haches

Haches are a type of hand axe, characterized by a stone head hafted to a wooden handle. The term can refer to tools used in prehistoric times, as well as more modern implements that retain a similar design. The earliest haches, dating back to the Lower Paleolithic period, are among the first recognized tools created by early hominins. These prehistoric haches were typically bifacial, meaning both sides of the stone core were worked to create a cutting edge. They served a variety of purposes, including butchering animals, digging, and shaping wood.

The design of the hache evolved over millennia, with different cultures developing distinct styles and manufacturing techniques. In later prehistoric periods, haches became more refined, with some examples exhibiting polished stone surfaces. During the Neolithic and Bronze Ages, metal versions of the hache began to appear, often made of bronze or copper. These metal haches offered greater durability and a sharper edge compared to their stone predecessors.

In contemporary contexts, the term "hache" is often used interchangeably with "hatchet" or "axe," particularly for smaller, one-handed chopping tools. These modern haches are commonly used for tasks such as splitting firewood, clearing brush, and general utility work. While the materials and specific designs have changed, the fundamental concept of a sharpened blade attached to a handle for cutting and chopping remains consistent with the ancient hache.