Codex Wallerstein showing a Page of theshowing a half-sword thrust against a Mordstreich move (Plate 214)

Mordhau, alternatively Mordstreich or Mordschlag (Ger., lit., "murder-strike" or "murder-blow"), in the German school of swordsmanship, is the term for the technique of holding the sword inverted, with both hands gripping the blade, and hitting the opponent with the pommel or crossguard. This technique allows the swordsman to essentially use the sword as a mace or hammer. The Mordhau is mainly used in armoured combat, although it can be used to surprise an opponent in close quarters. This technique has also been called a "thunder stroke".