What Does A Hatchet Man Tattoo Mean

A Hatchet Man tattoo is a type of gang-related tattoo that is typically seen on those affiliated with the Crips, an African American street gang originating in Los Angeles. The tattoo usually consists of a cartoonish skeleton, usually wearing a floppy hat, holding a double-headed hatchet. The symbol is used to display gang membership or affiliation and to instill fear among non-members. The teeth of the skeleton may be replaced or filled with images of weapons, most commonly a knife or hatchet. The symbol is sometimes referred to as the “C RIP” tattoo, as it is seen to represent the gang’s signature letter combination. This type of tattoo also carries other connotations, symbolizing fear and violence as well as loyalty and commitment.