German scaling ladder, with scythe knife, from beginning of the 17th century. Fixed on a long shaft having at the lower end a furrow or channel which screws on to other shafts, and may be lengthened at pleasure. To touch the top of the walls of besieged places, it hooks by means of the teeth in the movable knife. The length of the movable knife is around 2 feet. Preserved in the Museum of Munich.
Scaling Ladders in Ancient Weapons and Warfare
Ancient Images
Bible History Online