
Peter Jackson’s films really emphasized the link between Dwarves and axes. In fact, several of Thorin’s companions – including Dwalin, Glóin, and Bofur – were given axes or axe-like weapons, even though the book didn’t say they used them. These depictions, along with other media, helped solidify the idea of Dwarves wielding axes in the public imagination. However, even though it’s a common idea, axes weren’t necessarily the natural weapon choice for Dwarves. Logically, smaller fighters like Dwarves would likely prefer longer weapons, like spears, to compensate for their shorter reach. So, why did Tolkien choose axes as the Dwarves’ main weapons? While Tolkien never explained this specifically, there are a few possible reasons, connected to both the history of the Dwarves within his stories and the real-world cultures that inspired them. It’s an interesting question, and one with multiple potential answers. Ultimately, the choice is a fascinating part of Tolkien’s world-building.