005- Here are a couple of spike axes. Prior to the early British issued models and the American types which followed them (ca. 1790's & on), most maritime axes were tomahawk types, meaning they had a cutting edge and wicked spike end. This allowed for them to be used as both a tool, fire implement, and weapon.
The top axe, ca. 1780-1800, blacksmith-made with nice long original haft. Although no provenance to prove sea use, it definately has many of the characteristics that indicate that it might have been, including the long haft, rounded butt to the base and generalized shape.
The botton axe ca. 1790-1830 period, blacksmith-made forged iron with steel bit edge.
|