The Battle Axe: A Weapon of War and Power

Some people look at it as an integral part of human history and warfare. Others see it as a weapon of the fantastic - a weapon used by trolls and dwarfs in the world of fantasy. A weapon meant for the strong and powerful, for they who fight face to face with their enemy, a weapon meant for brute force. It is the battle axe.

An In Depth Look At The Battle Axe

The creation of the axe started around the third century BCE, beginning with stone heads. Throughout the centuries they moved into using copper, steel, and other metals as they became available for practical use. India, the eastern Mediterranean region, and the mythological Amazons all possessed and used these weapons, and they possessed both single and double-bladed heads. However, it is more commonly associated with the Vikings during the ninth and tenth centuries and the warriors of the European Middle Ages. Poleaxes and halberds - common weaponry during the middle ages, are merely variations of the battle axe. All three variations, including the traditional, were common amongst knights and nobility before swords became the next great weapon of warfare. It is this use in the middle ages which has lent itself to become a weapon of choice amongst players of fantasy, particularly live action role playing, due to the world of fantasy often being set in a medieval landscape.

It is hard to find anything more exciting than a weapon of war which has been around for over two thousand years. The mere history and scope of the power that it possessed is spectacular. A weapon that is older than even the sword, and deadlier than many weapons as it could be double-bladed, two handed, and full of power behind any swing the wielder could possess. It takes the inertia behind the swing to deliver deadly blows to necks, arms, and legs, and a nice gash anywhere on the body if it does not cut completely through.

And what is more enjoyable than having a collection of these amazing weapons on the wall of one of your rooms? The shock and awe appeal of a majestic battle axe on the wall is entertaining and reassuring. The entertainment value comes from telling stories - whether they be true or imaginary - to your friends of what great feats you may have accomplished with such an amazing weapon. The reassurances come from having a weapon - regardless of its practicality, having a weapon of war on your wall is sure to warn off burglars and other nasties (World of Warcraft anyone?) that may threaten you.

This weapon is majestic and proud, and does honor to any who possess one.

Medieval Weapons