Hultafors and Hults Bruk: Sweden’s Legacy of Axe and Tool Craftsmanship

For over a century, Sweden has been synonymous with quality hand tools, especially axes. At the heart of this legacy are two interconnected names: Hultafors and Hults Bruk. Whether you’re a professional arborist, a bushcraft enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates well-made tools, understanding the roots and distinctions between Hultafors and Hults Bruk reveals why these brands command such deep respect in the axe world.

A Shared Origin: The Hults Bruk Forge

The story begins in 1697, when the Hults Bruk forge was established in Östergötland, Sweden. Initially producing nails and iron goods, the forge evolved over centuries, eventually specializing in axe forging. By the late 1800s and early 1900s, Hults Bruk had become a leading name in European axe manufacturing, renowned for its hand-forging techniques and high carbon Swedish steel.

Fast forward to the modern era: Hultafors Group, a Swedish tool company founded in 1883 (originally known for its folding rule), acquired Hults Bruk to enhance its portfolio of hand tools. This is where the lines blur—and why many axe enthusiasts find the branding a bit confusing.

Hultafors vs Hults Bruk: What’s the Difference?

Though both brands stem from the same forge, they serve different markets and carry unique branding identities:

Hultafors Axes

• Marketed primarily in Europe and Scandinavia, Hultafors axes are designed for working professionals—foresters, carpenters, and tradespeople.

• These tools emphasize functionality, performance, and value, often offered at competitive prices.

• While still hand-forged at the Hults Bruk forge, the finishes are often more utilitarian. Expect less polish, but no compromise on performance.

• Popular models include the Dvardala Hunting Axe, Hult Splitting Axe, and the Hultån Hatchet.

Hults Bruk Axes

• Targeted primarily at the North American market, Hults Bruk-branded axes are presented as premium heritage tools.

• These axes feature polished heads, premium hickory handles, and often come with leather sheaths and more refined packaging.

• Hults Bruk axes appeal to those looking for both performance and aesthetics—often gifted or collected as well as used.

• Flagship models include the Hults Bruk Almike, Hults Bruk Akka Forester’s Axe, and the Tibro Carpenter’s Axe.

In essence, Hultafors axes are the workhorse—designed to be used hard in the field. Hults Bruk axes are the show horse, offering the same quality steel and forging, but with a premium finish and collector appeal.

Why Choose a Hultafors or Hults Bruk Axe?

1. Hand-Forged Quality

Every axe from the Hults Bruk forge is hand-forged, not mass-produced. This means each tool carries slight variations—evidence of its handmade nature.

2. Swedish Carbon Steel

The steel used is known for its superior edge retention, toughness, and ability to take a razor-sharp edge. The tempering process results in a fine balance between hardness and durability.

3. Sustainable Craftsmanship

Both brands emphasize long-lasting tools. Unlike disposable modern gear, these axes are made to be maintained and passed down through generations. Replacement handles, grindstones, and care accessories are readily available.

4. Heritage + Innovation

Though rooted in centuries-old traditions, the Hultafors Group continues to invest in research, ergonomics, and customer feedback—ensuring their axes remain relevant for modern users.

Where to Buy in Canada

At Axeman.ca, we’re proud to stock both Hultafors Premium Axes and select Hults Bruk models. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly work axe or a heritage-grade forest axe, we offer tools that are ready for real-world use—and built to last.

We also carry Hultafors grinding stones, hatchets, splitting axes, and more, making us your one-stop shop for Swedish axe excellence.

Final Thoughts

In a world increasingly dominated by mass production and synthetic materials, tools like those from Hultafors and Hults Bruk stand out. They’re forged in fire, shaped by hand, and backed by over 300 years of tradition. Whether you’re felling trees, building cabins, or just splitting kindling at your cabin, a Swedish axe from Hultafors or Hults Bruk is more than a tool—it’s a companion built for life.