Axe
POWER MEETS PRECISION
Master the axe like the Vikings did thousands of years ago. One of mankind's oldest weapons — now in a modern training system.
- 12 levelsfrom beginner to expert
- Online + in personApp, courses and centers
- No experience neededStart at level 1
- 4.8 App Store · 126 ratings
- 5,200+ technique videos
- 60,000+ registered users
- Trainer of police and special forces
What is SAMI Axe Fighting?
SAMI Axe Fighting is a tactical combat system focused on the combat axe, tomahawk, and related impact tools. Drawing from historical European and indigenous weapon traditions, the system translates ancient knowledge into a modern, structured training methodology.
Designed primarily for professional operators and advanced martial artists, SAMI Axe Fighting covers offensive mechanics, defensive applications, and the unique tactical advantages of axe-type weapons.
- 01
Striking Mechanics & Power Generation
The axe requires unique biomechanics:
leveraged striking with the axe head
hooking, trapping, and pulling techniques
close-range pommel and shaft strikes
Mastering axe mechanics teaches efficient power transfer that enhances all impact-based combat skills.
- 02
Defensive Applications
The axe is not only offensive – it serves as a defensive tool:
shaft blocks and deflections
weapon trapping and disarms using the axe head
transitional defense between ranges
The axe provides unique defensive options not available with other impact weapons.
- 03
Historical Foundation, Modern Application
SAMI Axe Fighting bridges history and modernity:
techniques drawn from Viking, medieval, and indigenous traditions
adapted for modern tactical axes and tomahawks
applicable in professional security and military contexts
Historical depth enriches the training while modern methodology ensures practical relevance.
Your first session in the app
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Who Is SAMI Axe Fighting For?
- Military and special operations personnel
- Advanced martial artists
- Historical European martial arts (HEMA) enthusiasts
- Professional instructors and trainers
Not required: previous axe or weapon experience and military background
12 levels – from your first session to expert
Every level has clear goals. You take your exams online or at a center and receive your official SAMI diploma.
- Level 1–4FundamentalsAxe handling and striking fundamentals. 12 angles of attack, basic grip transitions, stance and footwork.
- Level 5–8Advanced TechniquesCombat drills and weapon transitions. Hooking, trapping, and disarming techniques. Dual wielding fundamentals, leg manipulations, and defense concepts against multiple weapon types.Solid axe …
- Level 9–12Mastery & TeachingExpert-level axe combat. Long axe and tomahawk mastery, advanced sparring, tactical applications.
Choose your path
In the app
Videos, guided trainings and live trainings – whenever and wherever you want.Start for freeOnline course with certificate
Axe level by level, with an exam and an official SAMI diploma.View courseAt a center
With a coach and a group at a SAMI center near you – request your trial class directly from the center.Find a trial classBecome an instructor
The certified SAMI instructor education for Axe.View the education
Next seminar: All Axe seminars
Start today – for free
Full Membership
Recommended… / month
- 5 Combat Systems: Krav Maga, Panantukan, Stick, Knife, and Axe
- Learning tracks and guided trainings
- Live trainings
- Online certification
Exams at a center: SAMI International Membership · Learn more
Peter Weckauf
Founder of the SAMI Combat Systems. Trainer of police and special forces, seminars in over 50 countries.
About SAMI
Questions about Axe
The six most important ones here, all others below.
Do I need prior weapon experience?
While SAMI Axe Fighting is designed for the professional segment, you do not need specific axe experience. Basic martial arts or combat sports background is recommended but not mandatory.
What equipment is needed for training?
Training uses rubber or foam training axes for safety. Live seminars provide all necessary equipment. For personal practice, training tomahawks and padded axes are recommended.
Is axe fighting legal to train?
Training with rubber or foam training tools is legal everywhere. SAMI Axe Fighting teaches tactical skills within a professional and educational context. Legal aspects of weapon possession vary by jurisdiction and are addressed in training.
What is the difference between axe and tomahawk techniques?
The tomahawk is lighter and allows for faster, more agile movements including throwing.
The larger axe emphasizes power, leverage, and hooking techniques. SAMI Axe Fighting covers both and teaches how to adapt principles between them.
Can axe fighting be trained online?
Fundamental striking patterns and movement drills can be studied online, but partner drills, sparring, and advanced techniques require in-person instruction with proper safety equipment. Live seminars are the primary training format.
History and philosophy of Axe
SAMI Tomahawk Fighting Concept is an axe system which is based on weapons training and its principles. The axe, or Native American Tomahawk, is one of the oldest weapons of mankind. However, there are very few training sets for this kind of weapon — making SAMI's structured approach unique in the martial arts world.
Tomahawk training enables you to reach a high level with this weapon through systematic progression and expert instruction.
2 more questions
Can I become a certified SAMI Axe Fighting instructor?
Yes. SAMI offers a structured Instructor Education Program for Axe Fighting. Due to the specialized nature of the system, the program includes additional safety and liability training components.
Three Axes. Three Identities.
Each axe type has its own combat dynamics — but all share the same core principles.
Training Axe · Rubber / Wood
Safe. Controlled. Partner-ready.
Rubber or wooden training axes enable safe partner training at full intensity. Realistic weight distribution and proportions for authentic technique work.
Weapon type: Partner drills, sparring, technique training
Tomahawk · Tactical / Compact
Tactical. Compact. Versatile.
The tactical tomahawk is light, fast, and versatile. Enables agile strikes, throwing training, and fluid weapon transitions. The weapon of choice for dynamic close combat.
Weapon type: Tactical deployment, close combat, throwing
Tactical Axe / Long Axe · Long Axe / Specialized
Power. Reach. Dominance.
The long axe provides maximum reach and leverage. Strikes, hooks, and pulling techniques unleash their full power here. For specialized applications and advanced training.
Weapon type: Specialized applications, maximum reach
Ready for level 1?
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