With weapons like axes, which don't often weigh all that more than swords of equal size--it's all about where that weight is distributed. When you swing an axe or club you're committed to the swing, as it takes allot more strength to stop halfway when compared to a sword. It's the old stopping power versus utility argument that persists into modern firearms.

Irregardless I'd rather shoot at something ugly than let it get close enough to take a bite--even then I'd prefer something long and sharp (preferable a spear) between me and it than a weapon I'd have to swing.