False edge

The false edge is the back edge of a bladed weapon, typically a sword. This may also be referred to as the 'short edge' which may result from the habit of some swords being sharpened for only a short distance from the tip rather than the same length as the true edge.

This edge of the blade is used when using a longsword for some strikes as advocated by medieval fencing masters in fechtbucher (fencing manuals).

The false edge is not thought to have been used by fencing masters when using arming swords due to the physical weakness of the blow when utilised in a one-handed capacity, with the possible exception of unarmoured foes.