Weapons of the Highlands: The Scottish Trinity
The Lochaber Axe is a unique and historic weapon that is deeply rooted in Scottish culture and tradition. With its distinct design and features, this has been used for centuries in a variety of settings, from battles to hunting and woodcutting. In this blog post, we will explore the rich history and unique characteristics of it. so, then let’s delve into the world of the Lochaber Axe and discover what makes it such a special and significant part of Scottish heritage.
Their History & Origin:
The Lochaber axe, with a history dating back to at least the 15th century, has earned its reputation as a formidable weapon. Its name, indicating its origin in the Lochaber region of the western Highlands, has been associated with the development and early popularity of the weapon. Some sources even credit its invention to Fort William, a claim that is promoted by the local museum. The axe, which varied in form, typically featured a blade attached to the shaft at two points and a sharp point at the top, accompanied by a cleek (an iron hook) attached to the back of the blade.
The butt cap or butt spike helped to counter the weight of the blade and protect the shaft from damage. Some designs incorporated langets, reinforcing bars that helped protect the upper shaft from breaking blows.
The Lochaber axe, used as a polearm by infantry against cavalry or as a melee weapon against other massed infantry, was a versatile weapon on the battlefield. Its blade could cut a horse’s legs, break pike shafts, or hack at groups of footmen. The cleek was designed to catch the clothing of a rider and pull them off their horse, allowing them to be finished off with a chop. The butt cap was used for
thrusting or parrying, combined with sweeps of the blade, against a line of infantrymen. Although firearms made polearms like the Lochaber axe obsolete by the 17th century, the Scottish local clan armies, lacking cavalry, still found it to be a useful defense against horsemen, often English. In clan-on-clan melees, it was a fierce and formidable weapon. Even after it was outmoded on the battlefield, this has continued to be carried by civil militias, such as the Edinburgh City Guard.
Their Design & Features:
The Lochaber Axe is a significant component of Scottish culture, with a unique design comprising of an ash wood handle and a metal head featuring a sharp blade and a hook. It is commonly constructed using steel and ash, with variations in weight and length based on its intended use for hunting, wood chopping, or battle.
The curved blade allows for precise control in cutting, while the hook facilitates quick disarming of opponents. The handle is expertly crafted to fit the user’s hand, providing superior grip and control.
Fun Fact!
Certainly! As we previously discussed, the axe belongs to the same class of weapons as the halberd, voulge, and bill. It features an 18-inch chopping blade on a 5-6 foot wooden shaft and was first recorded in 1501 as an “old Scottish batale ax of Lochaber fasoun.” We also noted that a woodcut from circa 1521 showcases a variety of Scottish weapons, including the two-handed sword of war (the Claymore), voulge (Lochaber axe), ballock/rondell dagger (Scottish dirk) and Sgian dubh, which further evolved in Scotland.
Different Uses Of It:
The Lochaber axe is a type of polearm that originated in Scotland. It has a distinctive design that consists of a long wooden shaft with a wide, curved blade at one end and a pointed spike at the other. it can be used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including:
- Combat: it was primarily used as a weapon in battle. Its long reach and sharp blade made it an effective tool for cutting down enemies, while the spike on the opposite end could be used for thrusting and piercing armor.
- Hunting: In addition to its use as a weapon, the Lochaber axe was also used for hunting. Its sharp blade made it useful for cutting through thick underbrush and for dispatching game.
- Farming: it was sometimes used on farms for chopping wood and clearing land. Its sturdy design and sharp blade made it an effective tool for these tasks.
- Logging: The Lochaber axe was also used in the logging industry for felling trees and cutting them into manageable pieces. Its long handle provided leverage and its sharp blade made it easier to cut through tough wood.
"Frequently Asked Questions"
What is a Scottish axe called?
The Scottish axe is commonly known as a “Lochaber axe”.
What are it's Unique Features?
The unique features of Lochaber Axe include its curved blade, hook on the opposite side, and wooden handle made from ash.
How is Lochaber Axe used in Scottish culture?
Lochaber Axe is an important part of Scottish culture and is used in traditional Highland games, reenactments of historical battles and wars, and as a symbol of Scottish heritage.
What is it is used for?
The Lochaber axe, a type of Scottish axe, was traditionally used as a weapon in battle but is now primarily used for ceremonial and historical purposes.
How much do they weigh?
The weight of a Lochaber axe typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 pounds (1.1 to 1.6 kg), although some versions can weigh up to 6 pounds (2.7 kg).
What is the unique Lochaber Axe d2?
The Meat Scraper is a unique Lochaber Axe found in the video game Diablo II: Lord of Destruction. It is a weapon designed for physical fighters, specifically Barbarians, with decent damage output, life leech, and a high chance of inflicting Open Wounds.
