"One option is to use something designed to soak up recoil, like an aluminum bat. Otherwise, there's some aftermarket grips out there for bats, crowbars and such which are designed to decrease said recoil.

Some weapons also generate less recoil by nature of use, like a warhammer, axe or whatnot."

"Nah. I'd just buy a commercial axe. No stealing or "borrowing" necessary, lots of customization and holster options too. Sharpening files are widely available too.

Though, your comment does make me think - the good thing about preferring an axe as a weapon is that a large number of buildings have some type of fire axe in their fire response inventory along with the extinguisher and alarms."

"Agreed. Buy one yourself if you choose to go down that route. Tomahawks are nice options as well. Items with polypropylene might be good to look into as well. They are lightweight, designed to bend and absorb energy and very durable.

If you have the ability, look into archery. Bows and crossbows are common options for those who are unable to purchase firearms."

"LJ is correct, make the weapon good but make your body better, I am probably old enough to be your grandpa but I can swing a mull all day and stack also. I burn six to seven cord of wood a winter, thats a fair piece of splitting and stacking. If you dont live in the sticks there are other things you can do, use your mind and develop your body, Heck come Oct come up here I will get you in shape or kill ya trying."