collapse

Advertisement


Author Topic: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?  (Read 14062 times)

Offline jackelope

  • Administrator
  • Trade Count: (+27)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 49015
  • Location: Duvall, WA
  • Groups: jackelope
Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« on: May 19, 2017, 09:08:33 AM »
Kind of been wanting one of these for a while now and am just curious if anyone else has one. I'm thinking pretty hard about getting a Gransfors Bruk Outdoor Axe. Not sure what I'd do with it other than camping use. I like the idea of the history and quality of them more than what I'd use it for to be honest. Also was looking at Wetterlings.

https://www.gransforsbruk.com/en/product/gransfors-outdoor-axe-2/

Anyone?
:fire.:

" In today's instant gratification society, more and more pressure revolves around success and the measurement of one's prowess as a hunter by inches on a score chart or field photos produced on social media. Don't fall into the trap. Hunting is-and always will be- about the hunt, the adventure, the views, and time spent with close friends and family. " Ryan Hatfield

My posts, opinions and statements do not represent those of this forum

Offline 92xj

  • Trade Count: (+26)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: May 2009
  • Posts: 3881
  • Location: Out of Place
  • Kill 'em
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #1 on: May 19, 2017, 09:30:13 AM »
I have one, the wildlife hatchet, that I use around the house, camp and take it into the backcountry (if I am not the one with a tag and having to carry a weapon).  They are awesomely hand made tools.  I'd recommend them.  They will also cut the *censored* out of you when cutting kindling, just a big gash down the bone with no blood, crazy.
"If you have to be crazy to hunt ducks, I do not wish to be sane."

Offline Special T

  • Truth the new Hate Speech.
  • Business Sponsor
  • Trade Count: (+13)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2009
  • Posts: 24823
  • Location: Skagit Valley
  • Make it Rain!
    • Silver Arrow Bowmen
    • Silver Arrow Bowmen
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #2 on: May 19, 2017, 09:35:54 AM »
I don't own the brand  your referring to. I actually have an eastwing that I love. I think with a couple of you tube videos and some time with a file you can make most hatches pretty awesome.
Wanglerstar on you tube has a couple good videos on axes and hatches including a comparison. He really likes a huskivarna carpenter's axe/hatchet.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

In archery we have something like the way of the superior man. When the archer misses the center of the target, he turns round and seeks for the cause of his failure in himself. 

Confucius

Offline NW SURVEYOR

  • Trade Count: (+1)
  • Scout
  • ****
  • Join Date: Oct 2016
  • Posts: 448
  • Location: ENUMCLAW
  • Groups: RMEF NRA
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #3 on: May 19, 2017, 09:59:15 AM »
We do a lot of surveying for the FS which requires us to blaze the trees along the lines.
This requires a 3# head with a SHARP edge.
The axe is also used in conjunction with a good machete (Also SHARP) to clear brush and small trees.
We generally use a 16" Mill *censored* file and work the sides back quite a distance from the cutting edge.
We then touch up the edge periodically to keep it sharp.
The use of an aluminum scabbard allows us to carry them safely through the timber while not in use.
An errant swing can really lay you open, as can careless filing.

The best axe I ever used was a "Stroax" which was Swedish or Finnish.
They were $60 for the head only in 1989 at which point I bought two.
You could take down a 14" fir pretty darn quick if you knew what you were doing.
After wearing them out I tried some others with poor results.
About 10 years ago Stihl came out with a good axe and I bought two more of those.
They're pretty good.

The problem is that these work axes do not make a good camp axe as any dings really affects the cutting quality.
They are fine for camp duty, but cannot be placed back into the work truck if they have imperfections on the edges..

If anyone has a 3# Stroax, I'd entertain buying it.

Later,
Rob.


Offline jackelope

  • Administrator
  • Trade Count: (+27)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 49015
  • Location: Duvall, WA
  • Groups: jackelope
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #4 on: May 19, 2017, 11:00:34 AM »
I don't own the brand  your referring to. I actually have an eastwing that I love. I think with a couple of you tube videos and some time with a file you can make most hatches pretty awesome.
Wanglerstar on you tube has a couple good videos on axes and hatches including a comparison. He really likes a huskivarna carpenter's axe/hatchet.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk



I have an Estwing axe and a smaller hatchet. Also have a couple old hatchets from my grandfather...can't recall the brand name. As a kid, I would daydream about my grandfather letting me use them. When he died, they were one of the few things of his I absolutely had to have. Really it's more about the cool factor with this purchase. Handmade, history, craftsmanship, quality, etc.
:fire.:

" In today's instant gratification society, more and more pressure revolves around success and the measurement of one's prowess as a hunter by inches on a score chart or field photos produced on social media. Don't fall into the trap. Hunting is-and always will be- about the hunt, the adventure, the views, and time spent with close friends and family. " Ryan Hatfield

My posts, opinions and statements do not represent those of this forum

Offline Special T

  • Truth the new Hate Speech.
  • Business Sponsor
  • Trade Count: (+13)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2009
  • Posts: 24823
  • Location: Skagit Valley
  • Make it Rain!
    • Silver Arrow Bowmen
    • Silver Arrow Bowmen
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #5 on: May 19, 2017, 11:16:56 AM »
In one of the videos he talks about the differences between really high end and  more off the shelf brands like Huskivarna. A big part of the difference is the time put into shaping the metal, which is what is reflected in price.  Similar discussions about firearms have been had on here.  Some knowledge, a file, and some sandpaper can take a mediocre product a hand fit pics of excellence.

Take the 1911 for example there are many manufacturers. The main difference in price and quality is the labor for high tolerances and the had fitment and polishing that takes place.

I bet some of those old heads you have from your grandpa could be refurbished by you. You could show/teach your kids and that would be better than any purchase. 2c

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using Tapatalk

In archery we have something like the way of the superior man. When the archer misses the center of the target, he turns round and seeks for the cause of his failure in himself. 

Confucius

Offline carpsniperg2

  • Site Sponsor
  • Global Moderator
  • Trade Count: (+126)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Sep 2009
  • Posts: 31430
  • Location: Goldendale,WA
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #6 on: May 19, 2017, 11:25:00 AM »
My buddy has one think its a hults? Its a great hatchet and holds a edge very good.
Owner: SPLIT DIAMOND TACTICAL
Firearms/Transfers/Parts/Optics
2011 HW Head Competition Winner

Offline Jeeper

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Tracker
  • **
  • Join Date: Sep 2011
  • Posts: 84
  • Location: Salmon Creek, WA
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #7 on: May 20, 2017, 06:56:01 AM »
I have a couple -hunters axe and a smaller forest axe. Treasured by me! Very nice, very sharp. Also have a look at Wetterlings, nice at a lower price.

Offline 257 Wby Mag

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (-1)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Sep 2007
  • Posts: 1974
  • Location: Chehalis
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #8 on: May 20, 2017, 08:12:45 AM »
Josh , Ive also heard good things about the husquvarna...
Tod Riechert fan club.

Offline jmscon

  • Forum Sponsor
  • Trade Count: (+7)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Nov 2015
  • Posts: 1197
  • Location: Seattle
  • RMEF BHA TRCP
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #9 on: May 20, 2017, 09:52:19 AM »
Check out this company

https://www.lie-nielsen.com
Their motto is "Heirloom quality tools"

And this ax

https://www.lie-nielsen.com/product/hand-tools/wetterlings-axes-bushman-axe-?node=4066

And this hatchet

https://www.lie-nielsen.com/product/hand-tools/scout-hatchet?node=4066

The company used to sell Swedish axes but I think they are making their own now.

I've been drooling over their tools for quite a while now!
My interpretation of the rules are open to interpretation.
Once I thought I was wrong but I was mistaken.

Offline HardCorpsHuntr

  • Political & Covid-19 Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Longhunter
  • *****
  • Join Date: Nov 2007
  • Posts: 803
  • Location: Chelan County
  • Semper Fi
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #10 on: May 20, 2017, 10:53:51 AM »
I would recommend getting an axe made in USA, as there are several small hand forged axe makers that appear to be of great quality.  I have bought several old USA made axes, single and double bit, and cleaned them up and rehung them myself.  Much cheaper, fairly easy, and fun.     

https://www.hoffmanblacksmithing.com/axeordering/

I have a couple of Husqvarna axes, Swedish made, and they are solid.  I especially like the multi purpose axe.

https://www.amazon.com/Husqvarna-26-Wooden-Multi-Purpose-Axe/dp/B004WJGXAQ/ref=sr_1_sc_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1495302544&sr=8-2-spell&keywords=husquvar+axe

I have a friend who bought a Nielsen camp axe and the head became loose after an hour of use.  He was disappointed, it was fixed by Nielsen.  He's happy now. 

"Fast is fine. Accuracy is final. You need to learn to shoot slow, real fast." -Wyatt Earp

Offline HardCorpsHuntr

  • Political & Covid-19 Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Longhunter
  • *****
  • Join Date: Nov 2007
  • Posts: 803
  • Location: Chelan County
  • Semper Fi
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #11 on: May 20, 2017, 11:34:44 AM »
A few I hung.

"Fast is fine. Accuracy is final. You need to learn to shoot slow, real fast." -Wyatt Earp

Offline Netminder01

  • Trade Count: (+2)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jul 2009
  • Posts: 1161
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #12 on: May 20, 2017, 11:34:51 AM »
tag

Offline Smokepole

  • Kevin Miller
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2008
  • Posts: 2315
  • Location: Upper Skyberian
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #13 on: May 20, 2017, 11:58:25 AM »
I have an axe & hatchet collection.  I like Gransfors Bruks the best.  I have both the wildlife hatchet for my day pack & a Scandinavian Forest axe behind the seat of my truck.  They are works of art. 

You can buy Gransfors axes in Bellingham at Wes Spur.  It is fun to walk in and choose an axe that speaks to you.  They have also shipped to me, with great packaging & fast shipping.  I call and ask them to pick me out a good pc. with proper grain orientation and alignment.    http://www.wesspur.com/

You'll never be sorry you splurged.  If you go with a cheaper axe, you'll still want a Gransfors.  That'll be nagging on ya until you finally break down!   

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some wood to split.  :chuckle:

Offline jackelope

  • Administrator
  • Trade Count: (+27)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 49015
  • Location: Duvall, WA
  • Groups: jackelope
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #14 on: May 20, 2017, 12:00:49 PM »
I have an axe & hatchet collection.  I like Gransfors Bruks the best.  I have both the wildlife hatchet for my day pack & a Scandinavian Forest axe behind the seat of my truck.  They are works of art. 

You can Gransfors axes in Bellingham at Wes Spur.  It is fun to walk in and choose an axe that speaks to you.  They have also shipped to me, with great packaging & fast shipping.  I call and ask them to pick me out a good pc. with proper grain orientation and alignment. 

You'll never be sorry you splurged.  If you go with a cheaper axe, you'll still want a Gransfors.  That'll be nagging on ya until you finally break down!   

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some wood to split.  :chuckle:

Kinda what I'm talking about here. Next time I'm in Bellingham, I'll have to check that place out.
Thank you
:fire.:

" In today's instant gratification society, more and more pressure revolves around success and the measurement of one's prowess as a hunter by inches on a score chart or field photos produced on social media. Don't fall into the trap. Hunting is-and always will be- about the hunt, the adventure, the views, and time spent with close friends and family. " Ryan Hatfield

My posts, opinions and statements do not represent those of this forum

Offline Smokepole

  • Kevin Miller
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2008
  • Posts: 2315
  • Location: Upper Skyberian
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #15 on: May 20, 2017, 12:02:33 PM »
I added a link to WesSpur.  If you get one post of pic.  :tup:

Offline Smokepole

  • Kevin Miller
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2008
  • Posts: 2315
  • Location: Upper Skyberian
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #16 on: May 20, 2017, 12:23:55 PM »
My favorite axe of all time is the Gransfors Scandinavian Forest axe.  It is the holy grail of my collection, anyway.  It is about the size and shape of a hudson bay axe.  I remember the first time I hefted a Norlund axe.  I was just a kid, and chopped down quite a few trees with it.  It was addictive to swing and chop.  The Gransfors feels even better, with a little more heft to the head, and a better hollow grind that really sends chips flying.   

Offline Smokepole

  • Kevin Miller
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2008
  • Posts: 2315
  • Location: Upper Skyberian
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #17 on: May 20, 2017, 12:25:23 PM »
My forest axe was made by Tobias Thelin.  Here is he, making them in the factory.


Offline Smokepole

  • Kevin Miller
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2008
  • Posts: 2315
  • Location: Upper Skyberian
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #18 on: May 20, 2017, 12:38:24 PM »
My son and I both carry a wildlife hatchet in our packs during hunting season.  Great for building a warming fire, building a quick shelter, or chopping a brisket.  They are so sharp, you could gut a deer with one.

Sorry so many replies... you said the "A" word.   :chuckle:

Offline tlbradford

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2007
  • Posts: 3518
  • Location: Veradale
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #19 on: May 20, 2017, 08:28:36 PM »
I bought this for an all around tool and it gets a ton of use.  From driving stakes, to breaking concrete, to splitting wood.  It isn't for packing around but it is amazing around the camp, house, or back of the truck.
Dreams are forever on the mind, realization in the hands.

Offline HUNTINCOUPLE

  • Lost Somewhere on the Praire of Klickitat Co. Chasing The Elusive BENCHLEG DEERS.
  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (+1)
  • Old Salt
  • ******
  • Join Date: Jan 2009
  • Posts: 8082
  • Location: Lyle WA, 98635
  • Yep, my avatar is from my front porch. #2835
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #20 on: May 20, 2017, 09:20:17 PM »
You won't be disappointed.  :tup:
Slap some bacon on a biscut and lets go, were burrnin daylight!

Most peoples health is a decision not a condition?

Kill your television!  ICEMAN SAID TO!

Life Member of Hunting  Washington  Forum.

Time in the woods is more important than timing the moon.

Offline predatorpro

  • WA State Trappers Association
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: May 2010
  • Posts: 1718
  • Location: Wenatchee, WA
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #21 on: May 20, 2017, 10:09:06 PM »
Hard to beat a gransfors....

Offline LDennis24

  • Bear poker
  • Washington For Wildlife
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: Nov 2010
  • Posts: 3943
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #22 on: May 20, 2017, 10:53:53 PM »
I always liked some of these axes.

https://axeandadze.com/

Offline KFhunter

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Legend
  • ******
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 34514
  • Location: NE Corner
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #23 on: May 20, 2017, 11:00:39 PM »
I've been wanting a GB for a long time

Offline Bofire

  • Political & Covid-19 Topics
  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Old Salt
  • ******
  • Join Date: Oct 2007
  • Posts: 5524
  • Location: Yelm
  • Harley YAR YAR YAR!
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #24 on: May 21, 2017, 09:16:53 AM »
 :) I have been looking at them, have to lock it up to keep, kids, camp buddies, and others from trying it out. The Gransfors look really good.
Carl
When the chips are down..... the buffalo is empty!!

I do not shop at Amazon

Offline Night goat

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Longhunter
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2017
  • Posts: 630
  • Location: Anacortes
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #25 on: May 21, 2017, 06:08:26 PM »
For a budget Scandinavian axe, I've never had a single complaint about my fiskars, bought mine back in the late 90s, still a good quality axe, I've heard the steel has changed a bit since then....

The only reason hy I don't have a GB axe.... Well, an axe isn't part of my daily life, at this particular time in my life (means I don't have a woodstove or a need to split wood), but I've been wanting one for years, every bit of research I did points to GB being unmatched in quality

Definitely on the want list, and will get a GB when. My cabin gets built

Offline 257 Wby Mag

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (-1)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Sep 2007
  • Posts: 1974
  • Location: Chehalis
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #26 on: May 23, 2017, 11:37:20 AM »
Just picked it up at madsens in centralia, hand forged, Swedish quality, $80.  Damn nice tool....


Tod Riechert fan club.

Offline quadrafire

  • Past Sponsor
  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Old Salt
  • *****
  • Join Date: Sep 2009
  • Posts: 7121
  • Location: Spokane
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #27 on: May 23, 2017, 01:14:00 PM »
Bailey's has a good selection it looks like. Don't know if they are Swedish or not

http://www.baileysonline.com/Forestry-Woodcutting/Axes-Mauls/Hatchets-Hunting-Axes/?page_no=1

Offline singleshot12

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2007
  • Posts: 3445
  • Location: N.W. Washington
  • WWA,PF
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #28 on: May 23, 2017, 02:00:30 PM »
If you want quality for a dirt cheap price check out MORA
NATURE HAS A WAY

"All good things must come to an end"

SEARCHING FOR TRUTH, SEARCHING FOR PURITY, something that doesn't really exist anymore..

Offline Night goat

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Longhunter
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2017
  • Posts: 630
  • Location: Anacortes
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #29 on: May 23, 2017, 09:46:21 PM »
If you want quality for a dirt cheap price check out MORA

Mora makes axes....!?

I've had a mora before, damned fine knife, best one I've had in years, paid like 15$

Id buy a mora axe!

Offline jackelope

  • Administrator
  • Trade Count: (+27)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 49015
  • Location: Duvall, WA
  • Groups: jackelope
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #30 on: May 26, 2017, 09:36:53 AM »
Just picked it up at madsens in centralia, hand forged, Swedish quality, $80.  Damn nice tool....




Not bad, Jud. Thanks...
:fire.:

" In today's instant gratification society, more and more pressure revolves around success and the measurement of one's prowess as a hunter by inches on a score chart or field photos produced on social media. Don't fall into the trap. Hunting is-and always will be- about the hunt, the adventure, the views, and time spent with close friends and family. " Ryan Hatfield

My posts, opinions and statements do not represent those of this forum

Offline 257 Wby Mag

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (-1)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Sep 2007
  • Posts: 1974
  • Location: Chehalis
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #31 on: May 26, 2017, 10:17:19 AM »
Word has it they're made by hults bruks...
Tod Riechert fan club.

Offline Alchase

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Explorer
  • ******
  • Join Date: Apr 2007
  • Posts: 19873
  • Location: Tinker AFB, OK
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #32 on: May 26, 2017, 07:42:05 PM »
Could someone explain the fascination or advantages of Swedish Axes?

Two years ago, I finally had to buy a new ax when I broke my piece of crap Fred Meyer special, and had to run into Twisp to pick up a new Fiskars splitting axe a couple years ago.
Dang thing is danger sharp. To be honest, I only chop wood in Deer camp or the occasional fire in the back yard.
Only 2 defining forces sacrificed themselves for you:
The American Soldier and Jesus Christ. One died for your freedom, the other for your soul.

My rock,
He trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle.
Psalm 144.1

Offline Bullkllr

  • Political & Covid-19 Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2007
  • Posts: 4753
  • Location: Graham
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #33 on: May 26, 2017, 08:31:12 PM »
Could someone explain the fascination or advantages of Swedish Axes?

Two years ago, I finally had to buy a new ax when I broke my piece of crap Fred Meyer special, and had to run into Twisp to pick up a new Fiskars splitting axe a couple years ago.
Dang thing is danger sharp. To be honest, I only chop wood in Deer camp or the occasional fire in the back yard.

Steel quality, holding an edge. Probably also some hype, but they do take their wood cutting pretty seriously over there.

Fiskars is made in Finland, no?

In my experience I can get a cheap axe sharp. Keeping it sharp is another story. The head just gradually disappears.
"Making good people helpless will not make bad people harmless"

Offline Alchase

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Explorer
  • ******
  • Join Date: Apr 2007
  • Posts: 19873
  • Location: Tinker AFB, OK
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #34 on: May 26, 2017, 08:36:39 PM »
Thanks for the info.
Only 2 defining forces sacrificed themselves for you:
The American Soldier and Jesus Christ. One died for your freedom, the other for your soul.

My rock,
He trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle.
Psalm 144.1

Offline Smokepole

  • Kevin Miller
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Sourdough
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2008
  • Posts: 2315
  • Location: Upper Skyberian
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #35 on: May 26, 2017, 09:36:45 PM »
Another difference is the shaping of the head for the type of work to be done.  My Gransfors axes are hollow ground.  They are good for splitting, and don't get stuck in a round of wood too often.  They chop deeply and chips really fly.  Hardware store axes are seldom shaped properly for splitting or chopping.  They look like an axe from a distance, until you start looking at them close.  I like good, traditional tools of all kinds, including brooms.  I like hickory wood, because it feels better in the hands than plastic or rubber.  Hickory and steel looks cool in my woodshed.   :)

Offline singleshot12

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2007
  • Posts: 3445
  • Location: N.W. Washington
  • WWA,PF
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #36 on: May 27, 2017, 11:30:36 AM »
Husqvarna quality is ok but now you pay twice as much just for the name :twocents:
NATURE HAS A WAY

"All good things must come to an end"

SEARCHING FOR TRUTH, SEARCHING FOR PURITY, something that doesn't really exist anymore..

Offline Machias

  • Trapper
  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Explorer
  • ******
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 18690
  • Location: Worley, ID
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #37 on: May 29, 2017, 08:38:26 AM »
My favorite axe of all time is the Gransfors Scandinavian Forest axe.  It is the holy grail of my collection, anyway.  It is about the size and shape of a hudson bay axe.  I remember the first time I hefted a Norlund axe.  I was just a kid, and chopped down quite a few trees with it.  It was addictive to swing and chop.  The Gransfors feels even better, with a little more heft to the head, and a better hollow grind that really sends chips flying.   

That's the one I have, LOVE IT!!!!
Fred Moyer

When it's Grim, be the GRIM REAPER!

Offline Machias

  • Trapper
  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Explorer
  • ******
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 18690
  • Location: Worley, ID
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #38 on: May 29, 2017, 08:40:33 AM »
My forest axe was made by Tobias Thelin.  Here is he, making them in the factory.


Same guy who made my axe!!
Fred Moyer

When it's Grim, be the GRIM REAPER!

Offline Alchase

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Explorer
  • ******
  • Join Date: Apr 2007
  • Posts: 19873
  • Location: Tinker AFB, OK
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #39 on: May 29, 2017, 04:32:02 PM »
That was cool!
Only 2 defining forces sacrificed themselves for you:
The American Soldier and Jesus Christ. One died for your freedom, the other for your soul.

My rock,
He trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle.
Psalm 144.1

Offline Night goat

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Longhunter
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jan 2017
  • Posts: 630
  • Location: Anacortes
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #40 on: July 02, 2017, 11:36:37 PM »
Could someone explain the fascination or advantages of Swedish Axes?

Two years ago, I finally had to buy a new ax when I broke my piece of crap Fred Meyer special, and had to run into Twisp to pick up a new Fiskars splitting axe a couple years ago.
Dang thing is danger sharp. To be honest, I only chop wood in Deer camp or the occasional fire in the back yard.

Steel quality, holding an edge. Probably also some hype, but they do take their wood cutting pretty seriously over there.

Fiskars is made in Finland, no?

In my experience I can get a cheap axe sharp. Keeping it sharp is another story. The head just gradually disappears.

Kyllä fiskars on suomalaista

means yes fiskars is Finnish

the reason why Scandinavian steel is so prized is because of unmatched ore quality with a very high carbon content, Scandinavian and German ore is some of the highest quality and purest ore in the world, and have a very long lineage of craftsmanship that goes back over a thousand years, part of why the Vikings took over europe and most of the known world was because of the quality of thiet steel, that and they were completley bathsit and extremely savy businessmen

Offline KFhunter

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Legend
  • ******
  • Join Date: Jan 2011
  • Posts: 34514
  • Location: NE Corner
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #41 on: July 03, 2017, 08:36:11 AM »
I just bought an Eastwing campers axe.




I took my work sharp to it and made a new convex edge and it's a chopping fool now.  I had it sharp enough to gut a deer, but not hair popping sharp, I took it to a chunk of larch that's been dry for 5 years and hard as a brick.  Thought to see if I could roll the edge but it held, and it stayed sharp.  I got it to pop small limbs off logs and emergency tree across the road truck axe. 

Pretty happy with it, but you must put your own edge on it or it's not worth packing.  It's not a GB, but the handle will never fall off and it does hold and edge pretty good.  If you don't remove or replace the axe scabbard the right way it'll lay your hand wide open, so caution there.  I grab the top edge of the scabbard and slide it on with due care so it won't bite me. 

Offline jackelope

  • Administrator
  • Trade Count: (+27)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 49015
  • Location: Duvall, WA
  • Groups: jackelope
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #42 on: November 24, 2017, 12:08:31 PM »
Well I'm happy to report I finally pulled the trigger on an axe. Went with the Hults Bruk Akka.  It showed up this morning. I haven't taken it out of the box yet but I'm pretty excited.

This one:
http://hultsbruk1697.se/products/the-akka/
:fire.:

" In today's instant gratification society, more and more pressure revolves around success and the measurement of one's prowess as a hunter by inches on a score chart or field photos produced on social media. Don't fall into the trap. Hunting is-and always will be- about the hunt, the adventure, the views, and time spent with close friends and family. " Ryan Hatfield

My posts, opinions and statements do not represent those of this forum

Offline tlbradford

  • Trade Count: (0)
  • Frontiersman
  • *****
  • Join Date: Aug 2007
  • Posts: 3518
  • Location: Veradale
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #43 on: November 24, 2017, 01:31:56 PM »
Well I'm happy to report I finally pulled the trigger on an axe. Went with the Hults Bruk Akka.  It showed up this morning. I haven't taken it out of the box yet but I'm pretty excited.

This one:
http://hultsbruk1697.se/products/the-akka/

Look at you Mr. Fancypants!   :chuckle: You and your kids should enjoy that.  Plus, at that price, you are certain to never accidentally leave it stuck in a stump while you drive home from camp.
Dreams are forever on the mind, realization in the hands.

Offline jackelope

  • Administrator
  • Trade Count: (+27)
  • Legend
  • *****
  • Join Date: Mar 2007
  • Posts: 49015
  • Location: Duvall, WA
  • Groups: jackelope
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #44 on: November 24, 2017, 01:56:33 PM »
Someone asked for pics.







Sorry for the cheesy inside the jacket picture. It was either that or in the hay all over the back of my Jeep.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
:fire.:

" In today's instant gratification society, more and more pressure revolves around success and the measurement of one's prowess as a hunter by inches on a score chart or field photos produced on social media. Don't fall into the trap. Hunting is-and always will be- about the hunt, the adventure, the views, and time spent with close friends and family. " Ryan Hatfield

My posts, opinions and statements do not represent those of this forum

Offline Boss .300 winmag

  • FLY NAVAL AVIATION
  • Washington For Wildlife
  • Trade Count: (+22)
  • Explorer
  • ******
  • Join Date: Oct 2010
  • Posts: 17764
  • Location: Skagit Valley
  • How do you measure trying, you do, or you don’t.
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #45 on: November 24, 2017, 04:18:55 PM »
I just bought an Eastwing campers axe.




I took my work sharp to it and made a new convex edge and it's a chopping fool now.  I had it sharp enough to gut a deer, but not hair popping sharp, I took it to a chunk of larch that's been dry for 5 years and hard as a brick.  Thought to see if I could roll the edge but it held, and it stayed sharp.  I got it to pop small limbs off logs and emergency tree across the road truck axe. 

Pretty happy with it, but you must put your own edge on it or it's not worth packing.  It's not a GB, but the handle will never fall off and it does hold and edge pretty good.  If you don't remove or replace the axe scabbard the right way it'll lay your hand wide open, so caution there.  I grab the top edge of the scabbard and slide it on with due care so it won't bite me.

Got one next to the wood stove, works great. :tup:
"Just because I like granola, and I have stretched my arms around a few trees, doesn't mean I'm a tree hugger!
Hi I'm 8156, our leader is Bearpaw.
YOU CANNOT REASON WITH A TIGER WHEN YOUR HEAD IS IN ITS MOUTH! Winston Churchill

Keep Calm And Duc/Ski Doo On!

Offline quadrafire

  • Past Sponsor
  • Trade Count: (+5)
  • Old Salt
  • *****
  • Join Date: Sep 2009
  • Posts: 7121
  • Location: Spokane
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #46 on: November 24, 2017, 05:31:13 PM »
Someone asked for pics.







Sorry for the cheesy inside the jacket picture. It was either that or in the hay all over the back of my Jeep.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Hope That's not for rabbit processing :yike:
I like it and would love to have one

Offline T-Dozzer

  • Non-Hunting Topics
  • Trade Count: (+3)
  • Longhunter
  • *****
  • Join Date: Jul 2013
  • Posts: 868
  • Location: East and West
Re: Quality swedish axes/hatchets?
« Reply #47 on: November 27, 2017, 06:43:23 PM »
Check out the yearly packwood fleamarket. So many axes/hatchet, your head will spin.  There is also a shop that refurbs used ones down in Tacoma called Vulcan something, but doing it your self is simple enough. 
You just bought the  Ferrari though.
« Last Edit: November 27, 2017, 06:53:10 PM by T-Dozzer »

 


* Advertisement

SimplePortal 2.3.7 © 2008-2024, SimplePortal