Francisca Axe

By Crusader1307

An early Middle Ages throwing axe, this weapon was indicative to the Frankish peoples. It was seen at The Battle of Hastings (1066). The axe head was narrower than a traditional throwing axe (being 6 to 8 inches long). Of note, was the underside of the weapon. The axe had a distinctive bend or curl extending from the cutting portion of the head and extended back towards the handle. The axe flanges were sharpened. The head was designed with and open socket which allowed it to be fitted onto different sizes of axe handles. This was helpful with regards to repair. Excellent examples of Francisca axe heads have survived into the Modern Era.