The Bat'letlh (or Batleth, or Bat'leth) is the symbol of Klingon honor and strength. It is probably the most widely recognized Klingon weapon in existence, and is definitely the most sought-after. It derives its name from the klingon words for sword (bat') and Honor (letlh), thus making it the Sword of Honor.
History of the Bat'lelth
The legends of Kahless the Unforgettable say that the bat'letlh was created when he took a lock of his hair and dipped it first into the volcano at Kri'stak, next into the fiery river of Lusore, and then twisted it into a sword which he used to kill Molor the tyrant.
Physical Characteristics
There are two major classes of bat'letlh: Warriors Configuration, which is approx 120cm from tip to tip; and Tournament Configuration, which is approx 140cm. Both have the three oval spaces, and the double points on each end. Variations on this theme are not as common as they were in the days of Kahless, when bat'letlh-making was an insanely prized skill. In these modern times, many bat'lelths are carved with lasers, and sanded with disruptors. It is the rare warrior indeed who carves a blade with only a hammer, anvil, and sweat.
