The flamethrower was pioneered by the German Army. It was used with greatest effect during the Hooge battle of the Western Front on 30 July 1915. The German Army had two main types of flamethrowers during the Great War.

By the close of the war flamethrower use had been extended to use on tanks, a policy carried forward to World War Two.

Both the large and small versions of the flamethrower were of limited use because of their short range, and while they were effective in terrorizing the enemy, they were easily dispatched by means of concentrated fire directed at the flamethrower operator’s fuel pack. Thus, the image of the flamethrower on the battlefield served more to incite fear among enemies rather than offer decisive tactical benefits.

In addition to using the bayonet, men often carried trench knives. They were shorter than the bayonet and used for ordinary tasks. Men used them for cutting rope, bratwurst, or any miscellaneous task. They could also be used in close combat if necessary.