Which part of a pick axe is used to break ordinary glass?

The flat side of the axe head is effective for breaking ordinary glass because it provides a wider impact surface. When you strike glass with the flat side, the force is distributed over a larger area, increasing the chances of creating enough stress to fracture the glass. This method relies on the principle that glass is more prone to breaking when subjected to a broad, focused impact rather than a narrow, sharp point, which could potentially cause the glass to crack without shattering it.

The pointed end of the axe head is better suited for piercing materials rather than breaking glass. The handle does not play a direct role in breaking glass, as it is primarily used for grip and leverage. Similarly, the weight of the axe alone does not determine the effectiveness of breaking glass; rather, it is the way the force is applied with the tool that matters. Using the flat side effectively capitalizes on the mechanical properties of glass, making it the preferred choice for this purpose.