A boarding axe resembles a miniature halberd: an axe blade backed by a spike that hooks slightly downward when the weapon is held upright.  The haft falls between that of a handaxe and a battleaxe in length, but the blade is closer in size and weight to that of a handaxe; however, with the spike and the extra length it qualifies as a one-handed rather than a light weapon.  The spike can be used for piercing attacks or to aid in climbing.

Type: Martial One-Handed Melee Weapon

Name	Cost	Dmg (S)	Dmg (M)	Critical	Range	Weight	Type
Boarding Axe	10 gp	1d4	1d6	x3	-	4 lb.	Piercing, Slashing

Special: A boarding axe can be used as a climbing tool, granting a +2 circumstance bonus to climb checks on any surface where the spike can find purchase.  It can thus assist with climbing a wooden wall or ship's hull, a rock face or masonry wall with cracks or fissures, a glacier, etc., but not a wall of metal or smooth stone, or a free-hanging rope.

Author's Note: Image courtesy of the Pitt Rivers Museum, http://webprojects.prm.ox.ac.uk/arms-and-armour/o/Daos,-Axes-and-Polearms/1884.21.57/

Additional Ratings
Balance:	1 2 3 4 5 ( 10 Votes )
Utility:	1 2 3 4 5 ( 9 Votes )
Clarity:	1 2 3 4 5 ( 10 Votes )