Bullova Axe ?

Norman McCormick · 5th August 2008, 03:16 PM

Hi Jim,
Thanks for the info as always. The history of these axes eludes me and I was hoping that some of the more experienced members might be able to flesh out the bones a little more. The net seems quite dry on this subject. Whilst I cannot add anything regarding the history and possible uses of these axes I have been able to find a number of pictorial examples on the net and there appears to be quite a difference from example to example both in quality of construction and design. The most numerous types seem to be the 'moustache' shaped blades which I don't think make the most of the 'axe concept' the force of the blow being dissipated along the length of the blade rather than concentrated in one section to make the most of the 'strike'. The one I have, and this is what attracted me in the first place, appears to have been designed for one purpose to maximise the effect of a blow. The blade has a gradual distal taper from the root of the blade to the edge with a pronounced central ridge running the full width. The ball on the shaft adds extra weight and is directly above the central point of the blade ensuring that maximum force is concentrated on the small central section of the blade for greater effect. Whether intentional or not the ball at the base of the blade could be used, I imagine, as an effective tool for crushing armour emulating the action of a mace. The effectiveness of some of the other blade profiles I've seen would appear to be somewhat compromised by their flamboyance although not having one to handle I cannot be absolutely sure. The preponderance of the 'moustache' type blades also makes me think that I might have missed something that makes them more suitable for purpose than it would first appear. I am interested in other members thoughts and hope that some might post examples that they may have in their collections.
Regards to All,
Norman.

5th August 2008, 03:16 PM	#9
Norman McCormick Member Join Date: Oct 2007 Posts: 1,618	Hi Jim, Thanks for the info as always. The history of these axes eludes me and I was hoping that some of the more experienced members might be able to flesh out the bones a little more. The net seems quite dry on this subject. Whilst I cannot add anything regarding the history and possible uses of these axes I have been able to find a number of pictorial examples on the net and there appears to be quite a difference from example to example both in quality of construction and design. The most numerous types seem to be the 'moustache' shaped blades which I don't think make the most of the 'axe concept' the force of the blow being dissipated along the length of the blade rather than concentrated in one section to make the most of the 'strike'. The one I have, and this is what attracted me in the first place, appears to have been designed for one purpose to maximise the effect of a blow. The blade has a gradual distal taper from the root of the blade to the edge with a pronounced central ridge running the full width. The ball on the shaft adds extra weight and is directly above the central point of the blade ensuring that maximum force is concentrated on the small central section of the blade for greater effect. Whether intentional or not the ball at the base of the blade could be used, I imagine, as an effective tool for crushing armour emulating the action of a mace. The effectiveness of some of the other blade profiles I've seen would appear to be somewhat compromised by their flamboyance although not having one to handle I cannot be absolutely sure. The preponderance of the 'moustache' type blades also makes me think that I might have missed something that makes them more suitable for purpose than it would first appear. I am interested in other members thoughts and hope that some might post examples that they may have in their collections. Regards to All, Norman.