Lochabar

By Crusader1307

This battle axe had Scottish origins, and was based on many imports and variants brought into the country.  Part of the halberd family of weapons, the Lochabar is an example of "peasant weaponry".  Used initially to harvest/reap crops, it no doubt turned into a combat weapon when one was "called into service" by one's Lord or Clan Leader. Naturally, a peasant or farmer would grab the first most effective implement he could find. The axe like with attached flatten protrusions (or spike points), was used to move straw or hay bundles (much like a pitch fork). It was primarily a dual purpose implement (and this carried onto the battlefield). Typically, the axe heads (yes there where multiple head versions) - ranged up to 18 inches. One head on top, one directly underneath. This design was probably due to the fact that if one head worn down, another could still be employed (greatly lowering down time in the fields). It also created a terrifying visage across a battlefield!. The top portion of the blade was often curved (like an English Bill). On the battlefield, being mounted on 5 to 6 foot poles was normal. The weapon was a late Middle-Ages invention that saw great popularity with rebels during The Jacobite Uprisings of 1745.