Last updated on June 4th, 2020 at 05:14 pm
Hi, welcome to the Best Axes Guide. Are you looking for a professional and honest Review? Tell you what it’s worth reading this article. We have got the experienced team applying the latest methods to evaluate the product.
Top 15 Best axes List
- Fiskars X-27 Splitting Axe 36 Inch
“Fiberglass Unbreakable handle“ - Husqvarna 26″ Wooden Multi-Purpose
“American Hickory Handle” - Fiskars X7 Hatchet 14 inch
“Camping axe”
- Fiskars Iso Core 8 lb Maul 36 Inch
“Big Splitting maul“ - Husqvarna S2800 27″ Splitting Axe
“Hammer Head-fiberglass“ - Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Axe
“classic wooden handle“ - Estwing Sportsman’s Axe – 14″
“strong steel Material“ - Cold Steel Trail Boss Axe, 27 Inch
“best splitting axe“
- CRKT 2730 Chogan Tomahawk Axe
“Removable head“ - Husqvarna H900 13″ Hatchet
“Compact size“ - Estwing Double Bit Axe
“Double cutting head” - Gerber 23.5-Inch Axe
“Great Penetration“ - Helko verk Vario 2000
“Ideal for heavy work“ - SOG Specialty Knives Tomahawk
“ideal for single-hand usage“ - Wilton BASH Splitting Maul
“Shock absorber”
Top 2 Picks
Well ,we all know technology has evolved a lot over the years, but axes have their own empire. If you are Splitting wood for log burners which are very trendy these days. Clearing trails, bushes or if you are professional like the farmer, firefighter or a true outdoorsman you just can’t afford to miss our Top 15 best axe 2020 list.
The amazing feature is that an axe can act as a great survival tool in an emergency like breaking down the door or camping out in remote areas. Generally, cutting axes have a shallow wedge angle, whereas splitting axes have a deeper angle. Most axes are double bevelled, i.e.the gransfors Bruk axe we have discussed later. Last but not least, it involves you in a healthy activity, which eventually saves gym expenses. If Kept with the care, it can be a lifetime companion.
Axes | weight/Length | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Fiskars 378841-1002 X27 | 5.85 pounds/36" | 5/5⭐ | |
Husqvarna 26" Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe | 2.1 pounds/26" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
fiskar x7 splitting axe | 1.38 pounds/14" | 5/5⭐ | |
FISKARS ISOCORE 8-POUND | 10.4 pounds/36" | 5/5⭐ | |
Husqvarna S2800 Composite Splitting Axe | 2.8 pounds/27" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe | 2.6 pounds/25" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Estwing Sportsman's Axe - 14" Camping Hatchet | 1.91 pounds/14" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Cold Steel Trail Boss Axe, 27 Inch | 27" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
CRKT 2730 Chogan Tomahawk Axe | 2.14 pounds | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Husqvarna H900 13" Composite Hatchet | 2.1 pounds/13" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Estwing Double Bit Axe | 2.55 pounds | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Gerber 23.5-Inch Axe | 7 ounces/23.5" | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Helko Werk Vario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter | 6.7 pounds | 4.5/5⭐ | |
SOG Specialty Knives Tactical Tomahawk Axe | 1.5 pounds | 4.5/5⭐ | |
Wilton BASH Splitting Maul | 10 pounds/36" | 4.5/5⭐ |
1.Fiskars X-27 Splitting Axe 36 Inch(Unbreakable handle)
Description
During our research, there were a lot of quality axes we found but no one took the first spot. The company founded back in 1649. Fiskars recorded the millions of sales in recent years for a reason. Known For their orange handles scissors. We were not surprised that they stand out when it comes Making the best splitting axe.
X27 is the best log splitter and most famous brand that Fiskars produced over the years thousands of reviews with a 5-star rating can only come from highly satisfied customers. This is a perfect tool for a taller user with the 36-inch handle to get their arms swings going. Handle giving strong grip to work with small to large size logs. It can easily be used for felling trees, bush crafts, clearing trails and splitting wood with a single strike.
Product Dimension 1 x 1 x 1 inches
Weight
5.85 pounds is ideal even if you are not strongly built. You can work with this axe for hours.
Handle
New innovative handle made of fiber strong enough to literally sustain for a lifetime. The most striking part is its ability to absorb shocks caused by overstriking. The handle is actually weightless because it is hollow from inside not like traditional wooden axes. The handle gives it a perfect balance to generate speed to get power behind the strike. Rubber cousin at the tail of it allows a strong grip.
Head
The head front end is sharp to rip through tough logs easily. The weight of the head gives it a perfect balance overall.
Accuracy
Because of the Head and special handle made of strong plastic material gives you dream balance to strike with accuracy.
Efficiency
Shine and shape of the head make it the best axes for splitting wood. It rarely gets stuck in the wood saves your time and energy.
Warranty
Not surprised that it comes with a 1-year warranty. Thousands of 5 stars reviews form all around the world makes it best woodman axe.
- 5 star ratings/Amazon’s choice
- Long Reach
- No hand strains
- Head rarely stucks in the wood
- Plastic sheath a bit bulky.
2.Husqvarna 26″ Wooden Multi-Purpose (American Hickory Handle)
Description
With no surprises, this Swedish made wooden axe gets the 2nd spot in our list. This particular model is with traditional look and the best wood splitter you would love to buy.
If you are fond of old traditional axes than Husqvarna no doubt is considered one of the best axes 2020 brands. Wooden axes have their own flare and class. It’s considered the best multipurpose tool for a reason, you can buy it as a Splitting axe or felling axe it’s there to perform no matter what. It comes handy with trimming branches or clearing bushes.
Product Dimensions
25.6 x 7.2 x 1.6 inches
Weight
2.1 lbs just perfect for speedy swings and accuracy without tiring.
Handle
Husqvarna axe handles are made of American Hickory. Grain orientation was found perfect which shows the quality of wood used for the handle. 26 inch long handle with slight curves gives you better grip and balance for speed and power striking. The handle comes with a light coat of oil on it, not varnished. Varnish handles offer slips when you sweat.
Head
The length of the head 6.5 inches and cutting edge is around 3.25 inches. The forging process makes sure that the head is strong and last long for years to come. The head is attached to the handle using both a wooden and a steel wedge to secure fastening.
Note: Don’t use it as a hammer to avoid head breakage.
- Amazon’s Choice
- classic look
- 4.5 star ratings
- Don’t store in too warm conditions, since the handle might shrink.
3.Fiskars X7 Hatchet 14 inch(Camping axe)
Description
Fiskar has a reputation in terms of providing quality accessories for home garden and outdoor. Fiskars X7 hatchet is also a sign of quality and performance with 5-star ratings. Thousands of positive reviews speak volume. Considered as the top quality camp axe in 2020 for chopping kidlings and small to medium logs.
Product Dimensions
16.6 x 1.1 x 5.8 inches
Weight
1.38-pound weight ideal for one-hand use without getting tired
Head
X7 head is crafted with grinding techniques to provide sharper edges with low friction coating. It really doesn’t get stuck so it saves energy. The head is pretty sharp to split the log in a single go.
Handle
The handle is a hollow, hard, plastic composite material that is literally unbreakable.14 inch comes with black and orange colour design. Because of its super-efficient design it provides power even working with one hand. Efficient working with small to medium size logs and considerd as best camp axe.
- Amazon’s choice
- Light weight
- Sharp head
- Easy to carry any where
- Plastic case a bit bulky for a hatchet.
4.Fiskars Iso Core 8 lb Maul 36 Inch(Best splitting maul)
Description
No wonder our list has so many Fiskars axes to offer. It’s the quality and the customer satisfaction Fiskars have provided over the years.
Iso core 8lb Maul is splitting maul monster it’s made to blast through tough logs. Shock absorber handle makes it super easy to work with this giant felling axe. You can keep working for longer duration without worrying about the wear and tear of your body. Let’s get into the features quickly.
Bit heavier than other Fiskars brands but it flies through logs like a hot knife through soft butter. It can replace hydraulic splitter anytime and saves you money.
Product Dimensions
3.2-7.8 36 inch
Weight
10.8 pounds Bit heavier than other Fiskars brand but it’s there to take care of heavy logs and felling trees.
Head
The front end of the head is sharp enough to go through heavy logs easily and back has a hammer-shaped end that can blast wedges as well. The head is permanently fixed and not coming off the handle.
Handle
As with most of the Fiskars brands, the handle provides shock absorber facility which is very important to be considerd as best log splitter. Strong hallow 36-inch handle with long reach makes it easy to use while felling trees.
- Amazon’s choice
- Long Reach
- hammer head
- Cons bit heavy not for beginners.
5.Husqvarna S2800 27″ Splitting Axe(Hammer Head-fiberglass)
Description
With hundreds of positive Husqvarna axe review combine with 4.5 ratings we simply can’t neglect to put it in the best axe 2020 list. Swedish made and Unlike the Husqvarna 26 wooden axe, it has Composite fibreglass handle with hammer axe head function. One of the best axe to buy for chopping and splitting wood.
Product Dimensions
28.5 x 8.9 x 1.6 inches
Weight
2.8 pounds a bit heavy but ideal for experienced users to hit tough logs with ease.
Head
Sharp front end for splitting wood and logs with additional Hammer function for easy and effective use of splitting wedges but not the steel wedges. Head is fairly optimized for better results even working with tough wood.
Handle
Made of strong fibreglass which is lightweight giving excellent balance for better striking. Handle absorbs unwanted shocks and vibration.
- Works best with large logs
- Handy hammer functions
- Heavy for beginners.
6.Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Axe(classic wooden handle)
Description
This is what professional love to have. Gransfors bruks are known for producing quality traditional axes. This axe really means business it really bits in deep. Ideal for felling larger trees and for limbing a felled tree. The leather sheath is provided to take care of that sharp head. One of the expensive but still the best axe 2020 of this size and the quality make it worth every cent.
Package Dimensions
25.2 x 7.5 x 1.3 inches
Weight
Head weight is 2 pound ideal for splitting axe, and the total weight is 2.6 pound.
Head
The head is made of high quality alloyed steel. The blade is sharp and thin and no need to worry about head getting loose or break. Head shape is correctly designed with the handle length to give rapid swings regularly.
Handle
Length of the handle is a 25-inch medium-sized ideal of all kind of users. The handle is made of solid wood which can absorb tough strikes. Extremely comfortable and sturdy in your hands, you’ll be willing to level a forest on your own.
- Rated highly by professionals
- Great forest axe
- Long Reach
- No hand strains
- Bit expensive
7. Estwing Sportsman’s Axe – 14″ Camping Hatchet(strong steel Material)
Description
Estwing knows for making American outdoor tools for over 90 years. It’s called hatchet because of its small handle. One of the best Utility axe you can find in the market. If you are looking for a camp axe in 2020 then it is the best option. Ideally used for chopping logs, small trees & branches or splitting firewood & kindling.
Product Dimension
13 x 7 x 2 inches
Weight
1.86 pounds
Head
Forged in one piece with finest American steel that’s why it’s the most durable, long-lasting striking tool. Hand Polished to give it a beautiful look to take for outdoor activities. It comes with a lovely leather sheath with stitches all around it. The back of the head is flat, which is perfect for hammering tent stakes into the ground.
Handle
The handle has genuine leather to give it a classic look and comfort when striking. Length 14 inch is just perfect for outdoor camping or to take it anywhere you like without any hassle. No maintenance required as compared to wooden axe.
- Rated highly
- Easy to carry
- Once get old handle leather might absorb water.
- Stickers on handle annoying.
8. Cold Steel Trail Boss Axe, 27 Inch(Best splitting axe)
Description
If you are looking for a forest axe then this one is ideal to buy. This axe has been sold a lot over the years because of its satisfied customers. Used for various reasons like chopping kindling, clearing roads, and trails, to build blinds and even to chop down a fair-sized tree. The sharp head makes it the best fire axe for your log burner.
Product Dimension
23 x 8 x 2 inches
Weight
Item weight is around 8 ounces perfect for carrying it all day. Light enough to get good speed to cut tree trunks deeply and sends chips flying, but still has just enough thickness to split firewood without any problem.
Handle
The total length of the handle is 27 inch makes it super easy to use with speed and accuracy. Grain orientation as good as you can get making the handle tough enough to last long. Handle made of American hickory with curves to ensure good grip and balance to make this the best axes in 2020.
Head
4″ blade and a 4 1/2″ cutting edge is ideal .The head is pretty sharp made of solid carbon steel. The head is perfectly balanced and ideal to sneak through the dead trees and tough logs. The head is seated very securely and we can’t see it coming off without abusing the hell out of the axe.
- Traditional look
- American Hickory Handle
- Ideal balance
- Bit of a hump under the head.
- Can Catch rust if not oiled.
9. CRKT 2730 Chogan Tomahawk Axe(Removable head)
Description
If you are found of tactical axe with the ability to cut through temper like a knife cutting through butter than nothing better than CRKT 2730 built by Ryan Johnson. Ryan, one of the best axe makers, has been building some of the finest custom made tomahawks this country has ever seen.
It’s considered the best tactical axe, but you can split, fall trees and do everything reasonable for an axe of this size. Hammer end can be used for driving in stakes. One of the best hunting axe in 2020 if you are fond of hunting.
Note: Head and the handle come separately.
Product Dimension
19.1 x 7.8 x 1.6 inches
Weight
2.14 pounds very ideal to act as a throwing axe as well.
Head
Made of solid carbon steel 1055. Blade length 88.9 mm with thickness 13.21mm and Hot forged to provide the cutting edge that really penetrates through. The head is thin from the cutting edge then gets a bit wide with the hammer at the end.
Handle
Made of Tennessee Hickory provides solidity for hard strikes and makes it best axe for splitting wood and bushcraft.
Style
Tomahawk
- Head easily removable for sharpening.
- Hammer on back very useful for pounding wood.
- Handle bit slipper need to be sand.
10.Husqvarna H900 13″ Hatchet(Compact size)
Description
It’s made in the land of gods, Sweden. Swedish Axes or hatchets are known for their quality and performance. You would definitely prefer the 13″ hatchet for camping and backpacking. The Quality of the Axe is excellent, and strong handle finishes with the leather scabbard, you will love the hand-forged look.
It’s large enough to do a credible job of splitting campfire wood and small enough to pack. It comes with Hammer function & shaft protection.
Product Dimensions
14.4 x 6.5 x 1.8 inches
Weight
2.1 pounds with the 13-inch handle is just about perfect to be considered as the best hatchet for camping.
Head
The special coating will help it to penetrate without getting stuck in the wood. Head nicely forged with a solid look. The blade is excellent for carving, chopping and for bushcraft you can’t go wrong with this hatchet.
Handle
Handle provides the perfect balance in combination with a head for continuous striking. The soft grip also absorbs any vibrations or jerks. Solid hammer shape at the back is very effective for splitting wedges.
- Rated highly
- Camp axe
- Non sticky blade
- Bit heavy not for throwing
11. Estwing Double Bit Axe(Double cutting head)
Description
We aimed to provide versatility along with quality in our top 15 best axe 2020 list and no wonder why we have chosen this amazing splitting axe. This USA made axe has a different design as compared to traditional axes with cutting edge on both sides of the head.
It is designed for sportsmen and military professionals Perfect for chopping logs, small trees & branches or splitting firewood & kindling.
Product Dimensions
17.2 x 7.5 x 1.2 inches
Item weight
7 ouns very lightweight and easy to carry anywhere you like.
Head
As the name suggests “double bit” with very sharp cutting edges on both sides. The blade is thin and literally feels no weight. It comes with a heavy-duty sheath which is vital for sharp edges.
Handle
It’s certainly the best axe handle with the appropriate length for the one-hand use. The rubber on the handle is for shock absorption as the company claims that it reduces the impact vibrations up to 70 %. The handle is more like a hatchet type and gives you a balance with the head for continuous chopping and kindling. Balance makes it best axes in 2020 for throwing if someone interested in that sport.
Durability
Made of a finest American steel promised to last long.
- Double sharp edges
- Shock absorber handle
- Handle slips a bit in sweaty hands
12. Gerber 23.5-Inch Axe(Great penetration)
Description
This Finland made Product gives great penetration and with the compact size, you can keep it at the back of your jeep for camping adventures. This forest axe is used for trail maintenance, bush crafts and a great log splitter with the ability to penetrate 3 times better than the average axe.
Product Dimensions
1.3 x 8.3 x 25.7 inches
Weight
The 7-ounce weight gives it an excellent look, and Proper weight distribution allows rapid swings and accuracy.
Head
Blade length is 3.5″ forged Steel Head, and PTFE coating reduces friction, chops clean and doesn’t get stuck in the wood.
Handle
Nylon handle with composite grip improves swings and reduces body and hand strains with excellent balance to get power behind the strike.
- Non sticky blade
- Penetration power
- No body and hand strains
- Bit heavy for beginners
13. Helko verk Vario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter(ideal for heavy work)
Description
Made in Germany with high-grade carbon steel. As the name suggests it is made for some serious work like splitting tree trunks, heavy firewood and even splitting greenwood with a couple of blows. Definitely one of the top quality splitting maul to put it in our special top 15 best axes 2020 list.
Product Dimension
35.4 x 7 x 2.2 inches
Weight
6.7 pounds of weight allows it to keep pounding on big logs with ease.
Head
Head Weight: 5 lbs. Made of German high carbon c50 steel, Hand forged and Helko crown hammered into the cheek to ensure it stays for a long time. The innovative head design speaks about exceptional craftsmanship.
The head is protected with the sheath made of vegetable tanned full-grain cow leather.
Handle
Handle Length 36 inch, and Total Weight is 8 ½ lbs crafted in Switzerland. Made of Grade A American hickory smoothly sanded to feel good in the hand. Length of the handle with proper weight gives it a great balance. The handle is complemented by protective oil to keep it intact for a lifetime.
- Good ratings
- Long Reach
- Ideal for heavy work
- Costly
- Not for beginners.
14.SOG Specialty Knives Tomahawk (ideal for single hand use)
Description
This is the best axe used for various reasons like chopping wood, kindling, clearing trails and keep it as camp or backpacking axe. Features a flat edge for hammering and a spike for piercing and serves as an emergency kit tool.
Product Dimension
15.8 x 8.2 x 0.8 inches0
Weight
1.5 pounds and overall balance makes it the best-throwing axe .
Head
2.75 inches of razor-sharp 420 stainless steel with a black blade finish for added durability. Head snaps securely in its ballistic nylon sheath
Handle
Glass-reinforced nylon handle which can survive for a lifetime. Length and weight gives it balance to hit the target in throwing competition. The grip on the handle is great even with wet or sweaty hands.
- Razer sharp head
- special handle material for durability
- excellent grip on the handle
- Head Sheath needs improvement
15.Wilton BASH Splitting Maul(Shock absorber)
Description
Bashing tough, naughty wood is made easy with this splitting maul. Unlike the traditional maul, weight is evenly distributed from top to bottom, which gives it more power. It doesn’t just split the wood It blows it apart.
Product Dimension
38 x 9 x 3 inches
Weight
10 pounds of weight, but it’s evenly distributed from head to bottom makes it comfortable to use.
Head
Cutting edge with a hammerhead at the back to take care of massive logs. The blade might not look sharp, but it penetrates through wood even with a single strike.
Handle
The steel core makes this handle unbreakable. The handle is very much different than the hickory handles as it flexes a bit upon striking. Might be an irritation for few but it helps to absorb shocks and unwanted vibrations caused by Overstrikes
- Excellent with heavy logs
- HammerHead
- Unbreakable handle
- Not for beginners
Expert Choice
The purpose of our review was to provide buyer all the possible options available when it comes to buying the best axes in 2020. Our expert’s suggestions are very much calculated based on positives reviews, ratings and evaluating the satisfaction level of the user over a period of time. Detailed research involved information from social, print and electronic media.
Importantly we have focused on the fact that you get the best quality axe without putting any burden on your pocket.
TOP PICKS
Points to consider before buying
- How much you are willing to spend: Very important to answer that question you might compromise quality over price.
- How often you will be using: If you are the regular user you must consider how long it’s going to survive and is it easy to maintain or is there any maintenance cost involved.
- The purpose for which you would like to buy an axe: what purpose you want the best axe for? Either for splitting wood, bushcraft or for camping and throwing obviously you don’t want to buy a small hatchet for felling big trees it’s not going to work.
- Durability: How long it will last that should be taken into consideration while buying a quality ax. These days modern axes are made with fiberglass handles which are unbreakable with the ability to absorb jerks as well.
Best Method/Trick for splitting wood/logs.
There are various methods for splitting logs but we would like to share a very handy method with the following process.
- Put 2 parallel medium size logs parallel to each other on the ground
- Place a tyre on them
- Fill the tyre with logs you want to split
- Start splitting with any of the best axes 2020 list we have suggested without worrying about flying debris.
Final Verdict
Well, our top 15 best axes list provides a variety of best axes and hatchets for splitting wood, bushcraft, And camping but you have to consider what suits you as per your need and budget. Always focus on the purpose for which you are buying an ax.
The height of the user with the physical strength along with the weight and handle length should be considered carefully before making any decision. You Need not to worry we believe our reviews with recommendations will make your life easy.
Last but not least always take every possible safety measure before working with an ax. Make sure to use safety boots and safety glasses for extra protection.
FAQS
How to sharpen the ax?
The simplest way to sharpen is it with a coarse whetstone. Apply a bit of oil on the axe blade and rub it on the stone in a circular motion.
Stone: Lansky puck is a double-grid sharpening stone cheap and easily available.
Oil: The most common is probably W40 or a thin oil like sewing machine oil gives the best results.
What are the best ax brands?
There are lots of famous brands like Fiskars, Husqvarna, Granfors Bruk, Gerber, Estwing, and SOG.
What is the difference between felling axe and a splitting axe?
Splitting axes in 2020 are designed to create smaller chunks by splitting small to medium size logs.
Felling axes normally used to chop down trees into small to medium size logs.
What’s better for splitting wood axe or maul?
Axe is for splitting wood but for felling trees, maul should be used.
What is the double-bitted axe?
As the name suggests axe head has 2 sharp edges on both sides of it for splitting.
What size should firewood be cut?
The standard length for firewood is 16 inches. The reason for this is that firewood is typically sold by the cord or fractions of a cord, an amount of wood that measures 4 feet high by 4 feet wide by 8 feet long.
How long should an axe handle be?
Depends on your need and height best axe handles for taller people is anything above 27 inches.If you are working with heavy logs than better to use long handles for great swing with the extension of the arms.
Is splitting log good exercise?
Definitely a healthy and enjoyable activity if you have the best ax to split wood.
What are the best axe handles?
American hickory wooden handles and Fibreglass handles are very much popular.
How to throw an axe?
There are various techniques depending upon your height, length, and weight of an axe. Normally you should be 15 feet from the target. Hold the ax with both hands thumbs should not be parallel to the handle rather fold your thumbs over your fist.
How do you pick a good AXE handle?
Wooden handles are picked by the grain orientation of the wood, straight grains along with the length of the handles are preferred. The grains going parallel from top to bottom along with the handle are considered best as they show the strength of the wood.