palstave

tool

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

A palstave was a type of bronze tool, primarily used as an ax or adz head, common in Europe during the Bronze Age. It was designed to be fitted into a split handle. Early versions featured a slot for a handle, with later modifications including a stop to prevent the shaft from splitting and eventually loops (eyes) for more secure lashing. These tools were generally small, suggesting one-handed use, and their cutting edges were typically around 3.8 cm. The development of the palstave reflects the transition from stone to metal tools and the evolving methods of hafting.123

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

4 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

hand tool
European usage
This was the palstave. To minimize splitting of the shaft, a stop was later cast at the bottom of the slot. Subsequently, one or two eyes, or loops, were furnished in the casting to allow firmer lashing.
Read More
This was the palstave. To minimize splitting of the shaft, a stop was later cast at the bottom of the slot. Subsequently, one or two eyes, or loops, were furnished in the casting to allow firmer lashing.
Read More