How to Buy the Right Axe for You

Your Guide to buying the best Axes

Overview

An axe is a tool used for cutting, splitting, chopping, and shaping wood. It is an essential tool for anyone working with wood, whether it’s for carpentry, construction, or even outdoor activities. This guide will provide information on what types of axes are available, what features are important to consider, and tips for choosing the perfect axe for your needs. Armed with this information, you’ll be able to make a well-informed decision when it comes to buying an axe.

Key features

  1. Purpose of the Axe – What will you be using the axe for? Will it be used for chopping wood, splitting logs, or both? Make sure to consider what type of axe is best suited for your task.
  2. Construction Materials – Axes are typically made from either steel or forged iron. Steel is generally more durable, but it is also heavier. Forged iron is lighter and easier to carry, but it is less durable than steel.
  3. Handle Length and Weight – The length and weight of the handle should be considered. A longer handle will provide more leverage, while a shorter handle may be easier to carry. The weight of the handle should also be considered since a heavier handle may cause fatigue after extended use.
  4. Blade Size and Shape – The size and shape of the blade should be considered based on the type of work you will be doing with the axe. A larger blade will provide more power and leverage, but it may also be more difficult to control. A smaller blade may be easier to control, but it will not be as powerful.
  5. Additional Features – Consider any additional features that may be useful, such as a rubberized handle for better grip or a non-slip blade for better accuracy.

See the most popular Axes on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Versatile: Axes are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks such as chopping wood, digging up soil, and even splitting logs.
  • Durability: Axes are highly durable due to their construction from sturdy materials such as steel and fiberglass.
  • Ergonomic Design: Axes feature ergonomic designs, which makes them easier and more comfortable to use.
  • Safety: Axes come with safety features, such as anti-slip grips and sheaths, which help protect you from accidental cuts or injuries.
  • Cost-Effective: Axes are cost-effective tools that provide great value for your money.

Cons

  • Price: Axes can be expensive, depending on the type of axe, material used, and manufacturer.
  • Weight: Axes can be quite heavy, making them difficult to carry or work with for long periods of time.
  • Maintenance: Axes require regular maintenance, such as sharpening and oiling, in order for them to work correctly.
  • Safety: Axes can be dangerous if not used properly, and can cause serious injury if handled incorrectly.
  • Availability: Axes may be difficult to find in some areas, especially if one is searching for a specific type of axe.

Best alternatives

  1. Mauls - A maul is a type of long-handled hammer with a heavy head, similar to a sledgehammer.
  2. Hatchets - A hatchet is a type of axe with a short handle and a head featuring a flat hammer side and an axe side.
  3. Splitting Wedges - Splitting wedges are pieces of metal with a chiseled edge that are driven into the ends of logs in order to split them.
  4. Felling Axes - Felling axes are specialized axes designed for use in cutting down trees. They typically feature long handles and large heads.
  5. Machete - A machete is a wide, sharp blade designed for cutting through thick vegetation like grass and small trees.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

    Axe Head - The head of the axe, which typically includes a steel blade and handle Axe Handle - The part of the axe that allows you to grip and swing it Axe Sheath - A protective cover that can be used to store and transport an axe Sharpening Stone - A tool used to sharpen the blade of an axe Axe Guard - A guard placed near the top of the handle to protect against slippage Splitting Wedge - A wedge-shaped tool used to split logs Hatchets - A smaller version of an axe with a single-edged blade Hatchet Sheath - A protective cover used to store and transport a hatchet Hammer - A tool used to drive in nails and rivets Axe File - A specialized file used to sharpen the blade of an axe

Common questions

  1. What types of Axes are there? There are many types of axes available, including splitting axes, felling axes, hatchets, hunting axes, throwing axes, and carpenter's axes.
  2. What is the difference between a splitting axe and a felling axe? A splitting axe is designed for splitting logs into smaller pieces, while a felling axe is used to cut down trees.
  3. What type of handle is used for an axe? Axes typically have either a wooden or metal handle.
  4. What is the ideal size for an axe? The ideal axe size depends on the user's height and strength - a taller and stronger user may require a longer axe than a shorter, weaker user.
  5. What maintenance is required for an axe? It is important to regularly sharpen the axe blade, oil the handle, and check for any signs of damage.
  6. How should an axe be stored? Axes should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Trivia

In 2015, a Taiwanese man attempted to steal a 30-pound axe from a hardware store, only to get stuck in the store’s doorway as he was trying to make his escape. The man, who was reportedly inebriated, was freed by the store’s employees and then arrested by police. The incident quickly went viral on social media, becoming an international laughing stock. Sources: https://www.cnn.com/2015/08/07/asia/taiwan-axe-stuck-thief/index.html.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.