Anatomy of the Axe: The Story of One of Humanity’s Oldest Weapons

(Semi)Forgotten History of the Axe

Believe it or not, axes have probably been around for up to two million years. That’s what archaeological finds in the Olduvai Gorge suggest - a place famously nicknamed the “Cradle of Humankind”.

These prehistoric tools barely resembled today’s axes. They were basically stone tools used to cut meat or hack through hides.

Around 8000 BC, people started making stone axe-hammers, more similar to the axes we know today. Two thousand years later, people finally added what we now see as the key part - the handle.

As time went on, stone gave way to bronze and eventually to iron - materials that made axes much stronger and more durable.

More Than Just a Tool: The Axe as Weapon and Ritual Item

It probably won’t surprise you that a tool originally used for skinning animals and chopping wood soon became a weapon.

In fact, as early as the Neolithic era, axes were already used in battle, which is supported by the discovery of nearly 3,000 axes associated with the so-called “Battle Axe culture” (circa 2800 BCE). Some of the axes found in Scandinavia had decorated blades, suggesting that their owners used them not just for fighting, but also in sacred rituals.

The legendary Viking axe, born in the harsh northern lands, became more than just a weapon - It was a symbol of the warrior spirit that defined Northmen for generations to come.

During the medieval period, battle axes weren’t used by Vikings only, but also by numerous Slavic tribes. Compared to swords used back then, axes were easier and cheaper to make, yet powerful enough to cut through leather armour and lighter chainmail armour with ease.

Types of Axes: Not Just for Warriors Anymore

Axes have come a long way since the Stone Age, and today, there’s a whole range of axe types designed for all kinds of tasks. Let’s break down the most common types:

• Splitting axe: Designed for splitting wood, these axes have a specially shaped head and balanced weight for maximum impact.
• Battle axe: A medieval classic, often double-headed and designed for combat.
• Tomahawk: A compact, one-handed axe originally used by Native American tribes. Today, it is a reliable companion for camping.
• Bushcraft axe: A stronger forged axe for campers or backpackers who need to be able to chop larger logs for the fire.
• Carpenter’s axe: Precision tool for woodworkers and builders.
• Camping axe: Lightweight, easy to pack - a perfect tool for campers and hikers.
• Throwing axe: Perfectly balanced axe for competitive axe throwing. Accuracy and fun guaranteed!
• Splitting maul: A powerful axe with an 80+ cm handle, designed for splitting large logs.

Parts of Axe

No matter the type of axe or era in which it was used, most axes, whether small hatchets or powerful Viking battle axes, share the same key parts:

• Axe head: The metal part with the cutting edge. A well-crafted head was able to cut through a large log and a human skull.
• Cutting edge: The sharpened side - straight, curved, or slightly extended (“bearded”) like some Viking axes.
• Eye: The hole at the top of the head where the handle protrudes.
• Handle: Traditionally made of ash or walnut wood for strength and flexibility.
• Knob: The slightly wider and rounded section at the bottom of the handle, improving the grip.

A more detailed description of the axe parts can also be found in the image below.

Parts of an Axe:

1. Eye
2. Toe
3. Bit / Blade
4. Beard
5. Heel
6. Belly
7. Grip
8. Knob
9. Throat
10. Shoulder
11. Poll / Butt
12. Ax Head

Ready for Battle (or the Backyard)?

Whether you’re gearing up for a medieval battle re-enactment or prepping for your next camping adventure, we’ve got you covered. Check out our authentic Viking axes and two-handed battle axes inspired by historical designs.

All that’s left? Pick up your axe, and take a journey back in time!

And if you prefer competitions, our product range includes perfectly balanced throwing axes that make it easy for you to hit the target. See for yourself.