Quote Originally Posted by Ludens View Post
If I recall correctly, axes get the armour-piercing attribute, which halves the effect of enemy armour.
I thought it might be that, but I checked the export_descr_unit file, and the axes of the Axe Heerbann do not get the ap attribute. The thrown Franciscas of the Francisca Heerbann are ap, as are the Chosen Axemen of the Saxons and Alemanni. It looks like the same with regular RTW, the hand axes (Germania/Scythia axemen, Desert Axemen) are not ap, but the two-handed axes and axe-armed cavalry are.

Unless someone informs me about any advantage, right now I am fielding more Sword Heerbann where I am likely to face better units (against Rome or hordes), and Axe Heerbann where I will face worse units or deeper in my territories where I am less likely to come under attack. AH are still plenty good enough to handle most things thrown at them anyway. Against units like Steppe Horde Chosen Warriors or Comitatenses or such units, I want the extra defense of the SH.