Key Point: A Lochaber axe is a Scottish polearm with a broad axe blade and a spike on the reverse side, primarily used for battle. The overall length of a Lochaber axe ranges from around 150 to 180 centimeters.
This article will cover everything there is to know about the Lochaber Axe. You will see what it is, what prompted the Scots to develop it, and why the Lochaber Axe ultimately disappeared from action.
But before we begin, let’s cover one thing first. What is a Lochaber Axe? And why was it developed?
The Lochaber Axe was a polearm that was developed in the Scottish Highlands. It consisted of a long wooden shaft with a large blade mounted at the end. The weapon was used by the clans in the region to defend against mounted knights and was particularly effective in close combat. The Lochaber Axe could be used both on foot and on horseback.
Now, let’s check out the history behind the Lochaber axe …
The History Behind This Weapon
It is believed that the Lochaber Axe was developed in response to the need for a weapon that could be used to defend against mounted knights.
The Scottish Highlands were a remote and rugged area that was often subject to raids from neighboring clans and attacks from English armies. The clans there needed a weapon that was versatile enough to be used on foot and on horseback, and the Lochaber Axe proved to be an effective solution.
The Axe itself was named after the Lochaber region of Scotland where it was first used. The weapon gained popularity throughout the Scottish Highlands and was used by the clans in many battles, including the famous Battle of Killiecrankie.
Let’s talk about this battle for a second …
The Battle Of Killiecrankie
The Lochaber Axe gained notoriety for its use during the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689. This battle was fought between the Jacobites, who were supporters of the deposed King James II of England, and the government troops led by General Hugh Mackay.
During the battle, the Jacobites charged at the government troops wielding the Lochaber Axe. Their ferocity and skill proved instrumental in their victory over the government troops.
And that is how the Lochaber Axe made a name for itself.
Now, that the history portion is over. Let’s examine the dimensions of the Lochaber Axe.
Dimensions Of The Lochaber Axe
The Lochaber Axe measured between 6 to 7 feet in length. While its blade was 12 to 18 inches long and 3 to 6 inches wide. The wooden pole had a diameter of approximately 2 inches at the base.
And The Materials Used?
The blade of a Lochaber Axe was made from iron or steel, while the pole was made from hardwood. The wood was often sourced from the local area, with ash and oak being the most commonly used types of wood.
Now, for the fun stuff. How was the Lochaber Axe used in battle? Let’s examine the tactics.
Tactics Used With The Lochaber Axe
The Lochaber Axe was primarily used by Scottish Highlanders as a close-combat weapon. The weapon’s long pole and sharp blade allowed the user to strike from a safe distance. While the hook on the back of the blade could be used to trip an opponent or pull them off their horse.
That hook is something that the Scots used to great effect against mounted units.
The Lochaber weapon was also effective in disarming opponents by hooking their weapon and pulling it away. And as you can imagine, finding yourself without a weapon in front of an enemy, was …. dangerous (to say the least).
Now, how does the Lochaber Axe compare to other polearms of the era? Let’s find out.
How Does The Lochaber Axe Compare?
The Lochaber Axe had a longer blade than most other polearms, which gave the user more reach. The weapon was also lighter than most other polearms, which made it easier to wield in battle.
The longer reach of the weapon provided greater safety to its user since it distanced them from the opponent. But in the end that was not enough. Since despite its effectiveness the Lochaber Axe disappeared from the field of battle. Let’s examine the actual reasons why that happened.
Disappearance Of The Lochaber Axe
The Lochaber Axe began to disappear from the battlefield in the 18th century as the Highland clans were disbanded. The British were not so keen to have groups of people with military experience congregate together and plan their own liberation. Go figure.
So, while the clans were disbanded the Lochaber Axe still had a role to play. The weapon continued to be used by the Highlanders for ceremonial purposes and in traditional Scottish games such as the caber toss.
The reason for its downfall is somewhat different from the downfall of this polearm. Which met the same fate but for different reasons.
In Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope you learned a thing or two about the Lochaber Axe. If you wish you can continue exploring polearms by taking a look at my article on the winged spear, right here.
Take care!
Sources:
“Scottish Weapons and Fortifications 1100-1800” by Michael Turnbul