This is how the old the axe looked like when I found it. Don’t know the brand of this hatchet but I’m pretty sure its not a very fancy axe.

This is how it looks like when finished. I probably spent about 10 hours total working on it and this is my first custom axe built so I’m just a amateur which means anyone can do this with just some basic tools at their disposal.

Ok, so first I did some research online and looked at different viking axes and when I had enought of ideas on how I wanted it I did some sketches on a piece of paper until I was happy with my design. Then I just transfered it to the old axe and started to cut. Use a angle grinder to cut the steel, just make sure you cool the axe often in water so it dosen’t get to hot.

When all the cutting is done its time to smooth everything out. I used a sanding flap disc. Make sure to cool the axe head often when grinding as well as it gets hot really fast.

After a lot of cutting and grinding I wanted to make the axe head look nice and shiny. I first started with a scotch brite connected to a standard drill. When finished with the drill I used an air sander to get rid of any deeper scratches on the head.

Next step I did was sanding it by hand. I started with 80 grit and worked all the way down to 400.

When I was done with the sanding I realised that I needed to do some more cutting.

I wanted to do some etching as well on the axe as it looks really nice if you know how to do it (which I don’t). Anyway I used a 12v car charger and vinegar mixed with salt. I have no idea if thats the best method or not, I just found a guy doing it on youtube with nice result.  And I put nail polish on the areas I didn’t want to etch.

It’s harder then it looks to get a nice pattern when you do it by hand with nail polish. Next axe I will use some kind of stencil instead. If you have any tips for my next axe please leave a comment.

After electric etching the axe head it was time to create a handle. I decided to use the old handle because that was all I had at my disposal. To make it look more like a viking axe I needed to make the handle a bit rounder. I marked out how I wanted it and then I used a jig saw to make the design I wanted. Then lots of sanding again. Same here, started with 80 grit all the way up to 400.

Also I wanted to make the axe handle darker so I used something called wood stain.

Last step is to attach the axe head to the handle.

Thats it. Now its time to sharpen the axe and see what its made of:) Hope you liked it and if you have any questions just leave a comment below.

Taking care of your axe involves three things. The first is that you need to ensure that your axe does not get damaged because of contact with the elements. Secondly, you need to ensure that your axe remains clean at all times. Thirdly, you need to ensure that your axe is properly sharpened and ready to use.

If your axe has a wooden handle then you need to take care of both the axe head as well as the handle. To protect both these parts you need to use some oil and coat both parts with it. Different axe owners have their own preferences regarding what the best oil or wax is.

You can either use linseed oil (boiled) to take care of the handle or you can use gun oil on the axe’s head. Some people just use whatever oil they have in their homes and use it to take care of their axes.

The good news is that it does not take much to protect the head of your axe. Just make sure that the head does not come into contact with moisture, as a wet head will easily rust. To protect the head you should apply a light coat of Vaseline and then after applying the Vaseline you can wipe it off. Vaseline easily enters the pores and has excellent staying power.

To take care of the handle you will need to address two important aspects. The first is that you should keep the handle dry at all times and not allow it to get wet. A wet handle will rot away easily and hence you must ensure that it stays dry at all times. However, do not allow the handle to dry out as that will cause the handle to shrink and that in turn will pry the head loose.

Most wooden handles are covered with lacquer or even with some paint. This helps to protect the handle. However, if you want to take care of your handle you can always also apply some olive oil on it. Allow the oil to be absorbed into the wood. After that apply some bees was on the handle. This will coat the handle and protect it.

To clean your axe you will need to ensure that you do not use water or soap as both are not good for the axe. Simply apply some Vaseline on the axe and then wipe it off with a cloth or towel. This helps to get rid of the dirt.

If you want to sharpen your axe then you will need to use some tools including a sharpening stone and a suitable file. Use the file and start filing at one edge and apply as little pressure as possible. After the edge has been filed you can then use a sharpening stone and move it along the edge in round motions. Repeat this a few times and alternate between the two sides.

There are other more unique ways of taking care of and sharpening your axe but this simple method has proved to be very useful. If you take good care of your axe it will function for a long time.

There are many kinds of axes out there, from hand hatchets for the smallest jobs to long-handled monsters that are capable of felling large trees with a couple of swipes.That being said, all axes are not created equally, and people who are looking for the most bang for their bucks would be wise to go with quality manufacturers. That is where we come into the picture.

This article will take a closer look at some of the most professionally produced axes that are available on the market today. By the end, the reader will be much better educated about some of the top-rated options out there, and will therefore be better armed when deciding which ones to purchase in the future. On to the reviews!

GRANSFORS BRUKS

Located in the Swedish village of Gransfors is the forge known as Gransfors Bruks. For over a century, this venerable company has created a business that was founded on the expertise and skill of individual craftsmen, with a constant focus on environmental responsibility and quality. With only 30 employees working in production and sales, Gransfors Bruks still boasts customers in at least 30 nations around the world.

No axes are created equally, and the quality of the finished product depends on the skill and experience of the Craftsman that creates it. Each one of these axes is signed with the initials of the smith that created it, as a guarantee of absolute quality.

All of the axes that are made by Granfors Bruks is designed to do a specific job. These axes are divided into five basic categories. These categories include: Ancient axes, Double bit axes, Forest axes, Splitting axes, Log building axes, and Carpentry tools.

KERSHAW

The Kershaw company was brought to life in 1974 with the core mission of manufacturing and designing axes and blades that anyone would be proud to call their own. Practically speaking, this means that every axe produced by Kershaw is of the highest quality.

The experts at Kershaw always use the highest quality materials as well as the most dedicated craftsmanship. Cutting-edge manufacturing techniques and very tight tolerances and standards mean that Kershaw axes and blades are known the world unmatched durability.

Many of the technologies and techniques used in the knife industry were pioneered at Kershaw. This company introduced interchangeable blades, as well as composite blade technology which fuses two different metals into the same product. Customers can be certain that Kershaw will keep on innovating and bringing the newest and best technology to the market for the foreseeable future.

ESTWING

The Estwing family has since 1923 taken great pride in manufacturing and producing some of the world’s best-known and most durable striking tools. With a product line that includes claw hammers, specialty tools, and world class axes, Estwing products are manufactured to the highest possible ideals and standards and truly offer the greatest possible value to tradesmen and craftsmen.

Constantly innovating, in the year 2001 Estwing brought to market a new shock reduction grip that gives their customers the safest available grip for reducing impact and vibrations. In addition, this grip offers the highest quality in terms of durability and comfort. This technology is so promising that all of Estwings new tools are being manufactured with this nylon vinyl grip material.

Located in the northern Illinois city called Rockford, Estwing is proud to be an all American manufacturer, and their quality axes are sold in leading hardware stores in the United States and indeed around the world.

FISKARS

The Fiskars started from humble beginnings in the year 1649 when a man named Peter Thorwoste was provided with a charter to create a blast furnace and forging operation in a small Finnish village known as Fiskars.

In the year 1783, the company switched from ironworks to copper and at the same time with taken over by the Bjorkman family. The company continued making items created from copper taken from the nearby mine until the year 1832.

At this time, Fiskars founded the countries’ inaugural cutlery mill and increased it’s production range to include Forks, scissors, and world famous axes. In the year 1837, Fiskars founded the first machine workshop in Finland and begin to manufacture some of the first steam engines in the world.

Fiskars’ dedication to innovation and excellence continues to this day, and their award winning line of world class axes and hatchets continue to provide unmatched utility for craftsmen and workmen the world over.

GERBER

In 1939 Joseph Gerber founded a young knife company which was then known as Gerber legendary blades. It started out as a business specializing in making small batches of handmade cutlery, and 30 years short years later in 1960 it had become one of the most appreciated and trusted and names in the blade and knife industry .

In the 70 years since it came into being, the Gerber company is still growing. It is guided by principles like responsibility and hard work, and continues to be dedicated to making axes and tools that bring together the highest quality materials and the most cutting-edge designs that truly stand up to a lifetime of use and abuse.

Gerber continues to bring multi tools, axes, hand saws, and more to the table – with the same high standard of quality and craftsmanship that they have always have.

HUSQVARNA

The Husqvarna company with founded in Sweden in the year 1689. The company began by producing what where some of the finest muskets in the world at the time, and since then has continued laying the foundation that has helped to develop some of the world’s finest products in areas such as outdoor products, weapons, and hunting gear.

In order to remain as environmentally responsible as possible, the experts at Husqvarna have developed a holistic approach to manufacturing that covers the entire operation from production methods, packaging, and noise to energy consumption and exhaust emissions.

In addition to this they always use environmentally compatible materials in their production process and are constantly looking for new ways to be even environmentally compatible and friendly than before.

Husqvarna is proud to provide the full range of hatchets and axes for use in just about any situation or environment. their devotion to quality manufacturing and engineering means that all of their customers can expect and can continue to expect some of the best tools that money can buy.

WETTERLINGS

In the year 1880 , a man named Sven Wetterling begin manufacturing bark shovels, broad access, and axes in a place called Dalsland in Sweden. By 1889, Wetterlings had become a family business the three blacksmiths of the time were kept constantly busy, creating from 20 to 30 of their signature axes each and every day.

In the year 1915 Otto Wetterling died and the surviving brother contacted Magnus Lilieblad from Stockholm and offered to sell him the Forge. Once the sale has taken place the the factory was updated with modern equipment and the modern-day Wetterling forge was founded. Some of the original machinery was still in use right to our present day with the original forging press hammer still cranking out axes until 2014.

In the year 2007 Gabriel Branby purchased the forge and kept the old traditions going. Today, Wetterlings still employes 9 skilled craftsmen whose signature axes provide an ongoing statement about the incredible quality, skill, and craftmanship that go into every one of their products.

SOG

The SOG, or Special Operations Group, was originally a highly classified United States special operations unit that carried a unique kind of combat knife into battle. A generation later, that same SOG Bowie knife proved to be the inspiration that motivated a young designer named Spencer Frazer to found the SOG specialty knife company.

Now in 2015, SOG is still going strong. The company still produces a full cohort of world class knives, but is now applying the same core competencies that made them a world leader in that niche to their production of high quality hatchets and axes. Sportsmen and craftsmen the world over are happy to enjoy the same high level of quality that the brand is and will continue to be known for.

SCHRADE

The Imperial Schrade Corporation was formally an American knife manufacturer that was actually a combination of 5 earlier companies including the Imperial Knife Company and the Schrade Cutlery Company.

Imperial knife began as the Empire Knife Company in Winsted Connecticut in 1916.The Mirando brothers and their friend Dominic Fasano established the company after which it was sold to Albert Baer in 1941, who then merged it with Imperial Knife and called the resulting business the Imperial knife Company

This Schrade cutlery company was formed in 1882 by the George Schrade who patented the first switchblade design in the same year. Schrade would spend many years developing the company before a relative named Louis Schrade with eventually sold the business to the Imperial Knife Company

Even though the name and the ownership of the company has changed several times over the years, the core business is still well known for its high levels of craftsmanship and quality. These attributes can still be seen today in its line of well-made and capable axes and hatchets.

MORAKNIV

Morakniv has been making knives and axes in the town of Ostnor for well over a hundred years. These tools were made in every home at one time and the skills were passed down from father to son from generation to generation. In our modern day, these core competencies can all be found in one building and this can be evidenced by the outstanding products that continue to be produced by this venerable organization.

At Morakniv, they do an amazing job of melding traditional craftsmans’ techniques with modern tools. This fusion has resulted in products of the highest quality, including their comprehensive line of hatchets and axes.

HULTAFORS

Hultafors was born in the year 1883 when engineer Carl Kollen invented a measuring device that heralded Sweden’s entry into the metric system. Up until the 1970s, the products made by Hultafors were mostly measuring tools made from wood.

That said, by the early 1980s the company had grown and developed into a force on the world stage. Along the way, Hultafors’ range of products has expanded to include sledge hammers, pry bars, hammers, and even an axes.

This expansion and dedication to quality and craftsmanship continue well into the 21st century, and individuals who purchase Hultafors axes and other fine products know that the tools they are using are indeed second to none.

CRKT

Columbia River knife and tool or CRKT is a company that was founded by Rod Bremer in 1994 in Oregon. CRKT offers customers a large and comprehensive the line of work, professional, and sport knives and tools that are driven by purpose.

CRKT is known for custom designs and innovative thinking that delivers quality products for daily use at affordable prices. Columbia River knife and tool axes are created using the most cutting-edge equipment and production systems available today.

Prospective customers will be pleased to know that CRKT’s historic core values of innovation, quality, and value, remain unchanged and are fully reflected in their award winning products.

COLD STEEL

Cold Steel Inc. was brought to life in the year 1980, and since that time has been dedicated to being one of the leaders in making some of the sharpest and strongest knives anywhere on the planet. Over the last 30 years, cold steel has introduced many innovations that have helped to define and move forward the entire knife and axe making industry.

Accomplishments such as Kraton handles and tanto point blade styles have gone from fringe offerings to mainstream features that are known to be marks of sophistication and quality.

Cold steel goes beyond just knife making, and is proud to introduce its comprehensive line of axes and hatchets that are sure to match anything else on the market.

GARDENA

Gardena was founded in 1961 in Ulm, Germany, and over that time has developed from a relatively small trading business for garden tools into a globe-girdling manufacturer of products and systems for garden care.

Throughout the years, Gardena has been responsible for many innovations including quick change click accessories, cordless lawn edging equipment, and a wide range powerful cutting and pruning tools. Gardena does not stop there, but also has produced competitive line of hatchets and axes that are suitable for any job under the Sun.

HELKO

The original Helko business was started by an early member of the Helsper family in the year 1844 in Cronenberg. This business, which was known as the Helsper Tool Factory earned a reputation all through Europe as a creator of wood working tools of the highest quality.

In the decades since this time, this organization has constantly continued to improve the scope and quality of its products. Because of this ongoing effort, Helko axes are have gained worldwide recognition as some of the finest tools available for working with wood.

An axe is a common tool that is used for chopping or splitting tree limbs and logs. There are many sizes and types of axes, and all are used differently. A range axe or a forest axe is the mostly used axe. It is used to chop large pieces of wood. Another type of axe that have become more and more popular lately is tactical axes.

Other popular types of axes is a hatchet or a hand axe. It is suitable for cutting small pieces of firewood such as dead branches and sticks. You can use one hand when chopping wood with a hatchet. They are great for backpacking and survival because of their small size.

You can buy an axe at any home improvement store, online or at a camping store. However, you need to learn how to use an axe before purchasing one. This is because the simple task of chopping wood can become deadly if you do not know how to use an axe.

Important information on how to use an axe

First and foremost, you should always keep the axe in a case when not in use. When you cover the axe, you protect the blade and any person who can be injured by the sharp axe blade. And before using the axe, always inspect the wood handle for any scratches or cracks.

You should also make sure the axe blade is properly attached to the haft and it does not shake at the end of the haft. If the axe blade is not properly attached to the haft, it is likely for it to fly off while you are chopping wood.

To ensure maximum protection, it is very important to have right protective clothing such as safety glasses and safety boots before you start using an axe. This is because some wood particles can fly in any direction and harm your eyes or legs.

Even a very small piece of wood coming in contact with your eyes or a piece of wood falling on your leg while chopping can cause a big injury. To avoid any injury wear protective glasses and safety boots when using an axe.

Another important thing is to have a firm and constant surface when chopping wood. You are advised never to use an axe to chop a log that is leaning against an irregular surface. This is because while you are chopping a log, the log can fall on one side but the axe continues due to the force you have applied and possibly meet your foot.

And if it does not meet your leg, it may continue and fall on a rock which can absolutely dull your axe blade. This means you should always maintain a firm chopping surface. The surface should also be clean and free of any debris. After you are done chopping the wood, all the chopped pieces should be arranged together far from the chopping area.

It is also very important that the wood or log you are cutting does not contain materials such as nails or metal in it. If there are foreign objects embedded into the log, they can toss in the air while you are chopping and harm you or another person in the process. The common rule is that any log or wood that has metal objects such nails in it, throw it away. It is not worth the trouble.

Your cutting position is also very important. When chopping wood using an axe, especially the forest axe, you are recommended to use both of your hands. This is to help you sustain control of the axe because some axes are somehow heavy.

You should also ensure both your legs are firmly planted on the ground, and some inches apart to make you cannot fall in case of unexpected. You are supposed to stand in front of the log, and it should be directly center of your sight.

Your balance is very important since it make sure you delivery the most power with every stroke. You also need to be watchful and prepared for any situation that may arise while chopping the wood.

Always clean, polish and sharpen the axe before using it because a dull axe is not only ineffective, it is also dangerous.

After making all the important preparations, you are now ready to chop the wood using an axe.

1. Grab the axe by placing one hand 1 to 2 inches just above the end of your axe handle, and the other hand around 25% down.

2. Now, lift the axe using the both hands. Your aim is to hit the log directly in the center because if you hit the log to the front or on the side, it can be unsafe and very risky.

3. Make sure you put all your strength behind the axe by swinging it.

4. Now hit the target as hard as you can. Always keep the eyes on the target area as you swing.

5. If the first hit does not break the log into half, tap your axe that is now rooted in the log. Repeat by trying to hit the same point again until it splits the log into two pieces. You will continue to chop the pieces until you reach your desired size.

Important tips when using an axe

1. Always carry the axe at your side by holding the flat back of the axe blade in your hand. Some people have a habit of carrying an axe over their shoulders, it is risky and unsafe because it can harm your shoulder or fall on you.

2. Always wrap the axe when you are not using it, and when moving from one place to another.

3. Remember to wear protective clothing.

4. Always keep the axe sharp. Do not use a dull axe because using a dull axe can bounce back to when chopping.

Proper sharpening and maintenance is essential to upholding the life and value of your axe. Ensuring your axe is always properly sharpened and cared for will help you preserve the quality of your axe.

Different sharpening techniques can be used, depending on the type of axe, its intended purpose, and the dullness of your particular blade.

It is important to remember to identify and follow the bevel of your axe in order to retain the original shape of the blade. Maintain sturdy and continual pressure on the sharpening tool while sliding it back and forth against the blade and move at the proper angle to ensure maximum sharpness and efficiency.

If your blade is rusted or requires polishing

If your blade is heavily rusted or requires polishing, it is recommended that this be done prior to sharpening the blade. While this step is not entirely essential, it will help to guarantee maximum effectiveness as well as restore the aesthetic quality of the blade. You should repeat this process every so often so your axe will always look polished and pristine.

To eliminate rust, begin with a rust eraser or steel wool. To polish, sandpaper can be used, and it is ideal to have multiple options varying from coarse to fine grit. Starting with the coarsest sandpaper, firmly rub the paper against the blade.

Be sure to go in one direction so that it creates an even and smooth surface. Repeat the process with sandpaper of finer grit. If there is still rust on the blade, go over the areas again with even finer grit sandpaper. Once all the rust is removed, polish the blade with a metal polishing paste and rag.

If your blade requires heavy sharpening

For blades that are particularly dull or have nicks or grooves that need to be heavily sharpened and smoothed out, it is best to use a flat, fine-toothed file. An emery wheel may also be used. It is extremely important to let the blade cool often so as to not stress or weaken the steel. Too much heat can cause steel to become fragile or tempered.

Maintain a slight amount of pressure on the blade and steadily move it from back and forth against the sharpening tool. It is essential that the pressure is smoothly distributed so to ensure even results. If the blade of your axe is curved, be sure follow the natural shape of the bevel. Alternately, if your blade is straight, the entire bevel should be securely pressed against the file or wheel. Repeat this process on the other side of the blade.

 
If your blade requires minor sharpening

If the blade of your axe only requires minor sharpening, or if you have already successfully smoothed out nicks and dull edges, switch to a whetstone or sharpening tool with a smooth and coarse side. Be sure to lubricate your whetstone. Water should be used with clay, sandstone, or similar sharpeners, whereas oil should be used oil for oil-based whetstones. An axe grinder may be an easier alternative if available.

Secure your axe in a manner that will allow you to maintain a safe and secure grip on your stone. If using a grinder, use your body weight to create natural pressure against the axe. If using a stone, begin with the coarse side against your blade.

Beginning at the end, use strong, steady strokes while moving back and forth in small, circular motions. Be sure to maintain the natural shape of the edge. Repeat this process on both sides of the axe until they are evenly and smoothly sharpened.

If executed properly, an overhang or burr will accumulate on the edge. This is created when the steel strips away at the edge during the tapering process, producing a thinner and thus sharper edge. The burr or overhang is minimal but can be felt with your finger and must be correctly removed.

Removing the feathered, jagged edge (or burr)

To remove the burr that builds up on the edge, you will need the smoother side of your whetstone. Properly lubricate your whetstone. Use water for clay or sandstone sharpeners, and use oil for oil based whetstones.

Rotate the stone in a circular motion against the edge of the blade while slowly moving from end to end. Distribute an even amount of pressure throughout the entire process so as to not create an uneven or irregular surface. Do this to both sides of the blade, switching back and forth periodically to keep the blade even. Be aware of buildup on the whetstone and be aware it should be wiped down often so the whetstone or blade does not become damaged.

 
Honing the edge using a leather or similar strap

This step is completely optional but for the most refined and dedicated axe owners who wish to have an axe that is sharp, strong, and handsome, it is highly recommend. Honing your blade with a leather strap will give your axe a finer, keener and more polished appearance following sharpening. This will also give the sharpened edge of the blade an ultra-smooth look, while also making sure that no burrs remain. The end result is a blade with a sheen and sharp appearance.

Use a relaxed but sturdy grip on your axe, so you can lightly stroke its blade against the leather. Your motions should always be going against the fine edge of the blade. Move the axe back and forth towards you with the blade against the leather. Make sure to move with the bevel and shape of the axe to evenly hone the edge. Flip the axe over and repeat the process on the other side, still moving back and forth against the sharpened edge of the blade.

A protective coating can be applied to the blade now. Otherwise, you are finished and your blade should be in pristine condition. Always be sure you are using the correct tools to maintain safety and effectiveness.