TLDR: A battle axe is a special type of axe that was designed for combat. It was used by warriors throughout history, from ancient times to the Middle Ages. Battle axes varied in size and weight, with some being suitable for one-handed use and others requiring two hands. They were often made of iron or steel and had a curved blade that could deliver powerful and devastating blows. Battle axes were used by different cultures around the world, including the Vikings, Persians, Chinese, and Moro tribes of the Philippines.

Summary: A battle axe is a type of axe that was specifically designed for combat. It was used by warriors throughout history, from ancient times to the Middle Ages. Battle axes were different from regular axes because they were made to be used as weapons, not tools. They were often smaller and lighter than utility axes, making them easier to wield in battle.

Battle axes came in different sizes and weights. Some were small enough to be used with one hand, while others were larger and required two hands to use effectively. The weight of a battle axe could range from just over half a kilogram to several kilograms. The length of a battle axe could also vary, with some being just over 30 centimeters long and others being over 150 centimeters long.

The shape of a battle axe's blade was also important. It was usually curved, which allowed for more powerful and devastating blows. The curved shape of the blade made it easier to cut through armor and deliver deep wounds. Battle axes were often made of iron or steel, with the blade being made of carbon steel. Some battle axes had decorative patterns on the blade, while others had all-metal handles.

Battle axes were used by different cultures around the world. They were particularly associated with the Vikings, who used them as a stock weapon during their heyday from the 8th to the 11th century. The Vikings produced different varieties of battle axes, including throwing axes and "bearded" axes. The bearded axes had a trailing lower blade edge that increased their cleaving power and could be used to catch an opponent's shield and pull it down.

In addition to the Vikings, other cultures also used battle axes. For example, the Persians had a battle axe called the tabarzin, which had one or two crescent-shaped blades. The Chinese had different types of battle axes, including the fu, yue, and ge. The Moro tribes of the Philippines used a battle axe called the panabas, which was known for its clean cutting capabilities.

As military tactics began to change and gunpowder became more prevalent, battle axes were phased out as weapons. However, they continued to be used in certain regions and for specific purposes. For example, farriers in army service carried long and heavy axes as part of their kit for removing the hooves of deceased military horses. In Scandinavia, battle axes continued to be used alongside other weapons until the 18th century.