15 best axes

*Overview of the best according to the editors of Healthy Food Near Me. About selection criteria. This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

The oldest hand tool of mankind is the ax. With its help, our ancestors built houses, harvested firewood for heating, and paved roads. The product has been repeatedly modified, new materials and technologies have been introduced. Today you can pick up an ax for any type of activity or woodworking operation. A wide range of chopping tools of domestic and foreign production is presented on the Russian market. Products differ in cost, size, design, etc. Our experts will help novice craftsmen choose an ax for the successful solution of specific tasks.

Recommendations for selection

Scope of application. The search for a tool should begin with the scope.

1. Universal models are best suited for owners of private houses. With their help, you can mount and dismantle buildings, cut down trees and bushes in the garden, prepare firewood for a fireplace or barbecue.

2. Tourist axes are somewhat similar to universal models. A distinctive feature of this group will be lightness, compactness and the presence of a high-quality cover. In addition to cutting trees and bushes, tourist models are often used as hammers, so the butt must be durable.

3. Carpenter’s axes stand apart. They are designed for specific wood processing operations. This group includes models with a special sharpening angle and a shortened ergonomic handle. A professional is unlikely to give his ax for cutting firewood.

4. But homeowners with stove heating have to harvest a large amount of firewood. This task is best handled by a cleaver. It has the dullest blade. But the ax has a large weight, which, combined with a long handle, allows you to make a sweeping blow. At the same time, the shape of the blade is convex, so the cleaver does not get stuck in the wood.

Blade. The working part of any ax is the blade.

1. It is made from high strength alloy steel. In order for the cutting edge to remain sharp and without nicks for a long time, manufacturers carry out local heat treatment. The butt remains softer, so it does not burst under high loads.

2. Modern axes have a seriously different sharpening angle. The smaller it is, the sharper the cutting edge. The smallest angle (20-25 degrees) is found in the logging tool. Universal models are sharpened at an angle of 25-30 degrees, while carpenters prefer blunter blades (30-45 degrees). Many splitters have a double-sided cut of the blade at an angle of 35 to 50 degrees.

ax. During work, a person holds the tool in his hand or hands by the handle. It comes in different lengths and shapes, the part is made from different materials.

1. The longest handles are found in cleavers (up to 800 mm). This is due to the fact that the sweeping movement leads to the formation of high impact energy. Short ax handles (300…400 mm) are equipped with tourist or universal models.

2. The traditional material for the manufacture of an ax handle is wood. Producers prefer deciduous varieties with high density. The priority is oak, birch, maple, walnut. Serious competition is currently being imposed on them by synthetic pens. They are made of polymeric materials, reinforced with fiberglass. Another popular option is the one-piece construction, in which the metal handle is covered with a layer of rubber.

Security. The sharp blade of the ax is fraught with danger, both during storage and during transportation. In the house or workshop, it is best to hang the tool so that children do not reach it. There must be a hole in the handle for this. Leather or plastic covers help protect the blade.

We have selected 15 of the best axes for our review. All these models are sold in the trade network of our country. When distributing positions, the editors of the magazine simplerule relied on the opinion of the expert community, taking into account the feedback from Russian users.

Rating of the best axes

The best universal axes

Every private house should have an axe. With it, you can harvest firewood for the barbecue, care for the garden, perform the installation or dismantling of buildings. The universal ax combines a democratic price, reliability, light weight and compact dimensions. The experts selected several suitable instruments.

Fiskars X7-XS

Rating: 4.9

The Fiskars X7-XS camping ax stands out with its stylish design. The black color of the blade smoothly passes into the fiberglass handle, it changes to an orange color in the middle of the ax handle. The model optimally combines lightness (0,64 kg) and compactness (354 mm). The Finnish manufacturer managed to find a balance between price and quality. The experts liked the ideal sharpening angle of 30 degrees. The blade is polished to a high shine and has undergone a two-stage heat treatment to increase its strength. Corrosion protection is provided by an anti-friction coating. At the end, the ax has a curved shape, which prevents the tool from slipping out of the hands. The model becomes the winner of our review.

The owners praise the Finnish product for its high quality, 20-year warranty, sharp sharpening, and the presence of a cover in the kit.

Husqvarna 5769264-01

Rating: 4.8

The Swedish ax Husqvarna 5769264-01 finds a wide scope. Although it is designed for carpentry work, the tool will help out both in nature and in everyday life. The manufacturer preferred the traditional design, making the blade from the original steel, and the ax handle from American hazel. The leather sheath helps keep the cutting edge sharp. Experts note the optimal ratio of the weight of the tool (about 1 kg) and the total length (375 mm). In the handle, the manufacturer made a hole for storing the tool. The asset should include a reliable fixation of the blade on the handle with the help of wooden and steel wedges. The ax takes an honorable second place in the review.

Domestic users liked the comfortable and beautiful handle, hard leather case, proper fit. The downside is the high price.

GARDENA 900B 8713-48

Rating: 4.7

The GARDENA 900B ax will help the user with the most difficult tasks while traveling or in the garden. The model receives bronze in our review for convenience, safety and a 25-year warranty. The blade is coated with a special coating that reduces friction and protects the steel from corrosion. The ax has an ergonomic shape, it is made of soft fiberglass reinforced plastic. With a mass of 900 g, the tool length is 340 mm. The manufacturer has equipped his product with a sledgehammer function, thanks to which you can quickly hammer wooden or aluminum wedges when felling trees or chopping firewood.

Domestic consumers are satisfied with the workmanship, convenient ax handle, wide functionality. The downside is the soft metal.

The best axes for chopping wood (cleavers)

The cleaver stands out against the background of axes with a long handle and a massive blade. Thanks to this combination, it is possible to generate high impact energy. One blow manages to break thick branched logs. Experts have identified several effective models for harvesting firewood.

FISCAR’S X25

Rating: 4.9

The FISKARS X25 splitting ax will help you quickly split a large log with branches. It is equipped with a forged steel blade that has undergone a two-stage hardening. To protect against corrosion and reduce friction, the manufacturer applied a special anti-friction coating. The special material FiberComp is also used in the manufacture of the handle. The hook-shaped bend prevents the hand from slipping. With a total weight of 2,4 kg, the length of the tool is 774 mm. For successful splitting of logs with a diameter of up to 300 mm, the blade has a sharpening angle of 35 degrees. The convex shape of the wedge of the ax makes it easier to remove it from the log. Comes with a practical plastic sheath that covers the sharp cutting edge.

In the reviews, the model received a lot of flattering words about a very comfortable and durable handle, a 25-year warranty, and a quick chopping of firewood.

GARDENA 1600S (8718-48)

Rating: 4.8

An excellent tool for preparing firewood for the winter is the GARDENA 1600S Splitting Axe. The steel blade is coated with a special coating that reduces friction and protects the metal from rusting. The manufacturer has developed a special blade geometry so that the tool effectively splits medium-sized logs. Lightweight and durable ax handle reinforced with fiberglass. Thanks to the stainless steel overlay, the handle is not damaged by a strong impact on the log. Experts note the perfect balance and precise weight distribution. The weight of the ax is 1,6 kg with a handle length of 600 mm. The product should be credited with a 25-year warranty and a sledgehammer function.

Russian consumers are satisfied with the well-balanced balance, the slip guard, and the ergonomic handle. The downside is the bulky case.

FISCAR’S X11

Rating: 4.7

The Finnish cleaver FISKARS X11 has the best combination of price and quality. Experts appreciated the well-defined butt, thanks to which wedges can be hammered with an ax without fear. The tool can handle logs up to 20 mm in diameter. The blade is easily pulled out of the wood, due to the convex shape of the wedge. It is made of alloy steel, which has been double hardened. Anti-friction coating reduces friction and prevents rust formation. The basis of the ax is the synthetic material FiberComp, a secure grip is provided by a shock-absorbing SoftGrip coating.

The owners praise the ax for its efficient splitting of firewood, comfortable grip, and affordable price. To some users, it seemed too light (1,1 kg), and the handle was a bit short (444 mm).

Kraftool X20

Rating: 4.6

The Kraftool X20 splitting ax is capable of coping with a serious preparation of firewood for the winter. The experts liked the excellent impact vector. All the energy of the swing is focused in the center of the blade. Thanks to double hardening with high-frequency currents, the manufacturer managed to achieve optimal hardness. You can work with an ax even in a harsh climate with a temperature of -30ºС. The convex wedge easily slips out of the log, making it easier for the wood splitter. The model differs from competitors in an affordable price and a nylon handle. The forged blade is firmly connected to a light ax handle. The cleaver fully meets the requirements of international standards TUV GS and DIN.

In Runet, the ax is praised for its strength, good balance, and the optimal sharpening angle. Not all owners like the irreplaceable ax handle.

The best carpenter’s axes

The most important tool for a carpenter is an axe. It should combine a special blade sharpening angle, light weight and a comfortable handle. All these criteria are met by the following models.

Husqvarna 5769265-01

Rating: 4.9

A wide range of carpentry work allows woodworkers to perform the Husqvarna ax 5769265-01. The tool is suitable for choosing grooves, removing chips and bark, splitting bars or boards. Experts note the high quality of workmanship, the manufacturer did not save on materials. The original hardened steel was specially developed for the blade, the wooden handle is made of American hazel. The safe movement and storage of the chopping tool is provided by a complex leather case. The ax weighs 1 kg, the length of the handle is 500 mm. The model wins the laurels of the winner of our review.

Users call the Swedish ax an expensive but solid tool. It does not need to be finalized, but immediately proceed to the processing of wood.

matrix 21498

Rating: 4.8

German developers offer Russian carpenters a one-piece forged ax matrix 21498. The model is sold at an affordable price, which is the merit of Chinese assemblers. The strengths of the tool experts include resistance to long-term intense loads and mechanical stress. The basis of the ax is a solid steel construction. The cutting edge is hardened to a hardness of 50-55 HRC, a comfortable grip provides a relief rubber coating of the handle. The model stands out from the competition not only by its low price, but also by its lightness (0,6 kg) and compactness (388 mm). The tool takes a silver position in the review.

Domestic users liked the one-piece forged design, high strength, affordable price. Of the shortcomings, they highlight a tangible return to the hand.

PATRIOT PA 445

Rating: 4.6

The carpenter’s ax PATRIOT PA 445 is a development of American specialists. It has a prefabricated structure (X-Rigid mounting system). The experts liked the high-precision blade grinding, the 30-degree sharpening angle and the durable Teflon coating. A plastic case is responsible for the safety of the tool. The handle made of rubberized fiberglass is distinguished by a special bend that prevents the ax from slipping out of the hands. The model weighs more than the main competitors (0,91 kg), the handle length is 445 mm. The chopping tool becomes the bronze medalist of our review.

In the reviews, the ax received a lot of flattering words for high-quality workmanship, a comfortable handle, and good sharpening. Of the weaknesses, users note not the best combination of weight and handle length.

The best travel axes

On a hike, you can not do without a chopping tool. With its help, it is possible to cut down trees, prepare firewood for a fire, sharpen stakes and drive them into the ground. Tourist ax has a compact size and light weight. Here are some interesting patterns.

FISCAR’S X7

Rating: 4.9

An excellent choice for tourists would be the FISKARS X7 axe. It is convenient both in work and in transportation. The model successfully combines low weight (0,64 kg) and compact dimensions (354 mm). The ax blade is sharply sharpened, the steel is coated with an anti-friction coating that reduces friction by 25%. In the manufacture of the ax handle, the manufacturer used a lightweight and durable material FiberComp. It is polyamide reinforced with fiberglass. The handle successfully resists moisture, temperature fluctuations and wear. The rubberized coating provides a comfortable grip. The butt is firmly pressed into the handle, ensuring the safety of the tool during operation. The model wins in our review.

Domestic tourists liked the instrument due to the long warranty period (20 years), excellent quality and indestructibility.

Husqvarna H900

Rating: 4.8

The Swedish ax Husqvarna H900 is able to cope with a wide range of tasks in the campaign. The tool allows you to chop young trees and bushes, prepare brushwood for a fire, drive sharpened stakes into the ground. Experts appreciated the stamped-forged head made of high-quality carbon steel. The handle is made of polyamide reinforced with fiberglass. Soft grip handles improve grip and reduce impact on the hand. The total weight of the chopping tool is 0,9 kg with a length of 340 mm. The model becomes the silver medalist of our review.

In campaigns, the ax has established itself as a reliable and convenient tool. But before work, you will have to sharpen the cutting edge, which is not difficult for the average owner to do on their own.

BAHCO HFGPS-0.7-400 FG

Rating: 4.7

The tourist ax BAHCO HFGPS-0.7-400 FG got on the prize podium of our review due to its functionality and reliability. The experts drew attention to the reverse side of the blade, which can play the role of a hammer. On a hike, you often have to drive stakes into the ground, and carrying another heavy tool with you is inconvenient. The durability of the model is ensured by a fiberglass handle. It withstands serious mechanical stress, while not slipping in the hand. Against the background of competitors, the ax looks the heaviest (1,07 kg), while its ax handle is quite long (380 mm).

Domestic users affectionately call the instrument a tomahawk. It looks funny, fits well in the hand, can be used as a hammer. Of the shortcomings, a thin handle and the absence of a cover are noted.

BISON 20643-06

Rating: 4.6

At the most attractive price, the tourist ax ZUBR 20643-06 is sold in Russian stores. In appearance, it resembles a kitchen hatchet only on an enlarged scale. The one-piece forged construction comes to the rescue when you have to cut trees or limbs in difficult conditions. The manufacturer took tool hardened steel as a basis, it makes the tool strong and durable. The rubberized handle lies well in the hand, without slipping out of a wet brush. Experts praised the manufacturer for a high-quality protective case that ensures the safe transportation of the tool. A small weight (0,6 kg) should be added to the asset of the product.

In the reviews, most of the flattering words are addressed to the low price, light weight, one-piece design. Some owners criticize poor sharpening and mild steel.

best hammer ax

Hammer ax differs in wide functionality. He is able not only to process wood, but also to drive or remove nails. A distinctive feature of the tool will be sharp sharpening, lightness and compactness. Most experts liked one model.

Bahco 494-600

Rating: 4.9

A multifunctional tool in the workshop or in the trunk of a car will be the Bahco 494-600 hammer-axe. It can be seen in the hands of a roofer or plasterer, gardener or carpenter. The product has a double-sided working part. On one side there is a sharp blade with a nail puller, the butt is made in the form of a square striker. The lightness of the tool is given by a hollow steel handle covered with a rubber cover. The length of the ax is only 315 mm with a mass of 0,847 g. The experts appreciated the simplicity, efficiency and affordable price of the tool, giving it the laurels of the winner.

The owners speak flatteringly about the versatility of the hammer-axe, comfortable handle, and durability. They consider the lack of a hole for hanging storage to be a minus of the model.

Attention! This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.