A hand axe is a prehistoric tool made by early humans, typically crafted from stone. It features a sharp edge and a pointed end, making it useful for cutting, chopping, and scraping. Hand axes were essential for various tasks, including butchering animals and processing plant materials. They are often associated with the Acheulean culture, which dates back to around 1.76 million years ago. These tools vary in size and shape, but they generally have a teardrop or oval form. Hand axes were used by early hominins, such as Homo erectus and Homo heidelbergensis, and represent a significant advancement in tool-making technology. Their design reflects the ingenuity and adaptability of early human ancestors.