brown-bill

noun1

1. •
   (historical) A type of halberd used by medieval foot-soldiers and constables, painted brown to prevent rust.

   • Let the Kanne of strong ale [be] your constable, vvith the toaste his brovvne bill, and sugar and nutmegs his vvatchmen stand in a readinesse, to entertaine mee euerie time I come by your lodging. — 1599