Melee weapons are tools designed for close combat, allowing individuals to engage in physical confrontation without the use of firearms. Common examples include swords, knives, clubs, and axes. These weapons rely on the user's strength and skill, making them effective in hand-to-hand combat situations. Melee weapons have been used throughout history in various cultures, often reflecting the technology and materials available at the time. They can be categorized into different types, such as slashing weapons like swords and stabbing weapons like daggers. Their design and function have evolved, but they remain significant in both historical and modern contexts.