A perfect copy of axes that were made for the U. S. Navy in 1797 and distributed to frigates. This is the earliest known type of these longheaded axes. They also had a utilitarian side, for the teeth behind the cutting edge were used to drag away burning rigging and sails from the decks. An important and interesting piece of American history. Axe head and spike are 12-1/2″ long and the axe is 26″ overall. Cutting edge is 3-3/8″.