2082 Axe

2082) An Impressive Circa 1600s Italian Long-Hafted Battle Axe With Maker’s Marks:

Introduction: In Italian, this battle axe is called “Scure d’arme inastata”.

Description: Constructed with a heavy, broad, single-edged crescent axe blade with a unique protective stop/notch at the lower base of the cutting edge. Opposite the blade is a stout, downward-curving beak (or fluke) designed to puncture armor or grab an opponent’s shield or limbs.  Near where the head meets the wooden haft, three deep star/floret smith marks are stamped into the iron. In historical European guild systems, stamping multiple marks side by side often indicated premium steel quality. The long metal reinforcing straps running down the wooden shaft are called langets. They prevent an opponent from shearing off the weapon’s head in combat and securely rivet the heavy iron head to the octagonal (replaced) wooden haft.

Condition: Good.

Length: 250 cm.

Provenance: A fine Italian collection.

Discussion: While it shares its long-shafted footprint with a standard infantry halberd, the lack of a prominent vertical top spike means it functions and categorizes primarily as a poleaxe or shafted battle axe (scure d’arme) rather than a classical halberd. Heavy infantry and bodyguards favored these weapons across Renaissance Europe because they combined the devastating cleaving power of an axe with the utility of a hook.

Conclusions: I refer to this typology of axe as the poor man’s poll axe. They cost a fraction of what a poll axe would sell for, yet perform the same function on the battlefield or in a collection of arms and armor. You are getting a lot of bang for the buck. This axe has a certain macho sinister look and feel.  When someone enters your collection room, rest assured their eyes will be drawn to this iconic piece of Renaissance pugilism. ACT-NOW!!!*

All my items come with the following:

–Free shipping.

–10-day review period.

–Certificate of Authenticity.

–Autographed copy of my book.

–In the event of an international shipment, we will help assign the lowest correct Customs tariff, so you pay the least.

I believe you will be very pleased. ACT-NOW!!!*