The Danish Bearded Axe
Axes were used in combat from pre historical times until well through the Rennaisance, where in the form of the poll - axe they enjoyed a last great resurgance of popularity. From the 13th - 15th Centuries European knights adopted the poll- axe as one of their favorite weapons, it almost reached the status of the Sword. Simultaneously, peasant armies such as those of the Swiss, adopted the axe into pole arms such as Halberds, which they used to defeat Knights for the first time since the Dark Ages began.
Norse and Germanic people used specialized axes in combat both as melee and missile (throwing) weapons such as the hurlbat. Leading up to the days of Charlemagne, one notoriously primitive and warlike German was tribe known as the "Franks" after their characteristic throwing Axe which they called a "Francesca" (Ultimately, this is the etymological origin of the name of the country of France as well!) Certain classical scholars claimed that the Franks, who lacked the metalurgy to make either good swords or effective armor, hurled these axes on the run into their enemies shields, (the axes sometimes spinning and richocheting off the ground). They then allegedly stepped on the axe handle at full gallup to pull their enemies shields down and expose them as they swarmed over to cut throats, and thrust spears through soft bellies. Makes for a nice image anyway!
This bearded axe however is designed as a hand-to-hand weapon, for use in conjunction with a shield. An axe is not as effective defensively or as versatile as a sword, it lacks the reach of a spear, and can never be thought of as an elegant weapon. Yet it is incorrect to think of the Axe as the poorer cousin of the sword, even though it is cheaper to manufacture. Some warriors preferred the Axe because it could more effectively and quickly deal with armor, helmets, and shields. Axes can also be used to do fun things like hooking shield-rims to pull shields down to expose your enemy to spear attacks by allies. Whether in Martial Arts sparring, boffer play, or real life, it never pays to underestimate an axe!