There are various types of fireman axes; the two most used are the flat head fire axe and the pick head fire ax. Either can be used for smashing windows or doors to gain entry, or to chop holes in a roof for ventilation. The firefighter axe with a flat head side can be used as a striking tool alone, or in conjunction with other firefighter tools. Pick head fire axes can be used to puncture an item by using the handle to manipulate it.