This phrase its history in pirate behaviour and dates back to the lost pirate city of Port Royal in Jamaica in the 1600’s.
This Caribbean paradise was the center of all local trade as well as home for many pirates sailing the coastal waters between Newfoundland to Columbia as well as home to those who benefited from the fortunes of illegal bounty.
Back then, most weapons consisted of single shot black powder weapons and cutlasses.
When boarding a ship, pirates would carry as many of these weapons at once to keep up the fight.
As if that wasn’t enough , they oftentimes carried a knife in their teeth as well, allowing for the maximum in arms capability.