How do I use an axe as a weapon?

[Stuped Bürd]

I'm new to the game, haven't even played the mod. But I found an axe so how can I use it as a weapon?

[Toecutter]

I just started last night and only played for about an hour. I also found an axe. Took a little fumbling, but I discovered I could press '1' to equip it. Again to 'holster' it. Once equipped, you should be able to swing it by pressing the mouse button. I took out a couple zeds with it right after I learned that. Much easier than trying to run away from them. I imagine you could also hit TAB and place the axe in your hands.

[Pacifist]

Normally, when you pick up an item like the axe, it'll automatically take a spot on your hotkeys. Pressing the number associated with it will equip the axe. You can also drag and drop the axe onto any hotbar number of your choice.

[ArthurDent]

Originally posted by Mycroft:

I'm new to the game, haven't even played the mod. But I found an axe so how can I use it as a weapon?

Btw, you can use the axe to open cans of sardines or baked beans, etc. Screwdriver also works. In case you're missing a can opener ;)

[SnakeEyes]

i've found that the normal ax (woodcutter's ax) seems to work about 1 out of 5 swings when trying to hit a zombie. the fire ax, however, seems to work every time...

[Pacifist]

Originally posted by SnakeEyes:

i've found that the normal ax (woodcutter's ax) seems to work about 1 out of 5 swings when trying to hit a zombie. the fire ax, however, seems to work every time...

It's all about timing. The axe will make contact with the target anywhere along the actual swing of the animation. It usually takes two hits to drop a zed with a splitting axe.

[LatentCC]

Just like Pacifist said above, the Splitting Axe takes about 2-3 hits to kill a zombie. But I have dropped zombies in one hit to the head (not difficult to do, they usually charge you head first or you can sneak up behind them). I actually use a Pristine Splitting Axe because all the Fireman Axes I find are damaged, but as soon as I can find a Pristine FM Axe, I will swap because they are more powerful. Yes, you can use axes to open cans but I don't suggest it since you lose roughly 40%-60% of the can's contents. I mean you can if you are swimming in cans of food with no canopener/screwdriver but I'd say try to hold out till one of those comes along.