Anatomy of an axe

Discover all the facets of axes

Axe anatomy

Yes, if you're not dreaming, there really is an anatomy of the axe. The axe is a sophisticated enough instrument that each part has its own name.

 

The first axes have been around for millions of years. Over time, manufacturing techniques were perfected and uses diversified according to needs (war, construction, crafts, etc.).

 

Axes are classified into several models (see details in this article). To differentiate them, specialists rely on their characteristics.

The axe is made up of two main components: the handle and the iron, itself composed of the head and the blade.

The iron head includes :

  • The eye: this is where the handle is attached
  • The nape of the neck: this corresponds to the back of the iron.

The blade consists of :

  • The cheek
  • The cutting edge
  • The bottom edge
  • The top edge
  • The notch

The handle is traditionally made of hardwood such as hickory or ash, although today you can find axes with handles made of synthetic materials. This part can be straight or more or less curved.

If you'd like to take a closer look at all this, Les Cognées awaits you to discover axe throwing. axe throwing.

 

 

And for the more inquisitive among you, we recommend Daniel Boucard's Les Haches.

You'll learn about all the different types of axe. This age-old tool played a key role in toolmaking until the development of mechanization. Carpenters, coopers, clog makers, firemen, soldiers. Many trades had an axe in their arsenal. The main advantages of axes are their versatility, maneuverability and longevity.