Tomahawk is a light axe formerly used as a tool or weapon by certain
Native Americans. The term is a derivation of the Algonquian words "tamahak"
or "tamahakan", definitions applied to stone-headed implements
used as tools and weapons involving all manners of striking weapons;
wood clubs, stone-headed axes. With the exception of a relative few made by Indian blacksmiths, tomahawks were manufactured on a large scale in Europe or created by individual makers in America. Some tomahawks were created elaborately with fancy engravings and pewter or silver inlaid blades and handles. The styles or adornments varied depending on the material available and the customs of the region. Hafts were polished smooth, carved, scalloped, inlaid, wrapped with copper or brass wire, covered with rawhide, leather or cloth, painted and hung with every type of imaginable ornaments.
The variety of metals used for creating tomahawks were solid iron, iron with a welded steel bit, brass with steel bit and solid brass. Most tomahawks measured less than 18 inches (45 centimeters) long and were light enough to be used with one hand. The warriors used their tomahawks as clubs or threw them at their enemies and these also served as hunting weapons.
