Modern mobs would have chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and in the US shotguns.
Medieval society was predominately agrarian, so everyone had pitchforks for gathering or dispersing straw. Livestock and grain were a facet of all lives, even in the largest cities.
Shape and it's range of motion probably plays a bigger roll for every thing but Near Ward. Katanas are a mid point from Arming Swords and Sabers. The Arming Sword positions mostly favor a thrust reposte, while the Katana's positions mostly use the Saber's draw slice positioning.