Shank (weapon)

Shanks were archaic weapons akin to a simple knife that were sometimes wielded by thieves and ne'er-do-wells.

History
Long before the late 14 century DR, thieves of Waterdeep were known to wield these primitive weapons. One of the alleys that were a gathering place for such criminals would later be known as the Shank Alley.

By the 14 century DR, shanks had become a part of a standard set of thieves' picks.