Axe Mastery

Axe Mastery is a Barbarian Skill in Diablo II.

Lore
''Barbarian warriors of the Shadow Wolf Tribe are masters of the axe. Through the axe, they sought to match the swiping claws and the biting teeth of the wolves with which they lived and fought beside. These first axes were but crude stones mounted on wooden hafts, and after learning the secret of steel and swords from Bul-Kathos, the axe soon fell into disfavor. Recently, however, warriors and smiths from the Steppes have perfected the axe as a weapon equal to or greater than the sword. The Wolf Tribe once again teaches the swift and terrible power of the axe to those who wish to learn how to cull the weak from the herd and to protect their pack from the legions of Hell. ''

General Information
Axe Mastery is one of the Barbarian passive weapon mastery skills, improving the Barbarian's fighting skills when wielding an Axe (be they one-handed or two-handed). Compared to other weapons, axes have the best compatibility with the top Runewords, and they can be crafted as blood weapons, giving them a few advantages over other weapon types.

Axe Mastery benefits throwing axes if they are used in a melee. If thrown, they benefit from Throwing Mastery, instead.