How to Choose the Right Axe for the Job: A Comprehensive Guide
Whether you're preparing firewood for winter, heading into the backcountry, or just clearing brush on your property, choosing the right axe is key to getting the job done efficiently and safely. Not all axes are built the same—and using the wrong one can make your work harder, slower, or even dangerous.
At Axeman.ca, we specialize in high-quality axes for professionals, homesteaders, and outdoor enthusiasts. In this guide, we break down how to choose the best axe for your task, and we showcase examples from trusted brands like Hultafors, Gränsfors Bruk, Dvardala, and Arvika.
Types of Axes and What They’re Made For
Each type of axe is designed with a specific task in mind. Here's a breakdown of the main categories:
1. Felling Axe
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Purpose: Chopping down trees
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Characteristics: Long handle, thinner bit for deep cuts across the grain
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Recommended for: Foresters, arborists, and serious woodcutters
Recommended axe:
Arvika Five Star Racing Pattern Felling Axe – 4.5 lb Premium
Forged in Sweden, this axe features a racing-style head that’s perfectly shaped for taking down large trees quickly. The 4.5 lb head delivers tremendous force, while the long hickory handle gives you maximum leverage.
2. Splitting Axe or Maul
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Purpose: Splitting wood along the grain
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Characteristics: Heavier head, wedge-shaped blade, designed to split rather than cut
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Recommended for: Firewood prep and homestead use
Recommended axes:
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Hultafors Splitting Axe – Lightweight but powerful
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Gränsfors Bruk Splitting Maul – Heavy-duty for dense hardwoods
The heavier the head, the more force you’ll get. The Gränsfors Maul is ideal if you're working through full rounds of oak or maple.
3. Hatchet
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Purpose: One-handed tasks like kindling, carving, or camp use
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Characteristics: Small, portable, very versatile
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Recommended for: Campers, hikers, bushcrafters
Recommended axe:
Hultafors Hultan Hatchet
Compact, razor-sharp, and lightweight, this hatchet is ideal for everything from making kindling to shelter building.
4. Carving Axe
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Purpose: Woodworking, bowl carving, spoon making
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Characteristics: Wide curved bit, short handle, often beveled on one side
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Recommended for: Craftsmen, green woodworkers
Recommended axe:
Gränsfors Bruk Large Carving Axe
This axe is hand-forged for control and comfort, whether you're carving bowls or roughing out timber.
5. Forest Axe / Bush Axe
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Purpose: General-use axe for the backcountry
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Characteristics: Medium-length handle, moderately weighted head
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Recommended for: Hikers, hunters, general-purpose outdoor users
Recommended axe:
Dvardala Hunting & Forest Axe
Handmade in Sweden, this axe balances power and packability. It can chop, split, and clear with ease.
Axe Handle Length and Weight: Why It Matters
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Short handles (9–14") are great for one-handed use and portability.
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Medium handles (19–26") offer balance for limbing, light felling, and all-purpose use.
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Long handles (27–36") deliver more power for felling and heavy splitting.
The weight of the head also plays a role. Heavier heads (3–5 lbs) deliver more power, while lighter heads (1–2 lbs) allow for precision and control.
💡 Tip: If you're new to axes, start with a mid-weight axe with a medium handle length to learn control before moving up to heavier tools.
Maintenance: Keep Your Axe in Top Shape
No matter which axe you choose, regular maintenance is essential. Here's how:
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Sharpen the edge using a quality tool like the Hultafors Grinding Stone
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Oil the handle with boiled linseed oil to prevent drying and cracking
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Store your axe properly—never leave it wet or in direct sun
Want to learn how to restore or rehang your axe? Check out our blog post:
👉 How to Replace an Axe Handle and Measure the Eye Correctly
Final Thoughts
The right axe for the job makes everything easier—and a whole lot safer. Whether you're splitting wood at the cabin or carving a masterpiece in your shop, choosing the right tool means better results with less effort.
At Axeman.ca, we only carry axes we trust—tried-and-true tools made in Sweden and beyond by people who still believe in doing things right.
If you’re still unsure which axe to get, reach out to us. We’re here to help.
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