usually, a polearm - such as a poleaxe, spear, halberd, or any other weapon that's a long stick with something sharp and metal on one end - is the province of hapless {{Mooks}}: city guardsman, honor guard, and so on. Anyone who needs something long to cross over a portal to prevent someone from entering will use a polearm. When not in the hands of mooks, they are the weapon of choice for calm collected individuals, while plain spears are also standard issue for the NobleSavage. Occasionally an RPG will have a powerful weapon that happens to be a halberd (probably the best polearm design ever conceived, as [[SwissArmyWeapon it is an axe, a spear, and a staff]] all in one weapon) or spear (the most basic and thus most well known polearm), but you're damned if you're gonna find ''any'' ancestral bec-de-corbins in any medieval-flavored fantasy novel ''anywhere''.
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* '''[[BladeOnAStick Polearms]]''': '''Polearms''': Usually, a polearm - such as a poleaxe, spear, halberd, or any other weapon that's a long stick with something sharp and metal on one end - is the province of hapless {{Mooks}}: city guardsman, honor guard, and so on. Anyone who needs something long to cross over a portal to prevent someone from entering will use a polearm. When not in the hands of mooks, they are the weapon of choice for calm collected individuals, while plain spears are also standard issue for the NobleSavage. Occasionally an RPG will have a powerful weapon that happens to be a halberd (probably the best polearm design ever conceived, as [[SwissArmyWeapon it is an axe, a spear, and a staff]] all in one weapon) or spear (the most basic and thus most well known polearm), but you're damned if you're gonna find ''any'' ancestral bec-de-corbins in any medieval-flavored fantasy novel ''anywhere''.
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Dewicking disambig
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* '''[[WhipItGood Whips]]''': Whips tend to be found in the hands of cowboys, swashbuckling characters, certain [[Franchise/{{Castlevania}} vampire slayers]], [[Franchise/IndianaJones archaeologists]], [[Comicbook/{{Catwoman}} female villains with a thing for tight leather]] and a dominatrix streak, brutal slave drivers, [[TortureTechnician torturers]]... and [[Franchise/AceAttorney prosecutors]].
to:
* '''[[WhipItGood Whips]]''': '''Whips''': Whips tend to be found in the hands of cowboys, swashbuckling characters, certain [[Franchise/{{Castlevania}} vampire slayers]], [[Franchise/IndianaJones archaeologists]], [[Comicbook/{{Catwoman}} female villains with a thing for tight leather]] and a dominatrix streak, brutal slave drivers, [[TortureTechnician torturers]]... and [[Franchise/AceAttorney prosecutors]].
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The Chick disambig
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* '''[[ArcherArchetype Bows]]''': Characters with composed personalities are archers. This again has roots in Tolkien, where the elves typically were depicted as being able to stay composed even in extreme duress. If the archer is a NatureHero, they're more likely to be a ForestRanger. TheChick is just as likely to get a bow since archery has been a popular feminine sport since the Middle Ages. This lets [[GuysSmashGirlsShoot girls fight]] without getting [[WouldntHitAGirl too close to the action.]] The Sniper Rifle and other firearms can be modern day equivalents although [[TheStraightAndArrowPath Bows can still be seen.]]
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* '''[[ArcherArchetype Bows]]''': Characters with composed personalities are archers. This again has roots in Tolkien, where the elves typically were depicted as being able to stay composed even in extreme duress. If the archer is a NatureHero, they're more likely to be a ForestRanger. TheChick The ActionGirl is just as likely to get a bow since archery has been a popular feminine sport since the Middle Ages. This lets [[GuysSmashGirlsShoot girls fight]] without getting [[WouldntHitAGirl too close to the action.]] The Sniper Rifle and other firearms can be modern day equivalents although [[TheStraightAndArrowPath Bows can still be seen.]]
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** '''[[PaperFanOfDoom Paper Fans]]''': Rarely a character's WeaponOfChoice, as they're principally used in slapstick, not combat. When they are, they're frequently used by TheIdiotFromOsaka, or for UnprovokedPervertPayback. However, [[NerfArm they may be used to fight, anyway.]]
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** '''[[PaperFanOfDoom Paper Fans]]''': Rarely a character's WeaponOfChoice, favored weapon, as they're principally used in slapstick, not combat. When they are, they're frequently used by TheIdiotFromOsaka, or for UnprovokedPervertPayback. However, [[NerfArm they may be used to fight, anyway.]]
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* '''[[EpicFlail Flails and other chain weapons]]''': Halfway between a whip and a bludgeon, a big spiked ball on a chain can make for an intimidating weapon. As such, they tend to be wielded by equally intimidating [[TheBrute brutes]] and other scary characters. Flails tend to be wielded by the fearless and/or the particularly skilled, because a mistake can easily see the weapon hurting the wielder. Many more varieties of chain weapons exist in the east; [[FightingWithChucks nunchaku]], kusari-gama, multi-sectional staves and the like. These are wielded by showy martial artists demonstrating their prowess, evil martial artists hoping to confuse the nice guy with a scary foreign weapon, or by HighlyVisibleNinja who should know better.
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* '''[[EpicFlail Flails and other chain weapons]]''': Halfway between a whip and a bludgeon, a big spiked ball on a chain can make for an intimidating weapon. As such, they tend to be wielded by equally intimidating [[TheBrute brutes]] and other scary characters. Flails tend to be wielded by the fearless and/or the particularly skilled, because a mistake can easily see the weapon hurting the wielder. Many more varieties of chain weapons exist in the east; [[FightingWithChucks nunchaku]], nunchaku, kusari-gama, multi-sectional staves and the like. These are wielded by showy martial artists demonstrating their prowess, evil martial artists hoping to confuse the nice guy with a scary foreign weapon, or by HighlyVisibleNinja who should know better.
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** '''[[FightingWithChucks Nunchucks/Nunchaku]]''': A sign of a martial arts expert, especially the BruceLeeClone. For some reason, it is also associated with {{Ninja}}, despite being a weapon that's very ill-suited for the quick, stealthy kills that shinobi would want to pull off.
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** '''[[FightingWithChucks Nunchucks/Nunchaku]]''': '''Nunchucks/Nunchaku''': A sign of a martial arts expert, especially the BruceLeeClone. For some reason, it is also associated with {{Ninja}}, despite being a weapon that's very ill-suited for the quick, stealthy kills that shinobi would want to pull off.
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** '''{{Sai|Guy}}''': Used by ninja or characters who are ninja-like. Often treated like exotic daggers despite being more of a disarming tool. They do look very cool though, which is why characters that wield them tend to be badass.
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** '''{{Sai|Guy}}''': '''Sai''': Used by ninja or characters who are ninja-like. Often treated like exotic daggers despite being more of a disarming tool. They do look very cool though, which is why characters that wield them tend to be badass.
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* '''[[DualTonfas Tonfas]]''': Used by martial artists and law enforcement from less modern times, since the LawmanBaton has more or less replaced it in the latter's case. Still, a showy enough cop can still be found wielding those babies in occasion.
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* '''[[DualTonfas Tonfas]]''': '''Tonfas''': Used by martial artists and law enforcement from less modern times, since the LawmanBaton has more or less replaced it in the latter's case. Still, a showy enough cop can still be found wielding those babies in occasion.
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An Axe To Grind is no longer a trope
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* '''[[AnAxeToGrind Axes]]''': {{Proud Warrior Race Guy}}s tend to get axes. The most prominent [[Main/TropeCodifier Trope Codifiers]] for this are probably [[Franchise/TolkiensLegendarium Tolkien's]] [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], one of the most prominent fictional examples of the proud warrior race, and historical [[UsefulNotes/TheVikingAge Vikings]], notably the [[CadreOfForeignBodyguards Varangian Guard]] who ae reliably depicted as wielding the 'Daneaxe'. (Tolkein took substantial inspiration from Vikings in writing his dwarves, of course.) A favorite of the AxCrazy alongside with knives. Also a favourite of the big guy who doesn't have a club or hammer (see below), in which case it will be a simple, enormous, two-handed, double-bitted affair. TheBerserker (who could be seen as the intersection between the preceding tropes) often favors axes, often combining AnAxeToGrind with DualWielding. It also tends to find its way into the hands of [[NatureHero Rangers or other wilderness 'hunter' or woodsman]] style characters, who use a hatchet both as a weapon and to chop wood. Or [[Webcomic/AxeCop policemen]].
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* '''[[AnAxeToGrind Axes]]''': '''Axes''': {{Proud Warrior Race Guy}}s tend to get axes. The most prominent [[Main/TropeCodifier Trope Codifiers]] for this are probably [[Franchise/TolkiensLegendarium Tolkien's]] [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], one of the most prominent fictional examples of the proud warrior race, and historical [[UsefulNotes/TheVikingAge Vikings]], notably the [[CadreOfForeignBodyguards Varangian Guard]] who ae reliably depicted as wielding the 'Daneaxe'. (Tolkein took substantial inspiration from Vikings in writing his dwarves, of course.) A favorite of the AxCrazy alongside with knives. Also a favourite of the big guy who doesn't have a club or hammer (see below), in which case it will be a simple, enormous, two-handed, double-bitted affair. TheBerserker (who could be seen as the intersection between the preceding tropes) often favors axes, often combining AnAxeToGrind them with DualWielding. It also tends to find its way into the hands of [[NatureHero Rangers or other wilderness 'hunter' or woodsman]] style characters, who use a hatchet both as a weapon and to chop wood. Or [[Webcomic/AxeCop policemen]].
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Trope cut per TRS: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/posts.php?discussion=16670278160.54531300
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* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be mostly the province of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[RareGuns the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
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* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be mostly the province of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[RareGuns [[UniqueProtagonistAsset the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
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* '''[[SimpleStaff Staves/Staffs]]''': Favored weapon of either the TechnicalPacifist or martial artists, who wish to disable enemies non-lethally. Those trying for historical accuracy may have them appear in the hands of RobinHood and his merry men, or other persons legally or practically barred from possession of edged weapons for their close-range fighting needs.
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* '''[[SimpleStaff '''[[MartialArtsStaff Staves/Staffs]]''': Favored weapon of either the TechnicalPacifist or martial artists, who wish to disable enemies non-lethally. Those trying for historical accuracy may have them appear in the hands of RobinHood and his merry men, or other persons legally or practically barred from possession of edged weapons for their close-range fighting needs.
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This is similar to PersonalityPowers, but with weapons. Basically, in various works of fiction, characters tend to possess weapons that are either a direct reflection of their personality or the traits commonly deemed to their character type.
This is why you don't see ogres with rapiers or ninjas with clubs. The martial arts allow this trope to survive as PastimesProvePersonality.
* '''[[AnchorsAway Anchors]]''': A favored weapon for sailors and pirates. These come in two flavors: either swung from a chain, or used as a heavy bludgeoning weapon with a cool shape. SuperStrength is required if they're of realistic weight.
* '''[[AttackAnimal Animals and Monsters]]''': Used by TheBeastmaster and the NatureHero, this includes both real and fictional animals as well as other beings with similar intelligence that can't really be classified as animals (like a BlobMonster or an {{Elemental|Embodiment}}). [[AngryGuardDog Dogs]], [[CatsAreMean cats]], [[FeatheredFiend birds]], [[ReptilesAreAbhorrent snakes]] and [[ManiacMonkeys monkeys]] seem to be the most common animals used as weapons. [[AnimalStereotypes The user's personality might also be reflected on their animal of choice]]. Good guys tend to train their animals through traditional, non-violent methods whereas bad guys usually use some sort of MindControlDevice, spell or just plain ol' abuse. Scary animals and monsters are generally used by villains, who may also sport whips. In some cases, [[TheBrute brutes]] and [[AxCrazy madmen]] would [[GrievousHarmWithABody club the others with animals]].
* '''[[BladeBelowTheShoulder Arm-attached Blades]]''': For assassins and other stealthy killers, or just AxCrazy types, who prefer to have a weapon that's always ready for use, instead of wasting time drawing a handgun, knife or whatever. Most of the time, those are retractable, usually through the power of thought. Robots are also popularly equipped with those, and can justify the retractability much better.
* '''[[AnAxeToGrind Axes]]''': {{Proud Warrior Race Guy}}s tend to get axes. The most prominent [[Main/TropeCodifier Trope Codifiers]] for this are probably [[Franchise/TolkiensLegendarium Tolkien's]] [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], one of the most prominent fictional examples of the proud warrior race, and historical [[UsefulNotes/TheVikingAge Vikings]], notably the [[CadreOfForeignBodyguards Varangian Guard]] who ae reliably depicted as wielding the 'Daneaxe'. (Tolkein took substantial inspiration from Vikings in writing his dwarves, of course.) A favorite of the AxCrazy alongside with knives. Also a favourite of the big guy who doesn't have a club or hammer (see below), in which case it will be a simple, enormous, two-handed, double-bitted affair. TheBerserker (who could be seen as the intersection between the preceding tropes) often favors axes, often combining AnAxeToGrind with DualWielding. It also tends to find its way into the hands of [[NatureHero Rangers or other wilderness 'hunter' or woodsman]] style characters, who use a hatchet both as a weapon and to chop wood. Or [[Webcomic/AxeCop policemen]].
* '''[[BatterUp Baseball Bats]]'''/'''[[PipePain Lead Pipes]]''' -- The preferred weapons of street fighters and urban brawlers from [[{{Gangsterland}} bad neighborhoods]], especially in the US. (Cricket bats may also be used, but this is more likely to be played for laughs or be [[NerfArm ineffectual]], unless of course the setting is the UK or Australia). Is often something of a throwback to the image of a big angry guy with a club coming towards you. Also tends to be the weapon of choice when someone is caught in a surprise emergency (such as an armed burglary or a ZombieApocalypse) and has to grab the closest thing to them they can use as a weapon. Thus it can suggest either brutal, simple, unsophisticated violence or the desperation of someone clutching one in a time of crisis.
* '''[[BlowGun Blowguns]]''': Usually a weapon of choice of tribesmen, though ninjas have also been known to use them.
* '''[[BadWithTheBone Bones]]''': If there's an absolute need to give zombies or skeletons any sort of weapon, then it's only natural that they would use the harder, non-rotten parts of their bodies ([[BottomlessMagazines and they will never run out of them]]). If the bones in question are used as a melee weapon, then it will always be a StockFemurBone, with smaller bones being [[BallisticBone thrown as projectiles]]. Assuming there's no undead involved, bone clubs can still show up as weapons for tribal warriors or cavemen, in which case they tend to come from larger animals like dinosaurs.
* '''[[BattleBoomerang Boomerangs]]''': This iconic Australian weapon seems to be favored by primitive characters, probably because of its aboriginal origins and the fact that Australia is often seen as an overall [[LandDownUnder wild place]]. Characters that use boomerangs also tend to be tricky, taking advantage of the boomerang's trademark ability to return after being thrown in order to hit someone from behind. Some particularly skilled boomerang users can even pull off some [[PrecisionGuidedBoomerang impossibly complex trajectories]]. For this reason, boomerangs also have a slight association with MindOverMatter - a telekinetic user [[JustifiedTrope justifies]] the ability to perform impossible trick shots.
** '''[[RingsOfDeath Chakrams and other ring-shaped weapons]]''': Those tend to be razor-sharp and can be used either as a projectile ([[BoomerangComeback sometimes with boomerang-like returning physics]]) or for melee. Most often used by flashy and/or exotic assassins, who essentially treat those things as portable buzzsaws that can be used at both close and long range.
* '''[[ArcherArchetype Bows]]''': Characters with composed personalities are archers. This again has roots in Tolkien, where the elves typically were depicted as being able to stay composed even in extreme duress. If the archer is a NatureHero, they're more likely to be a ForestRanger. TheChick is just as likely to get a bow since archery has been a popular feminine sport since the Middle Ages. This lets [[GuysSmashGirlsShoot girls fight]] without getting [[WouldntHitAGirl too close to the action.]] The Sniper Rifle and other firearms can be modern day equivalents although [[TheStraightAndArrowPath Bows can still be seen.]]
** '''[[AutomaticCrossbows Crossbows]]''': A favored weapon of a HunterOfMonsters, particularly [[VampireHunter vampire]] and [[DemonSlaying demon hunters]]. As opposed to their more classical counterparts, crossbows are not as strongly associated with elves and composed personalities and they exude a kind of professional air that ordinary bows don't; this might have something to do with the way they're used, [[FantasyGunControl being the closest you'll get to guns in most medieval settings]], and how they're much easier to conceal due to the smaller size. In addition, unlike bows, they tend to free up a hand, for some sort of melee weapon. Regardless, anyone who totes one of these babies around is most likely going to be some variety of badass. Occasionally, due to their ease of use compared to a standard bow, you may also see a noble using one of these. Also the favored ranged weapon of [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], being more metallic and technological than bows. In Chinese and Chinese-influenced fiction, crossbows are instead associated with TheSmartGuy, and specifically with the [[ArchetypalCharacter Archetypal Smart Guy]] Zhuge Liang (who [[UrbanLegend allegedly]] invented AutomaticCrossbows).
* '''[[ChainPain Chains]]''': You know you're dealing with a bad enough dude(tte) when they start swinging around chains at you. Bonus points if the chains are also [[ChainedByFashion part of the character's outfit]], possibly indicating a past as a prisoner or slave. Extra bonus points if they're a BadassBiker too.
* '''{{Chainsaw|Good}}s''': Chainsaws are a very intimidating weapon usually only wielded by those who are ''truly'' AxCrazy. But certain heroes have also made use of them, particularly [[ZombieApocalypseHero those who fight zombies]], demons and other nasties - if you're fighting something frightful, sometimes you need a weapon that roars and bites back.
* '''[[ArsenalAttire Clothes and accessories]]''': For practical fighters who always have their weapons ready (because they're literally wearing them). Often a PoweredArmor.
** '''[[ClothingCombat Actual cloth]]''': Expect the character to be TheFashionista or some sort of exotic dancer that utilizes large pieces of cloth in their performance routine.
** '''[[CombatHaircomb Haircombs]]''': For female assassins and spies, especially those who frequently hang out in social gatherings, hiding the weapon in plain sight as a cute accessory.
** '''[[WeaponizedHeadgear Hats and Helmets]]''': Usually comes in three variations: [[UseYourHead headbutting]] helmets, thrown boomerang hats or a headpiece with a gun equipped. The first one is going to be used by a brutish character (bringing the particular imagery of a bull) while the second one by a stylish killer a la [[Franchise/JamesBond Oddjob]]. The third is in the domain of the GadgeteerGenius.
* '''[[CarryABigStick Clubs]][=/=][[DropTheHammer Hammers]]''': [[BoisterousBruiser Big and brash]] characters, like a giant SmashMook or TheBigGuy, just need the bluntest weapon they can muster: A giant club, mallet, or mace. [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame Dwarves]] tend to like hammers, too; probably because they like forging so much. Size for size, hammers are heavier, slower, and harder hitting than axes. Smaller, more manageable versions are sometimes favored by paladins and priests; ''Dungeons and Dragons'' popularized this to the point where virtually all fantasy clergy are depicted with blunt weapons. Very large, possibly comically oversized warhammers are also favored by a number of CuteBruiser types in roleplaying video games. If a hammer is a mundane utility hammer, then the wielder is almost always AxCrazy. [[SavageSpikedWeapons Spiked maceheads are also very common for more violent characters to emphasize their brutality]].
* '''[[HooksAndCrooks Curved Weapons]]''': Hooks, sickles and other such things tend to belong to [[PsychoForHire psychos for hire]] and similar characters. The same is true for weapons that are notably serrated.
* '''[[ThisIsADrill Drills]]''': Similar to the above, though with some different connotations. A drill's ability to bore through obstacles may reflect [[{{Determinator}} its wielder's determination]], or may be something altogether more Freudian. Also makes an effective terror weapon for the same reasons, or due to invoking memories of the dentist's chair. There are two types of them. Triangular drill is often used by strong brutes while utility drills are used by AxCrazy people. A staple of the SuperRobotGenre, in which it is often the domain of HotBlooded or BoisterousBruiser heroes. The mechs may sometimes have a drill ''as'' an appendage, or convert an appendage between a drill and a hand.
* '''[[ElementalWeapon Elemental Weapons]]''': Combines this with ElementalPowers. A FlamingSword, for example, will normally be wielded by a HotBlooded, [[HeroesPreferSwords heroic]] character.
** '''PoisonedWeapons''': Almost exclusively used by villains and {{Combat Pragmatist}}s as it tends to be considered a form of cheating. Weapons most likely to be poisoned are daggers and arrows, and they might even have [[PoisonIsCorrosive corrosive properties]] too.
** '''[[AcidAttack Acid]]''': Acid users have two characterisations; they can either be a GuileHero or a CombatPragmatist who uses acid to outsmart their opponents by strategically using it to dissolve structures, robots, and armour. If the user is a villain (human or otherwise), then they sadistically use acid [[HollywoodAcid to disfigure people, dissolve their victim alive]] or [[DisposingOfABody they use acid to cover up their crimes]]. Acid is mainly used as a projectile weapon; for humans, acid comes in the [[ThrowDownTheBomblet form of bombs or breakable vials]]. For non-humans, it's a biological attack that either [[Franchise/{{Alien}} comes from their blood]] or [[ZombiePukeAttack comes out as puke]].
* '''[[CombatHandFan Fans]]''': A favorite of graceful warriors such as [[{{Ambadassador}} courtiers]] and [[LadyOfWar onna-bugeisha]] in Japanese settings. Usually bladed or iron banded.
** '''[[PaperFanOfDoom Paper Fans]]''': Rarely a character's WeaponOfChoice, as they're principally used in slapstick, not combat. When they are, they're frequently used by TheIdiotFromOsaka, or for UnprovokedPervertPayback. However, [[NerfArm they may be used to fight, anyway.]]
* '''[[BareFistedMonk Fists]]''': Any person, [[HeroesFightBarehanded sometimes the hero]], who carries no weapon when everybody around him is carrying one is either cocky enough to ''believe'' that he doesn't need a weapon, or highly-skilled enough to ''know'' that he doesn't need a weapon. The two are generally completely opposite in characterization, with the cocky version generally being a braggart and a bit of an ass, and the other being contemplative and spiritual to the point of being a MartialPacifist or a WarriorTherapist. Or they're just a TechnicalPacifist, this might even include [[{{Superhero}} superheroes]] with a [[ThouShallNotKill no-kill policy]]. Bonus points if they have SuperStrength. Be warned, however, that the latter level of expertise may also contain the ArrogantKungFuGuy, who really ''is'' as good as he brags about. However, some others...
** '''[[PowerFist Gauntlets and Such]]''' ...compromise with practicality. Though some have [[RedRightHand little choice in the matter]]. Alternatively, a weapon for massive [[TheBigGuy bruisers]], in which case they're another kind of '''[[DropTheHammer Hammer]]''' and signify a direct, brute-force attitude.
** '''[[WolverineClaws Claws]]''': Those refer to gloves equipped with sharp, metal claws. This one appears to be a favorite of {{Fragile Speedster}}s of all kinds as well as more [[CombatPragmatist pragmatic]] martial artists.
** '''[[ArmedLegs Greaves]]''': These are fighters from a martial tradition (almost exclusively Asian) who are nonetheless using "greaves," the metal shin guards worn by European knights. Such fighters use their feet as their primary attack options: what would be the point of wearing metal boots if you intended to punch someone? Technically, gauntlets and greaves are armor, not weapons... But [[CombatPragmatist since when has that stopped anyone]]?
** '''{{Natural Weapon}}s''': Some characters have something better than fists. Claws, tails, talons, and so forth. These weapons imply a character is feral and savage, almost more animal than man... after all, if they weren't, they'd pick up a weapon and kill each other like civilized people.
* '''[[EpicFlail Flails and other chain weapons]]''': Halfway between a whip and a bludgeon, a big spiked ball on a chain can make for an intimidating weapon. As such, they tend to be wielded by equally intimidating [[TheBrute brutes]] and other scary characters. Flails tend to be wielded by the fearless and/or the particularly skilled, because a mistake can easily see the weapon hurting the wielder. Many more varieties of chain weapons exist in the east; [[FightingWithChucks nunchaku]], kusari-gama, multi-sectional staves and the like. These are wielded by showy martial artists demonstrating their prowess, evil martial artists hoping to confuse the nice guy with a scary foreign weapon, or by HighlyVisibleNinja who should know better.
** '''[[KillerYoYo Yo-yos]]''': The quirkier and often more accurate/precise cousin to the Flail, created by adding a [[SpectacularSpinning spin]] to the weapon, bonus points if the yo-yo deploys a [[ChainsawGood saw blade or other cutting device]] mid-trajectory. Yo-yos frequently have the benefit in fiction of always returning to the user, regardless of the trajectory it took. Yo-yos are often wielded as a more unique alternative to the traditional Flail, or as an ImprovisedWeapon in the hands of a child (i.e. Ness from Earthbound).
** '''[[FightingWithChucks Nunchucks/Nunchaku]]''': A sign of a martial arts expert, especially the BruceLeeClone. For some reason, it is also associated with {{Ninja}}, despite being a weapon that's very ill-suited for the quick, stealthy kills that shinobi would want to pull off.
* '''[[ImpossiblyCoolWeapon Fundamentally Absurd Weapons]]''': Often a game will have a weapon that makes the aforementioned anchors look simple and logical. These objects almost always appeal to the RuleOfCool, and are ridiculously overpowered. [[InfinityPlusOneSword Napalm Chainsaw-Nunchuck-Missile-shooting Double Gunswords]], anyone?
* '''Gadgets:''' Often the domain of the GadgeteerGenius, TheSmartGuy, and the ScienceHero. Characters who rely on gizmos and technology tend to be smart and are usually young, rarely exceeding middle aged. Bonus points if these gadgets are HomemadeInventions. May manifest as a ShoePhone if in the hands of spies.
* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be mostly the province of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[RareGuns the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
** '''{{Handguns}}''': The trusty handgun is a favorite of [[TheGunslinger Gunslingers]] of all stripes. If the setting is one in which everyone uses firearms, TheHero and the BigBad are the most likely to use these. Any badass who uses a pistol will double up for some kickass GunsAkimbo. Unless it's a Western, or the character needs their other hand for something.
*** '''[[HandCannon Hand Cannons]]''': High recoil big frame handguns chambered for magnum pistol or rifle cartridges, Hand Cannons are much more powerful than ordinary pistols and the weapon of choice for ''Film/DirtyHarry'' type characters.
*** '''[[RevolversAreJustBetter Revolvers]]''': The favored weapon of {{Cowboy}}s, typically found in a [[TheWildWest Wild West]] setting.
** '''[[ShotgunsAreJustBetter Shotguns]]''': [[ShortRangeShotgun They're close enough to punch]], but you'd rather blow a hole right through them. The AntiHero, TheDragon, and the ZombieApocalypseHero will invariably carry around a 12-gauge (often of the [[SawedOffShotgun sawed-off variety]]).
** '''[[SniperRifle Rifles]]''': Death from a distance. A favorite of the ColdSniper and other people looking to reach out and score a [[BoomHeadshot head shot]]. More badass [[ElitesAreMoreGlamorous elite types]] such as Special Forces or [[ItsRainingMen Paratroopers]] might have a shortened [[AceCustom carbine]] with a collapsible or folding stock and [[GunAccessories a few choice optics and accessories]].
** '''[[MoreDakka Automatics]]''': If it's not a war movie, then any sort of automatic weapon will be carried by the {{Mooks}}, due to their ubiquitousness and lack of [[RuleOfCool style]]. (Semi-automatics will be the standard if technology is up to it, and will usually have [[BottomlessMagazines impossibly large magazines]].) The exceptions are Uzis and other sub-machine guns, which may be given to the badass (especially if they're [[GunsAkimbo dual-wielded]]), and the...
** '''[[GatlingGood Gatling Gun]]''': A huge minigun is the favorite weapon of TheBigGuy, as well as some particularly intimidating [[TheDragon Dragons]].
** '''[[{{BFG}} Explosives and other Big Weapons]]''': Any sort of oversized gun, including rocket and {{Grenade Launcher}}s, may find similar use in the hands of TheBigGuy.
** '''[[FireBreathingWeapon Flamethrowers]]''': Are a favorite of the PyroManiac.
** '''RayGun''': Also known as "blasters", those guns that fire rays, light, waves and other shiny stuff are a common element of ScienceFiction works (especially those set in outer space, where the bright plasma contrasts well with the mostly black background), effectively replacing traditional, gunpowder-based guns. In contemporary settings where they are more uncommon, one can find them in the hands of dangerous, superintelligent characters such as [[MadScientist mad scientists]] or [[AlienInvasion hostile alien invaders]].
** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style.
* '''Knives''': Generally, knife-wielders come in three flavors. There's the PsychoKnifeNut, an AxCrazy character who loves to stab people to death. They may love knives for their ability to either kill quickly and viciously, or slowly and painfully depending on how they're used; alternatively, it could simply be the fact that most people have several sharp knives in their kitchen, making them a very easily accessible murder weapon once their SanitySlippage reaches that point. Knives are also [[DeviousDaggers the favorite weapon of sneaky and deceitful characters]] such as thieves, assassins, spies, and {{ninja}}. Their small size makes them easy to conceal, and thus an ideal weapon for stabbing someone InTheBack. It also makes them lightweight, letting their wielder move around agilely and unencumbered both in and out of combat. Lastly, there's the rugged survivalist, likely the nicest and most honorable of the bunch, who loves their knife not just as a weapon, but as a versatile tool: they'll use their blade to cut away plants, carve wood, skin animals, prepare meals, and much more. That said, some overlap probably exists between all three categories. A recurring pattern is for knife-wielders to be {{Combat Pragmatist}}s who use sneaky and underhanded moves to compensate for their weapon's short reach; in gaming, the character will likely be a FragileSpeedster, StealthExpert, and/or CriticalHitClass.
** '''[[KukrisAreKool Kukris]]''': Despite being fundamentally similar to machetes in many ways, they're more often seen in the hands of more straightforwardly heroic characters like the AdventurerArchaeologist or modern incarnations of the ForestRanger. Also [[UsefulNotes/NepaliWithNastyKnives Gurkhas]], obviously, and characters in [[UsefulNotes/AussiesWithArtillery the Australian Army]], who issue them as standard for jungle warfare.
** '''[[MacheteMayhem Machetes]]''': The machete and related blades are used by characters who live wild, or have wild, untamed natures, calling back to its use in the wilderness. Usually used by an AntiHero, or an AxCrazy psycho killer. However, they can be used by anyone in a jungle setting, when used as a tool.
** '''{{Sai|Guy}}''': Used by ninja or characters who are ninja-like. Often treated like exotic daggers despite being more of a disarming tool. They do look very cool though, which is why characters that wield them tend to be badass.
** '''[[SinisterSwitchblade Switchblades]]''': Folding blades, especially ones that open with a flick of a button, are wielded by petty crooks. The short and relatively fragile nature of the knives also make it likely that the wielder is going after someone unarmed or held up by said wielder's "associates."
** '''[[KnifeThrowingAct Throwing Knives]]''': If a character specializes in throwing knives, he's probably either very flashy (a la the circus knife thrower) or extremely subtle, with weapons hidden all over his body.
* '''{{Magic Wand}}s''': Not so much a weapon for "beating them over the head" but rather "[[SquishyWizard blow them up with a bigger fireball]]." More of a favorite with wizards, witches and such than the staff, but they often [[MagicStaff combine them]] for the best of both worlds. Not necessarily always a wand, this covers any object used for spellcasting.
** '''{{Spell Book}}s''': Wizards who carry spell books tend to [[TheSmartGuy look intellectual and scholarly]]. They can range from dorky apprentices who are still getting used to basic spells to older, wise wizards who probably write their own books (usually, the larger and thicker the book is, the better). Also, a common BigBad tool. ThrowTheBookAtThem is a rare tactic, but can still show up if the RuleOfFunny is in play.
* '''[[PowerfulPick Pickaxes]]''': Used exclusively by miners and other people that work in a digging business (like farmers). Despite the presence of the word "axe", they tend to be wielded more like hammers thanks to their shape and weight.
* '''[[TorchesAndPitchforks Pitchforks]]''': The official weapon of the unruly mob, this is normally used by a farmer or small-town folk defending his home. Shotguns and hunting rifles can also fill this niche in a modern setting. You may also see some [[BigRedDevil traditionalist]] [[OurDemonsAreDifferent infernals]] wielding pitchforks to prod the damned with.
* '''[[BladeOnAStick Polearms]]''': Usually, a polearm - such as a poleaxe, spear, halberd, or any other weapon that's a long stick with something sharp and metal on one end - is the province of hapless {{Mooks}}: city guardsman, honor guard, and so on. Anyone who needs something long to cross over a portal to prevent someone from entering will use a polearm. When not in the hands of mooks, they are the weapon of choice for calm collected individuals, while plain spears are also standard issue for the NobleSavage. Occasionally an RPG will have a powerful weapon that happens to be a halberd (probably the best polearm design ever conceived, as [[SwissArmyWeapon it is an axe, a spear, and a staff]] all in one weapon) or spear (the most basic and thus most well known polearm), but you're damned if you're gonna find ''any'' ancestral bec-de-corbins in any medieval-flavored fantasy novel ''anywhere''.
** '''[[ProngsOfPoseidon Trident]]''': The weapon of sea gods like Poseidon, Proteus and Nereus and merpeople is now the weapon of anyone associated with the sea or water. Not entirely contrived, as the trident was originally a fishing spear, hence its pairing with a fishing net in the hands of a ''retiarius'' (a type of Roman gladiator).
** '''[[JoustingLance Knight Lances]]''': Often given to characters with such a theme. Since most people who see lances undoubtedly think of its use in jousting as a knightly sport weapon, the lance might be used to indicate a chivalric personality or aristocratic position. Since the lance was a cavalry weapon, and cavalry tended historically to be something of an elite, trained fighting class in every army, you will rarely see it in the hands of the common man.
** '''[[NaginatasAreFeminine Naginatas]]''' are used primarily by elegant [[LadyOfWar Ladies of War]], given their historical use by the wives of samurai.
* '''[[LawmanBaton Police Batons]]''': For guards and policemen.
* '''[[KnowsTheRopes Ropes]]''': Popular with cowboys, who use lasso not only to restrain cattle, but outlaws and other troublemakers. Sailors and pirates may also occasionally employ lots of rope, often to climb the rigging or to swing onto an enemy ship.
* '''[[ShearMenace Scissors]]''': If a pair of scissors is being used as a weapon, then expect it to be of the big, gardening variety. Anything smaller won't be taken seriously unless the user is a tailor or hairdresser, in which case they will demonstrate the scissors equivalent of ImplausibleFencingPowers. They can also be a pretty frightening ImprovisedWeapon in a life or death situation, particularly when used to stab. Also [[RockPaperScissors super-effective]] against PaperPeople, but not so much against {{Rock Monster}}s.
* '''[[SinisterScythe Scythes]]''': Especially for villains and goths despite being very [[AwesomeButImpractical impractical to actually fight with]]. Associated with [[TheGrimReaper death]], or [[{{Necromancer}} those who command it]]. It should be noted that a [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_scythe scythes can be made into an effective weapon]] by reattaching the blade so it extends upright from the pole. Alternatively the Chinese had a [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dagger-axe workable version]] even before that. These more effective designs are rarely seen in fiction. Oddly enough, rarely if ever used by farmers, who prefer Slings and Pitchforks.
* '''[[LuckilyMyShieldWillProtectMe Shields]]''': Surprisingly rare for major fictional characters. Usually meant to be used alongside another one-handed weapon (such as the good ol' [[KnightlySwordAndShield sword and board]]), but many characters will use ''only'' a shield, usually as a TechnicalPacifist or [[PersonalityPowers matching their personality]] as either defensive and fragile, or protective of others. Or simply as an [[ImprobableWeaponUser Improbable Weapon]]. Shields are almost always near-indestructible, magical or made of {{Unobtainium}}. Some characters (like ComicBook/CaptainAmerica) can actually [[ThrowingYourShieldAlwaysWorks throw them]].
* '''[[DruidicSickle Sickles]]''': Pagan clergy and the occasional farmer.
* '''[[SufferTheSlings Slings]]''': They're usually associated with peasants, children, {{halfling}}s and primitive tribesman. Rarely an effective weapon in fiction, they are more likely to distract than cause real damage, [[Literature/TheBible David and Goliath]] aside. Historically, however, slings were very powerful weapons, more devastating and long-ranged than the bow, which was not well developed in some areas of the Ancient World.
* '''[[BratsWithSlingshots Slingshots]]''': Seen as a kid's toy (and for good reason, since slingshots are generally weak and difficult to aim, making them impractical for battle), these are generally in the hands of a mischievous child who wants to annoy rather than harm. If used by adults, it's because they're either improvising or something of an oddball.
* '''[[SimpleStaff Staves/Staffs]]''': Favored weapon of either the TechnicalPacifist or martial artists, who wish to disable enemies non-lethally. Those trying for historical accuracy may have them appear in the hands of RobinHood and his merry men, or other persons legally or practically barred from possession of edged weapons for their close-range fighting needs.
** '''[[BoomStick GunStaffs]]''', for when you need the ability to beat things over the head and shoot people in a single package. [[MagicStaff Wizard's staves]] count here but it can also be a technological gizmo that shoots electricity, for defensive characters who DO want to use deadly force.
** '''[[MagicStaff Magic Staffs]]''': Magic variants favoured by wizards and other wise characters that rely on talents other than brute force to deal with conflict still sensibly bring at least a staff for protection. This covers the WhiteMagicianGirl and the BlackMagicianGirl, both of whom typically use them. In the former's case, they'll typically be called Staves, while in the latter's case, they'll be Rods/Wands.
** '''[[TelescopingStaff Telescoping Staff]]''', the version exclusive to melee combat. This kind of staff allows for easy storage due to its ability to be made compact, better for catching opponents off guard with a weapon of that size.
** '''[[BattleBaton Batons]]''': Utilized by cheerleaders as a sort of mini-staff. Can sometimes act as a boomerang for some reason.
* '''[[ImprobableWeaponUser Strange Weapons]]''': If a character is just [[ImprovisedWeapon improvising]] and ordinarily goes unarmed, he's probably the UnluckyEverydude who just got caught in a fight (like most of the characters Jackie Chan plays). If someone regularly goes around with a weapon like this, they're not totally connected to reality -- either TheDitz or the {{Cloudcuckoolander}}, or they're so badass they can kill people without needing "regular" weapons. Or they have a need to go armed in portions of society that do not take kindly to the presence of actual weapons, and have adapted accordingly.
** '''[[GrievousHarmWithABody Dead Bodies]]''': As long as they can be lifted, dead bodies can be used as [[GrievousHarmWithABody makeshift clubs]], or a [[{{Necromancer}} personal]] [[TheUndead army]].
** '''[[FryingPanOfDoom Frying Pans]]''': Favored by traditional wives and chefs, this one is a staple of {{Slapstick}}. Also a common [[JokeItem Joke Weapon]] in Main/VideoGames, and thus gets to be wielded by {{Cloudcuckoolander}}s.
** '''[[RollingPinOfDoom Rolling Pin]]''': Essentially the same as the frying pan above. The ApronMatron will use this to hit her HenpeckedHusband on the head to keep him in line.
** '''[[EdibleBludgeon Food]]''': Completing the holy trifecta of kitchen-based weaponry, we have food itself. Common wielders are usually the same as the ones that use frying pans and the rolling pins mentioned above plus [[BigEater hungry]] {{Fat Bastard}}s who may eat their own weapon after bludgeoning you to death with it. A [[{{Foodfight}} food fight]] will definitely include this. Food that is commonly used as weapons include [[BaguetteBeatdown baguettes]] (in which case, expect the user to be a frenchman), [[PieInTheFace pies]] (clowns), [[ShamuFu fish]], frozen meat and fruit.
** '''[[GrievousBottleyHarm Bottles]]''': The official weapon of drunk {{Bar Brawl}}ers. Usually, the bottle will be broken in half so that the wielder may use the upper half as a stabbing weapon, but the entire bottle being used as a kind of glass club also works.
** '''[[ChairmanOfTheBrawl Chairs]]''': The ''other'' official weapon of drunk {{Bar Brawl}}ers. This one is also commonly used by thugs and {{Heel}} wrestlers, in particular the folding, metal kind.
** '''[[CrowbarCombatant Crowbars]]''': The preferred weapon of urban survivalists, especially zombie hunters and [[VideoGame/HalfLife physicists]], and others who appreciate its dual use as both an improvised weapon and useful prying tool.
** '''[[ShovelStrike Shovels]]''': May be used by farmers, construction workers, [[VideoGame/ShovelKnight knights]] and the creepy gravedigger at the local cemetery. Also useful for psychopathic murderers as shovels can be used for beating people into unconsciousness before burying their bodies somewhere ([[BuriedAlive alive]] or not).
** '''[[WrenchWhack Wrenches]]''': For inventors, mechanics, scientists and other people that like messing with machinery.
** '''[[ParasolOfPain Parasols]]''': Be careful of cute ladies, older gentlemen or grannies carrying those. It might have a concealed gun or blade, and this is assuming they don't just outright whack you over the head with it. [[ParasolParachute Useful for gliding as well]].
** '''[[ShoeSlap Shoes]]''': The weapon of choice for many a woman or mother from or in Mexico. Chanclas ("sandal" or "flip-flop" in Spanish) are the most popular kind of shoe used for this purpose. Can be used to point as someone in a threatening, protective, or aggressive manner, to shove in someone's face, or to throw at them. It is customary for the one at the receiving end of the shoe throwing to fetch the shoe for the one who threw the shoe. In some cultures, the use of a shoe as a weapon is meant to be extremely insulting to the person it is used against because shoes are considered to be dirty.
** '''[[BroomstickQuarterstaff Mops and broomsticks]]''': Used by specifically grumpy janitors and housewives. Witches may also use enchanted ones that act like glorified magic wands. (Only brooms though. Any witch with a mop is likely going to be made fun of).
** '''Microphones''': Usually reflects users that have larger than life personalities and are fixated on being the center of attention, akin to a rockstar or entertainer. Non-magic users often use these as clubbing weapons or piercing weapons if they are attached to the microphone stand. These users can be [[WouldYouLikeToHearHowTheyDied sadistic]] as [[BreakThemByTalking they want to torment others]], or they want to send a message to other would-be victims.
* '''[[CoolSword Swords]]''': Will probably be considered the "default" weapon in any setting where guns aren't commonplace (and in a few where they are). [[HeroesPreferSwords The heroic lead]] usually winds up wielding the iconic knightly sword in the west. The katana often takes its place in the east. Meanwhile, the big two-handed blades, if they're not in the hands of the hero, usually go to TheBigGuy.
** '''[[RoyalRapier Rapier]]''': Rapiers and short-swords typically go to swashbucklers and foppish men. Also quite common for women, [[RealityIsUnrealistic being commonly perceived as light]], easily manoeuvrable blades.
** '''[[KatanasAreJustBetter Katanas]]''': If both katanas and western swords are present, the katana will either be in the hands of a badass (if KatanasAreJustBetter) or an {{Otaku}} who isn't as badass as they think they are (if not).
** '''[[SinisterScimitar Scimitars, Sabers and other curved swords]]''': In Arabian or Pirate settings, this kind of sword is considered the "default" weapon and may be used by good and bad guys alike. Outside of those settings, however, it's almost always used by scary, intimidating characters or armies, following the logic of curved weapons detailed above.
** '''[[{{BFS}} Big Freaking Sword]]''': Typically found in the hands of large intimidating characters, like giants or [[SmashMook brutish types]]. A common subversion is to have them appear in the hands of someone who doesn't look like they could even pick it up as a hint that this person is much stronger than they look. In a JRPG, however, a sword with its own zip code is more likely to belong to TheHero without necessarily having any explanation.
** '''DualWielding''': Almost always appears in the hands of roguish characters.
** '''SwordCane''': Used by the CulturedBadass and any older swordsman who wishes to lull enemies into a false sense of superiority.
** '''{{Sheath|Strike}}es''': {{Technical Pacifist}}s that don't look forward to shedding blood may use their sword's sheathes as their main form of combat, drawing their actual blades when they find themselves with no choice. Some may also {{Dual Wield|ing}} their sword and sheath, using the latter as a defensive or support tool.
** '''LaserBlade''': A sword used in a sci-fi setting. Has far more cutting power than traditional swords, sometimes with the ability to deflect lasers and bullets.
* '''[[StaticStunGun Tasers]]''': Favored weapons of cops and security guards, though can frequently seen being carried by civilians. They are especially efficient for those who have little in the way of combat skill, allowing the [[ShockAndAwe electric shock]] to disable a potential enemy. TruthInTelevision at play as tasers are a very common self-defense weapon in real life that people can carry in bags. Police may often carry the [[LawmanBaton baton]] version which gives a longer reach as well as the potential to bludgeon with melee force if the electric function fails.
* '''[[DualTonfas Tonfas]]''': Used by martial artists and law enforcement from less modern times, since the LawmanBaton has more or less replaced it in the latter's case. Still, a showy enough cop can still be found wielding those babies in occasion.
* '''[[ThrowDownTheBomblet Thrown Explosives and Incendiaries]]''': Grenades and the like are usually associated with those with poor impulse control (in plain English, people ''who really like explosions''). They may or may not also be {{Mad Bomber}}s. They may also be associated with controlled and logical people, as a juxtaposition. This weapon most often occurs in more technologically advanced settings like UrbanFantasy or ScienceFiction.
* '''[[WhipItGood Whips]]''': Whips tend to be found in the hands of cowboys, swashbuckling characters, certain [[Franchise/{{Castlevania}} vampire slayers]], [[Franchise/IndianaJones archaeologists]], [[Comicbook/{{Catwoman}} female villains with a thing for tight leather]] and a dominatrix streak, brutal slave drivers, [[TortureTechnician torturers]]... and [[Franchise/AceAttorney prosecutors]].
** '''{{Whip Sword}}s''': For when regular whips just don't [[{{Pun}} cut]] it anymore. Mostly used by particularly commanding {{Action Girl}}s, combining the cool factor of the sword with the dominatrix aspect of the whip.
This is why you don't see ogres with rapiers or ninjas with clubs. The martial arts allow this trope to survive as PastimesProvePersonality.
* '''[[AnchorsAway Anchors]]''': A favored weapon for sailors and pirates. These come in two flavors: either swung from a chain, or used as a heavy bludgeoning weapon with a cool shape. SuperStrength is required if they're of realistic weight.
* '''[[AttackAnimal Animals and Monsters]]''': Used by TheBeastmaster and the NatureHero, this includes both real and fictional animals as well as other beings with similar intelligence that can't really be classified as animals (like a BlobMonster or an {{Elemental|Embodiment}}). [[AngryGuardDog Dogs]], [[CatsAreMean cats]], [[FeatheredFiend birds]], [[ReptilesAreAbhorrent snakes]] and [[ManiacMonkeys monkeys]] seem to be the most common animals used as weapons. [[AnimalStereotypes The user's personality might also be reflected on their animal of choice]]. Good guys tend to train their animals through traditional, non-violent methods whereas bad guys usually use some sort of MindControlDevice, spell or just plain ol' abuse. Scary animals and monsters are generally used by villains, who may also sport whips. In some cases, [[TheBrute brutes]] and [[AxCrazy madmen]] would [[GrievousHarmWithABody club the others with animals]].
* '''[[BladeBelowTheShoulder Arm-attached Blades]]''': For assassins and other stealthy killers, or just AxCrazy types, who prefer to have a weapon that's always ready for use, instead of wasting time drawing a handgun, knife or whatever. Most of the time, those are retractable, usually through the power of thought. Robots are also popularly equipped with those, and can justify the retractability much better.
* '''[[AnAxeToGrind Axes]]''': {{Proud Warrior Race Guy}}s tend to get axes. The most prominent [[Main/TropeCodifier Trope Codifiers]] for this are probably [[Franchise/TolkiensLegendarium Tolkien's]] [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], one of the most prominent fictional examples of the proud warrior race, and historical [[UsefulNotes/TheVikingAge Vikings]], notably the [[CadreOfForeignBodyguards Varangian Guard]] who ae reliably depicted as wielding the 'Daneaxe'. (Tolkein took substantial inspiration from Vikings in writing his dwarves, of course.) A favorite of the AxCrazy alongside with knives. Also a favourite of the big guy who doesn't have a club or hammer (see below), in which case it will be a simple, enormous, two-handed, double-bitted affair. TheBerserker (who could be seen as the intersection between the preceding tropes) often favors axes, often combining AnAxeToGrind with DualWielding. It also tends to find its way into the hands of [[NatureHero Rangers or other wilderness 'hunter' or woodsman]] style characters, who use a hatchet both as a weapon and to chop wood. Or [[Webcomic/AxeCop policemen]].
* '''[[BatterUp Baseball Bats]]'''/'''[[PipePain Lead Pipes]]''' -- The preferred weapons of street fighters and urban brawlers from [[{{Gangsterland}} bad neighborhoods]], especially in the US. (Cricket bats may also be used, but this is more likely to be played for laughs or be [[NerfArm ineffectual]], unless of course the setting is the UK or Australia). Is often something of a throwback to the image of a big angry guy with a club coming towards you. Also tends to be the weapon of choice when someone is caught in a surprise emergency (such as an armed burglary or a ZombieApocalypse) and has to grab the closest thing to them they can use as a weapon. Thus it can suggest either brutal, simple, unsophisticated violence or the desperation of someone clutching one in a time of crisis.
* '''[[BlowGun Blowguns]]''': Usually a weapon of choice of tribesmen, though ninjas have also been known to use them.
* '''[[BadWithTheBone Bones]]''': If there's an absolute need to give zombies or skeletons any sort of weapon, then it's only natural that they would use the harder, non-rotten parts of their bodies ([[BottomlessMagazines and they will never run out of them]]). If the bones in question are used as a melee weapon, then it will always be a StockFemurBone, with smaller bones being [[BallisticBone thrown as projectiles]]. Assuming there's no undead involved, bone clubs can still show up as weapons for tribal warriors or cavemen, in which case they tend to come from larger animals like dinosaurs.
* '''[[BattleBoomerang Boomerangs]]''': This iconic Australian weapon seems to be favored by primitive characters, probably because of its aboriginal origins and the fact that Australia is often seen as an overall [[LandDownUnder wild place]]. Characters that use boomerangs also tend to be tricky, taking advantage of the boomerang's trademark ability to return after being thrown in order to hit someone from behind. Some particularly skilled boomerang users can even pull off some [[PrecisionGuidedBoomerang impossibly complex trajectories]]. For this reason, boomerangs also have a slight association with MindOverMatter - a telekinetic user [[JustifiedTrope justifies]] the ability to perform impossible trick shots.
** '''[[RingsOfDeath Chakrams and other ring-shaped weapons]]''': Those tend to be razor-sharp and can be used either as a projectile ([[BoomerangComeback sometimes with boomerang-like returning physics]]) or for melee. Most often used by flashy and/or exotic assassins, who essentially treat those things as portable buzzsaws that can be used at both close and long range.
* '''[[ArcherArchetype Bows]]''': Characters with composed personalities are archers. This again has roots in Tolkien, where the elves typically were depicted as being able to stay composed even in extreme duress. If the archer is a NatureHero, they're more likely to be a ForestRanger. TheChick is just as likely to get a bow since archery has been a popular feminine sport since the Middle Ages. This lets [[GuysSmashGirlsShoot girls fight]] without getting [[WouldntHitAGirl too close to the action.]] The Sniper Rifle and other firearms can be modern day equivalents although [[TheStraightAndArrowPath Bows can still be seen.]]
** '''[[AutomaticCrossbows Crossbows]]''': A favored weapon of a HunterOfMonsters, particularly [[VampireHunter vampire]] and [[DemonSlaying demon hunters]]. As opposed to their more classical counterparts, crossbows are not as strongly associated with elves and composed personalities and they exude a kind of professional air that ordinary bows don't; this might have something to do with the way they're used, [[FantasyGunControl being the closest you'll get to guns in most medieval settings]], and how they're much easier to conceal due to the smaller size. In addition, unlike bows, they tend to free up a hand, for some sort of melee weapon. Regardless, anyone who totes one of these babies around is most likely going to be some variety of badass. Occasionally, due to their ease of use compared to a standard bow, you may also see a noble using one of these. Also the favored ranged weapon of [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame dwarves]], being more metallic and technological than bows. In Chinese and Chinese-influenced fiction, crossbows are instead associated with TheSmartGuy, and specifically with the [[ArchetypalCharacter Archetypal Smart Guy]] Zhuge Liang (who [[UrbanLegend allegedly]] invented AutomaticCrossbows).
* '''[[ChainPain Chains]]''': You know you're dealing with a bad enough dude(tte) when they start swinging around chains at you. Bonus points if the chains are also [[ChainedByFashion part of the character's outfit]], possibly indicating a past as a prisoner or slave. Extra bonus points if they're a BadassBiker too.
* '''{{Chainsaw|Good}}s''': Chainsaws are a very intimidating weapon usually only wielded by those who are ''truly'' AxCrazy. But certain heroes have also made use of them, particularly [[ZombieApocalypseHero those who fight zombies]], demons and other nasties - if you're fighting something frightful, sometimes you need a weapon that roars and bites back.
* '''[[ArsenalAttire Clothes and accessories]]''': For practical fighters who always have their weapons ready (because they're literally wearing them). Often a PoweredArmor.
** '''[[ClothingCombat Actual cloth]]''': Expect the character to be TheFashionista or some sort of exotic dancer that utilizes large pieces of cloth in their performance routine.
** '''[[CombatHaircomb Haircombs]]''': For female assassins and spies, especially those who frequently hang out in social gatherings, hiding the weapon in plain sight as a cute accessory.
** '''[[WeaponizedHeadgear Hats and Helmets]]''': Usually comes in three variations: [[UseYourHead headbutting]] helmets, thrown boomerang hats or a headpiece with a gun equipped. The first one is going to be used by a brutish character (bringing the particular imagery of a bull) while the second one by a stylish killer a la [[Franchise/JamesBond Oddjob]]. The third is in the domain of the GadgeteerGenius.
* '''[[CarryABigStick Clubs]][=/=][[DropTheHammer Hammers]]''': [[BoisterousBruiser Big and brash]] characters, like a giant SmashMook or TheBigGuy, just need the bluntest weapon they can muster: A giant club, mallet, or mace. [[OurDwarvesAreAllTheSame Dwarves]] tend to like hammers, too; probably because they like forging so much. Size for size, hammers are heavier, slower, and harder hitting than axes. Smaller, more manageable versions are sometimes favored by paladins and priests; ''Dungeons and Dragons'' popularized this to the point where virtually all fantasy clergy are depicted with blunt weapons. Very large, possibly comically oversized warhammers are also favored by a number of CuteBruiser types in roleplaying video games. If a hammer is a mundane utility hammer, then the wielder is almost always AxCrazy. [[SavageSpikedWeapons Spiked maceheads are also very common for more violent characters to emphasize their brutality]].
* '''[[HooksAndCrooks Curved Weapons]]''': Hooks, sickles and other such things tend to belong to [[PsychoForHire psychos for hire]] and similar characters. The same is true for weapons that are notably serrated.
* '''[[ThisIsADrill Drills]]''': Similar to the above, though with some different connotations. A drill's ability to bore through obstacles may reflect [[{{Determinator}} its wielder's determination]], or may be something altogether more Freudian. Also makes an effective terror weapon for the same reasons, or due to invoking memories of the dentist's chair. There are two types of them. Triangular drill is often used by strong brutes while utility drills are used by AxCrazy people. A staple of the SuperRobotGenre, in which it is often the domain of HotBlooded or BoisterousBruiser heroes. The mechs may sometimes have a drill ''as'' an appendage, or convert an appendage between a drill and a hand.
* '''[[ElementalWeapon Elemental Weapons]]''': Combines this with ElementalPowers. A FlamingSword, for example, will normally be wielded by a HotBlooded, [[HeroesPreferSwords heroic]] character.
** '''PoisonedWeapons''': Almost exclusively used by villains and {{Combat Pragmatist}}s as it tends to be considered a form of cheating. Weapons most likely to be poisoned are daggers and arrows, and they might even have [[PoisonIsCorrosive corrosive properties]] too.
** '''[[AcidAttack Acid]]''': Acid users have two characterisations; they can either be a GuileHero or a CombatPragmatist who uses acid to outsmart their opponents by strategically using it to dissolve structures, robots, and armour. If the user is a villain (human or otherwise), then they sadistically use acid [[HollywoodAcid to disfigure people, dissolve their victim alive]] or [[DisposingOfABody they use acid to cover up their crimes]]. Acid is mainly used as a projectile weapon; for humans, acid comes in the [[ThrowDownTheBomblet form of bombs or breakable vials]]. For non-humans, it's a biological attack that either [[Franchise/{{Alien}} comes from their blood]] or [[ZombiePukeAttack comes out as puke]].
* '''[[CombatHandFan Fans]]''': A favorite of graceful warriors such as [[{{Ambadassador}} courtiers]] and [[LadyOfWar onna-bugeisha]] in Japanese settings. Usually bladed or iron banded.
** '''[[PaperFanOfDoom Paper Fans]]''': Rarely a character's WeaponOfChoice, as they're principally used in slapstick, not combat. When they are, they're frequently used by TheIdiotFromOsaka, or for UnprovokedPervertPayback. However, [[NerfArm they may be used to fight, anyway.]]
* '''[[BareFistedMonk Fists]]''': Any person, [[HeroesFightBarehanded sometimes the hero]], who carries no weapon when everybody around him is carrying one is either cocky enough to ''believe'' that he doesn't need a weapon, or highly-skilled enough to ''know'' that he doesn't need a weapon. The two are generally completely opposite in characterization, with the cocky version generally being a braggart and a bit of an ass, and the other being contemplative and spiritual to the point of being a MartialPacifist or a WarriorTherapist. Or they're just a TechnicalPacifist, this might even include [[{{Superhero}} superheroes]] with a [[ThouShallNotKill no-kill policy]]. Bonus points if they have SuperStrength. Be warned, however, that the latter level of expertise may also contain the ArrogantKungFuGuy, who really ''is'' as good as he brags about. However, some others...
** '''[[PowerFist Gauntlets and Such]]''' ...compromise with practicality. Though some have [[RedRightHand little choice in the matter]]. Alternatively, a weapon for massive [[TheBigGuy bruisers]], in which case they're another kind of '''[[DropTheHammer Hammer]]''' and signify a direct, brute-force attitude.
** '''[[WolverineClaws Claws]]''': Those refer to gloves equipped with sharp, metal claws. This one appears to be a favorite of {{Fragile Speedster}}s of all kinds as well as more [[CombatPragmatist pragmatic]] martial artists.
** '''[[ArmedLegs Greaves]]''': These are fighters from a martial tradition (almost exclusively Asian) who are nonetheless using "greaves," the metal shin guards worn by European knights. Such fighters use their feet as their primary attack options: what would be the point of wearing metal boots if you intended to punch someone? Technically, gauntlets and greaves are armor, not weapons... But [[CombatPragmatist since when has that stopped anyone]]?
** '''{{Natural Weapon}}s''': Some characters have something better than fists. Claws, tails, talons, and so forth. These weapons imply a character is feral and savage, almost more animal than man... after all, if they weren't, they'd pick up a weapon and kill each other like civilized people.
* '''[[EpicFlail Flails and other chain weapons]]''': Halfway between a whip and a bludgeon, a big spiked ball on a chain can make for an intimidating weapon. As such, they tend to be wielded by equally intimidating [[TheBrute brutes]] and other scary characters. Flails tend to be wielded by the fearless and/or the particularly skilled, because a mistake can easily see the weapon hurting the wielder. Many more varieties of chain weapons exist in the east; [[FightingWithChucks nunchaku]], kusari-gama, multi-sectional staves and the like. These are wielded by showy martial artists demonstrating their prowess, evil martial artists hoping to confuse the nice guy with a scary foreign weapon, or by HighlyVisibleNinja who should know better.
** '''[[KillerYoYo Yo-yos]]''': The quirkier and often more accurate/precise cousin to the Flail, created by adding a [[SpectacularSpinning spin]] to the weapon, bonus points if the yo-yo deploys a [[ChainsawGood saw blade or other cutting device]] mid-trajectory. Yo-yos frequently have the benefit in fiction of always returning to the user, regardless of the trajectory it took. Yo-yos are often wielded as a more unique alternative to the traditional Flail, or as an ImprovisedWeapon in the hands of a child (i.e. Ness from Earthbound).
** '''[[FightingWithChucks Nunchucks/Nunchaku]]''': A sign of a martial arts expert, especially the BruceLeeClone. For some reason, it is also associated with {{Ninja}}, despite being a weapon that's very ill-suited for the quick, stealthy kills that shinobi would want to pull off.
* '''[[ImpossiblyCoolWeapon Fundamentally Absurd Weapons]]''': Often a game will have a weapon that makes the aforementioned anchors look simple and logical. These objects almost always appeal to the RuleOfCool, and are ridiculously overpowered. [[InfinityPlusOneSword Napalm Chainsaw-Nunchuck-Missile-shooting Double Gunswords]], anyone?
* '''Gadgets:''' Often the domain of the GadgeteerGenius, TheSmartGuy, and the ScienceHero. Characters who rely on gizmos and technology tend to be smart and are usually young, rarely exceeding middle aged. Bonus points if these gadgets are HomemadeInventions. May manifest as a ShoePhone if in the hands of spies.
* '''[[TheGunslinger Guns]]''': [[FantasyGunControl In a setting where guns are rare]], they will be mostly the province of TheSmartGuy. Works that paint such weapons as dishonorable, such as many old style martial arts movies, will often give them to the bad guys. In settings where they are more common, they take the place of swords, with the largest going to the hero and [[RareGuns the most distinctive]] going to the badass. In any case, the protagonists are invariably [[ImprobableAimingSkills impossibly good shots]], while the {{Mooks}} [[ImperialStormtrooperMarksmanshipAcademy suck]]. When guns aren't so rare, the type of gun often is a shorthand for the type of user, leading to GoodGunsBadGuns in the West. The big list of GunsAndGunplayTropes details more ways how the heat a character packs tells the audience who they are.
** '''{{Handguns}}''': The trusty handgun is a favorite of [[TheGunslinger Gunslingers]] of all stripes. If the setting is one in which everyone uses firearms, TheHero and the BigBad are the most likely to use these. Any badass who uses a pistol will double up for some kickass GunsAkimbo. Unless it's a Western, or the character needs their other hand for something.
*** '''[[HandCannon Hand Cannons]]''': High recoil big frame handguns chambered for magnum pistol or rifle cartridges, Hand Cannons are much more powerful than ordinary pistols and the weapon of choice for ''Film/DirtyHarry'' type characters.
*** '''[[RevolversAreJustBetter Revolvers]]''': The favored weapon of {{Cowboy}}s, typically found in a [[TheWildWest Wild West]] setting.
** '''[[ShotgunsAreJustBetter Shotguns]]''': [[ShortRangeShotgun They're close enough to punch]], but you'd rather blow a hole right through them. The AntiHero, TheDragon, and the ZombieApocalypseHero will invariably carry around a 12-gauge (often of the [[SawedOffShotgun sawed-off variety]]).
** '''[[SniperRifle Rifles]]''': Death from a distance. A favorite of the ColdSniper and other people looking to reach out and score a [[BoomHeadshot head shot]]. More badass [[ElitesAreMoreGlamorous elite types]] such as Special Forces or [[ItsRainingMen Paratroopers]] might have a shortened [[AceCustom carbine]] with a collapsible or folding stock and [[GunAccessories a few choice optics and accessories]].
** '''[[MoreDakka Automatics]]''': If it's not a war movie, then any sort of automatic weapon will be carried by the {{Mooks}}, due to their ubiquitousness and lack of [[RuleOfCool style]]. (Semi-automatics will be the standard if technology is up to it, and will usually have [[BottomlessMagazines impossibly large magazines]].) The exceptions are Uzis and other sub-machine guns, which may be given to the badass (especially if they're [[GunsAkimbo dual-wielded]]), and the...
** '''[[GatlingGood Gatling Gun]]''': A huge minigun is the favorite weapon of TheBigGuy, as well as some particularly intimidating [[TheDragon Dragons]].
** '''[[{{BFG}} Explosives and other Big Weapons]]''': Any sort of oversized gun, including rocket and {{Grenade Launcher}}s, may find similar use in the hands of TheBigGuy.
** '''[[FireBreathingWeapon Flamethrowers]]''': Are a favorite of the PyroManiac.
** '''RayGun''': Also known as "blasters", those guns that fire rays, light, waves and other shiny stuff are a common element of ScienceFiction works (especially those set in outer space, where the bright plasma contrasts well with the mostly black background), effectively replacing traditional, gunpowder-based guns. In contemporary settings where they are more uncommon, one can find them in the hands of dangerous, superintelligent characters such as [[MadScientist mad scientists]] or [[AlienInvasion hostile alien invaders]].
** '''[[MagneticWeapons Railguns]]''': Railguns, Coilguns and any forms of Mass Drivers are normally the weapon of choice when you want a compromise between Sci-Fi and Bullets, firing a high velocity, non-laser projectile in a suitably futuristic style.
* '''Knives''': Generally, knife-wielders come in three flavors. There's the PsychoKnifeNut, an AxCrazy character who loves to stab people to death. They may love knives for their ability to either kill quickly and viciously, or slowly and painfully depending on how they're used; alternatively, it could simply be the fact that most people have several sharp knives in their kitchen, making them a very easily accessible murder weapon once their SanitySlippage reaches that point. Knives are also [[DeviousDaggers the favorite weapon of sneaky and deceitful characters]] such as thieves, assassins, spies, and {{ninja}}. Their small size makes them easy to conceal, and thus an ideal weapon for stabbing someone InTheBack. It also makes them lightweight, letting their wielder move around agilely and unencumbered both in and out of combat. Lastly, there's the rugged survivalist, likely the nicest and most honorable of the bunch, who loves their knife not just as a weapon, but as a versatile tool: they'll use their blade to cut away plants, carve wood, skin animals, prepare meals, and much more. That said, some overlap probably exists between all three categories. A recurring pattern is for knife-wielders to be {{Combat Pragmatist}}s who use sneaky and underhanded moves to compensate for their weapon's short reach; in gaming, the character will likely be a FragileSpeedster, StealthExpert, and/or CriticalHitClass.
** '''[[KukrisAreKool Kukris]]''': Despite being fundamentally similar to machetes in many ways, they're more often seen in the hands of more straightforwardly heroic characters like the AdventurerArchaeologist or modern incarnations of the ForestRanger. Also [[UsefulNotes/NepaliWithNastyKnives Gurkhas]], obviously, and characters in [[UsefulNotes/AussiesWithArtillery the Australian Army]], who issue them as standard for jungle warfare.
** '''[[MacheteMayhem Machetes]]''': The machete and related blades are used by characters who live wild, or have wild, untamed natures, calling back to its use in the wilderness. Usually used by an AntiHero, or an AxCrazy psycho killer. However, they can be used by anyone in a jungle setting, when used as a tool.
** '''{{Sai|Guy}}''': Used by ninja or characters who are ninja-like. Often treated like exotic daggers despite being more of a disarming tool. They do look very cool though, which is why characters that wield them tend to be badass.
** '''[[SinisterSwitchblade Switchblades]]''': Folding blades, especially ones that open with a flick of a button, are wielded by petty crooks. The short and relatively fragile nature of the knives also make it likely that the wielder is going after someone unarmed or held up by said wielder's "associates."
** '''[[KnifeThrowingAct Throwing Knives]]''': If a character specializes in throwing knives, he's probably either very flashy (a la the circus knife thrower) or extremely subtle, with weapons hidden all over his body.
* '''{{Magic Wand}}s''': Not so much a weapon for "beating them over the head" but rather "[[SquishyWizard blow them up with a bigger fireball]]." More of a favorite with wizards, witches and such than the staff, but they often [[MagicStaff combine them]] for the best of both worlds. Not necessarily always a wand, this covers any object used for spellcasting.
** '''{{Spell Book}}s''': Wizards who carry spell books tend to [[TheSmartGuy look intellectual and scholarly]]. They can range from dorky apprentices who are still getting used to basic spells to older, wise wizards who probably write their own books (usually, the larger and thicker the book is, the better). Also, a common BigBad tool. ThrowTheBookAtThem is a rare tactic, but can still show up if the RuleOfFunny is in play.
* '''[[PowerfulPick Pickaxes]]''': Used exclusively by miners and other people that work in a digging business (like farmers). Despite the presence of the word "axe", they tend to be wielded more like hammers thanks to their shape and weight.
* '''[[TorchesAndPitchforks Pitchforks]]''': The official weapon of the unruly mob, this is normally used by a farmer or small-town folk defending his home. Shotguns and hunting rifles can also fill this niche in a modern setting. You may also see some [[BigRedDevil traditionalist]] [[OurDemonsAreDifferent infernals]] wielding pitchforks to prod the damned with.
* '''[[BladeOnAStick Polearms]]''': Usually, a polearm - such as a poleaxe, spear, halberd, or any other weapon that's a long stick with something sharp and metal on one end - is the province of hapless {{Mooks}}: city guardsman, honor guard, and so on. Anyone who needs something long to cross over a portal to prevent someone from entering will use a polearm. When not in the hands of mooks, they are the weapon of choice for calm collected individuals, while plain spears are also standard issue for the NobleSavage. Occasionally an RPG will have a powerful weapon that happens to be a halberd (probably the best polearm design ever conceived, as [[SwissArmyWeapon it is an axe, a spear, and a staff]] all in one weapon) or spear (the most basic and thus most well known polearm), but you're damned if you're gonna find ''any'' ancestral bec-de-corbins in any medieval-flavored fantasy novel ''anywhere''.
** '''[[ProngsOfPoseidon Trident]]''': The weapon of sea gods like Poseidon, Proteus and Nereus and merpeople is now the weapon of anyone associated with the sea or water. Not entirely contrived, as the trident was originally a fishing spear, hence its pairing with a fishing net in the hands of a ''retiarius'' (a type of Roman gladiator).
** '''[[JoustingLance Knight Lances]]''': Often given to characters with such a theme. Since most people who see lances undoubtedly think of its use in jousting as a knightly sport weapon, the lance might be used to indicate a chivalric personality or aristocratic position. Since the lance was a cavalry weapon, and cavalry tended historically to be something of an elite, trained fighting class in every army, you will rarely see it in the hands of the common man.
** '''[[NaginatasAreFeminine Naginatas]]''' are used primarily by elegant [[LadyOfWar Ladies of War]], given their historical use by the wives of samurai.
* '''[[LawmanBaton Police Batons]]''': For guards and policemen.
* '''[[KnowsTheRopes Ropes]]''': Popular with cowboys, who use lasso not only to restrain cattle, but outlaws and other troublemakers. Sailors and pirates may also occasionally employ lots of rope, often to climb the rigging or to swing onto an enemy ship.
* '''[[ShearMenace Scissors]]''': If a pair of scissors is being used as a weapon, then expect it to be of the big, gardening variety. Anything smaller won't be taken seriously unless the user is a tailor or hairdresser, in which case they will demonstrate the scissors equivalent of ImplausibleFencingPowers. They can also be a pretty frightening ImprovisedWeapon in a life or death situation, particularly when used to stab. Also [[RockPaperScissors super-effective]] against PaperPeople, but not so much against {{Rock Monster}}s.
* '''[[SinisterScythe Scythes]]''': Especially for villains and goths despite being very [[AwesomeButImpractical impractical to actually fight with]]. Associated with [[TheGrimReaper death]], or [[{{Necromancer}} those who command it]]. It should be noted that a [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_scythe scythes can be made into an effective weapon]] by reattaching the blade so it extends upright from the pole. Alternatively the Chinese had a [[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dagger-axe workable version]] even before that. These more effective designs are rarely seen in fiction. Oddly enough, rarely if ever used by farmers, who prefer Slings and Pitchforks.
* '''[[LuckilyMyShieldWillProtectMe Shields]]''': Surprisingly rare for major fictional characters. Usually meant to be used alongside another one-handed weapon (such as the good ol' [[KnightlySwordAndShield sword and board]]), but many characters will use ''only'' a shield, usually as a TechnicalPacifist or [[PersonalityPowers matching their personality]] as either defensive and fragile, or protective of others. Or simply as an [[ImprobableWeaponUser Improbable Weapon]]. Shields are almost always near-indestructible, magical or made of {{Unobtainium}}. Some characters (like ComicBook/CaptainAmerica) can actually [[ThrowingYourShieldAlwaysWorks throw them]].
* '''[[DruidicSickle Sickles]]''': Pagan clergy and the occasional farmer.
* '''[[SufferTheSlings Slings]]''': They're usually associated with peasants, children, {{halfling}}s and primitive tribesman. Rarely an effective weapon in fiction, they are more likely to distract than cause real damage, [[Literature/TheBible David and Goliath]] aside. Historically, however, slings were very powerful weapons, more devastating and long-ranged than the bow, which was not well developed in some areas of the Ancient World.
* '''[[BratsWithSlingshots Slingshots]]''': Seen as a kid's toy (and for good reason, since slingshots are generally weak and difficult to aim, making them impractical for battle), these are generally in the hands of a mischievous child who wants to annoy rather than harm. If used by adults, it's because they're either improvising or something of an oddball.
* '''[[SimpleStaff Staves/Staffs]]''': Favored weapon of either the TechnicalPacifist or martial artists, who wish to disable enemies non-lethally. Those trying for historical accuracy may have them appear in the hands of RobinHood and his merry men, or other persons legally or practically barred from possession of edged weapons for their close-range fighting needs.
** '''[[BoomStick GunStaffs]]''', for when you need the ability to beat things over the head and shoot people in a single package. [[MagicStaff Wizard's staves]] count here but it can also be a technological gizmo that shoots electricity, for defensive characters who DO want to use deadly force.
** '''[[MagicStaff Magic Staffs]]''': Magic variants favoured by wizards and other wise characters that rely on talents other than brute force to deal with conflict still sensibly bring at least a staff for protection. This covers the WhiteMagicianGirl and the BlackMagicianGirl, both of whom typically use them. In the former's case, they'll typically be called Staves, while in the latter's case, they'll be Rods/Wands.
** '''[[TelescopingStaff Telescoping Staff]]''', the version exclusive to melee combat. This kind of staff allows for easy storage due to its ability to be made compact, better for catching opponents off guard with a weapon of that size.
** '''[[BattleBaton Batons]]''': Utilized by cheerleaders as a sort of mini-staff. Can sometimes act as a boomerang for some reason.
* '''[[ImprobableWeaponUser Strange Weapons]]''': If a character is just [[ImprovisedWeapon improvising]] and ordinarily goes unarmed, he's probably the UnluckyEverydude who just got caught in a fight (like most of the characters Jackie Chan plays). If someone regularly goes around with a weapon like this, they're not totally connected to reality -- either TheDitz or the {{Cloudcuckoolander}}, or they're so badass they can kill people without needing "regular" weapons. Or they have a need to go armed in portions of society that do not take kindly to the presence of actual weapons, and have adapted accordingly.
** '''[[GrievousHarmWithABody Dead Bodies]]''': As long as they can be lifted, dead bodies can be used as [[GrievousHarmWithABody makeshift clubs]], or a [[{{Necromancer}} personal]] [[TheUndead army]].
** '''[[FryingPanOfDoom Frying Pans]]''': Favored by traditional wives and chefs, this one is a staple of {{Slapstick}}. Also a common [[JokeItem Joke Weapon]] in Main/VideoGames, and thus gets to be wielded by {{Cloudcuckoolander}}s.
** '''[[RollingPinOfDoom Rolling Pin]]''': Essentially the same as the frying pan above. The ApronMatron will use this to hit her HenpeckedHusband on the head to keep him in line.
** '''[[EdibleBludgeon Food]]''': Completing the holy trifecta of kitchen-based weaponry, we have food itself. Common wielders are usually the same as the ones that use frying pans and the rolling pins mentioned above plus [[BigEater hungry]] {{Fat Bastard}}s who may eat their own weapon after bludgeoning you to death with it. A [[{{Foodfight}} food fight]] will definitely include this. Food that is commonly used as weapons include [[BaguetteBeatdown baguettes]] (in which case, expect the user to be a frenchman), [[PieInTheFace pies]] (clowns), [[ShamuFu fish]], frozen meat and fruit.
** '''[[GrievousBottleyHarm Bottles]]''': The official weapon of drunk {{Bar Brawl}}ers. Usually, the bottle will be broken in half so that the wielder may use the upper half as a stabbing weapon, but the entire bottle being used as a kind of glass club also works.
** '''[[ChairmanOfTheBrawl Chairs]]''': The ''other'' official weapon of drunk {{Bar Brawl}}ers. This one is also commonly used by thugs and {{Heel}} wrestlers, in particular the folding, metal kind.
** '''[[CrowbarCombatant Crowbars]]''': The preferred weapon of urban survivalists, especially zombie hunters and [[VideoGame/HalfLife physicists]], and others who appreciate its dual use as both an improvised weapon and useful prying tool.
** '''[[ShovelStrike Shovels]]''': May be used by farmers, construction workers, [[VideoGame/ShovelKnight knights]] and the creepy gravedigger at the local cemetery. Also useful for psychopathic murderers as shovels can be used for beating people into unconsciousness before burying their bodies somewhere ([[BuriedAlive alive]] or not).
** '''[[WrenchWhack Wrenches]]''': For inventors, mechanics, scientists and other people that like messing with machinery.
** '''[[ParasolOfPain Parasols]]''': Be careful of cute ladies, older gentlemen or grannies carrying those. It might have a concealed gun or blade, and this is assuming they don't just outright whack you over the head with it. [[ParasolParachute Useful for gliding as well]].
** '''[[ShoeSlap Shoes]]''': The weapon of choice for many a woman or mother from or in Mexico. Chanclas ("sandal" or "flip-flop" in Spanish) are the most popular kind of shoe used for this purpose. Can be used to point as someone in a threatening, protective, or aggressive manner, to shove in someone's face, or to throw at them. It is customary for the one at the receiving end of the shoe throwing to fetch the shoe for the one who threw the shoe. In some cultures, the use of a shoe as a weapon is meant to be extremely insulting to the person it is used against because shoes are considered to be dirty.
** '''[[BroomstickQuarterstaff Mops and broomsticks]]''': Used by specifically grumpy janitors and housewives. Witches may also use enchanted ones that act like glorified magic wands. (Only brooms though. Any witch with a mop is likely going to be made fun of).
** '''Microphones''': Usually reflects users that have larger than life personalities and are fixated on being the center of attention, akin to a rockstar or entertainer. Non-magic users often use these as clubbing weapons or piercing weapons if they are attached to the microphone stand. These users can be [[WouldYouLikeToHearHowTheyDied sadistic]] as [[BreakThemByTalking they want to torment others]], or they want to send a message to other would-be victims.
* '''[[CoolSword Swords]]''': Will probably be considered the "default" weapon in any setting where guns aren't commonplace (and in a few where they are). [[HeroesPreferSwords The heroic lead]] usually winds up wielding the iconic knightly sword in the west. The katana often takes its place in the east. Meanwhile, the big two-handed blades, if they're not in the hands of the hero, usually go to TheBigGuy.
** '''[[RoyalRapier Rapier]]''': Rapiers and short-swords typically go to swashbucklers and foppish men. Also quite common for women, [[RealityIsUnrealistic being commonly perceived as light]], easily manoeuvrable blades.
** '''[[KatanasAreJustBetter Katanas]]''': If both katanas and western swords are present, the katana will either be in the hands of a badass (if KatanasAreJustBetter) or an {{Otaku}} who isn't as badass as they think they are (if not).
** '''[[SinisterScimitar Scimitars, Sabers and other curved swords]]''': In Arabian or Pirate settings, this kind of sword is considered the "default" weapon and may be used by good and bad guys alike. Outside of those settings, however, it's almost always used by scary, intimidating characters or armies, following the logic of curved weapons detailed above.
** '''[[{{BFS}} Big Freaking Sword]]''': Typically found in the hands of large intimidating characters, like giants or [[SmashMook brutish types]]. A common subversion is to have them appear in the hands of someone who doesn't look like they could even pick it up as a hint that this person is much stronger than they look. In a JRPG, however, a sword with its own zip code is more likely to belong to TheHero without necessarily having any explanation.
** '''DualWielding''': Almost always appears in the hands of roguish characters.
** '''SwordCane''': Used by the CulturedBadass and any older swordsman who wishes to lull enemies into a false sense of superiority.
** '''{{Sheath|Strike}}es''': {{Technical Pacifist}}s that don't look forward to shedding blood may use their sword's sheathes as their main form of combat, drawing their actual blades when they find themselves with no choice. Some may also {{Dual Wield|ing}} their sword and sheath, using the latter as a defensive or support tool.
** '''LaserBlade''': A sword used in a sci-fi setting. Has far more cutting power than traditional swords, sometimes with the ability to deflect lasers and bullets.
* '''[[StaticStunGun Tasers]]''': Favored weapons of cops and security guards, though can frequently seen being carried by civilians. They are especially efficient for those who have little in the way of combat skill, allowing the [[ShockAndAwe electric shock]] to disable a potential enemy. TruthInTelevision at play as tasers are a very common self-defense weapon in real life that people can carry in bags. Police may often carry the [[LawmanBaton baton]] version which gives a longer reach as well as the potential to bludgeon with melee force if the electric function fails.
* '''[[DualTonfas Tonfas]]''': Used by martial artists and law enforcement from less modern times, since the LawmanBaton has more or less replaced it in the latter's case. Still, a showy enough cop can still be found wielding those babies in occasion.
* '''[[ThrowDownTheBomblet Thrown Explosives and Incendiaries]]''': Grenades and the like are usually associated with those with poor impulse control (in plain English, people ''who really like explosions''). They may or may not also be {{Mad Bomber}}s. They may also be associated with controlled and logical people, as a juxtaposition. This weapon most often occurs in more technologically advanced settings like UrbanFantasy or ScienceFiction.
* '''[[WhipItGood Whips]]''': Whips tend to be found in the hands of cowboys, swashbuckling characters, certain [[Franchise/{{Castlevania}} vampire slayers]], [[Franchise/IndianaJones archaeologists]], [[Comicbook/{{Catwoman}} female villains with a thing for tight leather]] and a dominatrix streak, brutal slave drivers, [[TortureTechnician torturers]]... and [[Franchise/AceAttorney prosecutors]].
** '''{{Whip Sword}}s''': For when regular whips just don't [[{{Pun}} cut]] it anymore. Mostly used by particularly commanding {{Action Girl}}s, combining the cool factor of the sword with the dominatrix aspect of the whip.
