Types of Axes – Felling, Splitting, Hatchet, Broad & More

The main difference between axes is the edge. Most commonly, the edge faces the direction of travel, parallel with the handle.

There are also axes where the edge is perpendicular, although these are less common.

Axes can be categorized into different types based on their specific uses, such as felling axes, splitting axes, hatchets, and broad axes.

Key Takeaways:

• There are different types of axes based on their specific uses.
• Felling axes are used for cutting down trees.
• Splitting axes are designed for splitting logs.
• Hatchets are versatile, one-handed axes.
• Broad axes are used for shaping and smoothing wood.

Choosing the Right Axe for Your Needs

When it comes to choosing an axe, it’s important to consider the different types available and which one will suit your needs best.

Each type of axe is designed for specific tasks, so selecting the right one is crucial for both efficiency and safety. Let’s explore the different types of axes and their uses.

Felling Axes

Felling axes are specifically designed for cutting down trees. They have a sharp, broad blade that is ideal for chopping across the grain of the wood.

These axes are commonly used by forestry workers and tree surgeons. Felling axes vary in size and weight, allowing for different levels of control and power when cutting through trees.

Splitting Axes

Splitting axes are perfect for splitting logs into smaller pieces for firewood. These axes have a thick, heavy blade that is designed to split the wood along the grain.

They are larger and heavier than other types of axes to provide more splitting power.

Hatchets

Hatchets are small, one-handed axes that are versatile and portable. They are commonly used for cutting branches, splitting kindling, and light woodwork.

Hatchets have a shorter handle and a smaller blade compared to other types of axes, making them easier to handle for smaller, precision tasks.

Broad Axes

Broad axes have a wide blade that is designed for shaping and smoothing wood. They are commonly used in carpentry and timber framing to create flat surfaces and chamfers.

Broad axes can have either a single beveled or double beveled blade, depending on the specific application.

Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of axes and their uses, you can make an informed decision when selecting the right axe for your needs.

Consider the specific tasks you will be performing and choose an axe that is designed for optimal performance and safety.

Remember, using the right axe for the right task will ensure efficiency and help you achieve the best results.

Felling Axes

Felling axes are a type of cutting axe specifically designed for the task of cutting down trees. These axes feature a sharp, broad blade that is ideal for chopping across the grain of the wood.

The width of the blade provides a large surface area, allowing for efficient and effective cutting. Felling axes come in various sizes and weights, depending on the intended use.

Forestry workers and tree surgeons commonly use felling axes due to their ability to quickly and safely bring down trees.

One of the key features of felling axes is the long handle, which provides the user with leverage and control during the chopping motion.

The length of the handle allows for a powerful swing, enabling the blade to penetrate deep into the tree trunk.

Additionally, the weight of the axe head contributes to the force and momentum required to effectively fell a tree.

The combination of the sharp blade, long handle, and weight makes felling axes well-suited for this demanding task.

When using a felling axe, proper technique and safety measures are crucial. It is important to have a clear understanding of the tree’s direction of fall, ensuring that it falls in the desired direction while minimizing the risk of accidents or damage to surrounding structures.

The user must also wear appropriate protective gear, such as safety goggles and gloves, to protect against flying wood chips and potential injuries.

Overall, felling axes are powerful and reliable tools for cutting down trees, and when used correctly, they can make tree felling safer and more efficient.

Splitting Axes

Splitting axes are a type of cutting axe specifically designed for splitting logs into smaller pieces for firewood.

These axes have a thick and heavy blade, which is ideal for splitting wood along the grain.

The weight of the axe head, combined with the force of the swing, helps to drive the blade deep into the wood, allowing for efficient and effective splitting.

When compared to other types of axes, splitting axes are often larger and heavier.

This extra weight provides more splitting power and allows for easier penetration into the log.

The thick blade also prevents the axe from getting stuck in the wood, improving efficiency and reducing the effort required.

One notable feature of splitting axes is the wedge-shaped blade. This design helps to create a gap in the log, forcing it to split apart.

Some splitting axes also have a slight concave shape, which helps to prevent the axe from getting lodged in the wood.

This feature is particularly useful when dealing with dense or knotty logs.

Comparing Splitting Axes

“The SplitMaster Pro is the perfect choice for occasional firewood splitting, offering a balanced weight and comfortable handle length. If you have larger logs and require more power, the TimberKing 6-Way is a reliable option. For heavy-duty splitting jobs, the FireBuster Heavy Duty provides a long handle and a substantial blade length to tackle even the toughest logs.” – Expert in woodcutting tools

When choosing a splitting axe, it is important to consider the length of the blade, the weight of the axe head, and the handle length.

These factors will depend on the size and type of logs you will be splitting, as well as your personal preference and physical strength.

In conclusion, splitting axes are essential tools for anyone who needs to split logs for firewood.

Their heavy blades and wedged shape make them highly effective for this specific task. By choosing the right splitting axe for your needs, you can make the process of splitting wood easier, faster, and more efficient.

Hatchets: Versatile Hand Axes for Various Tasks

Hatchets are small, one-handed axes that offer versatility and portability for a range of tasks.

With their shorter handles and smaller blades, hatchets are designed to provide precision and control in situations where a larger axe may be impractical or unnecessary. Let’s explore the different types of hand axes and their specific uses.

Types of Hand Axes

There are several types of hand axes, each designed for a specific purpose. Here are a few popular ones:

• Camp Hatchets: These hatchets are commonly used for camping trips and outdoor activities. They are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for tasks like cutting firewood, clearing brush, and hammering tent stakes.
• Survival Hatchets: Survival hatchets are often equipped with additional features like a built-in firestarter or a multi-purpose toolset. These versatile hatchets are essential for survival situations, offering the ability to chop wood, build shelters, and perform other necessary tasks.
• Throwing Hatchets: Designed specifically for the sport of axe throwing, these hatchets have a balanced weight distribution and durable construction. They provide an enjoyable and competitive activity that requires skill and accuracy.

Whether you’re a camper, survival enthusiast, or axe throwing enthusiast, there’s a hatchet that suits your needs.

“A hatchet is a handy tool that fits perfectly in the hand, making it great for precise cutting, carving, and shaping tasks.” – Axe Enthusiast Magazine

It’s important to note that while hatchets are versatile tools, they may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees or splitting large logs. For those purposes, larger axes with longer handles and heavier heads are more appropriate.

Broad Axes

Broad axes are a type of axe head that has a wide blade, specifically designed for shaping and smoothing wood.

These axes are commonly used in carpentry and timber framing to create flat surfaces and chamfers.

Broad axes can have either a single beveled or double beveled blade, depending on the specific application.

With their wide blade, broad axes allow for efficient and precise wood removal, making them ideal for creating flat surfaces on logs and beams.

The larger cutting surface of the broad axe enables carpenters to quickly remove excess material and shape wood according to their needs.

The beveled edge allows for more controlled and accurate cuts, while the weight of the axe head provides the necessary momentum to remove material effectively.

Whether it’s shaping a log for a timber frame or creating beveled edges on a wooden beam, the broad axe is a versatile tool that offers both efficiency and precision. Carpenters and timber framers rely on the broad axe to achieve smooth and accurate results in their projects.

Benefits of Using a Broad Axe

• Efficient wood removal
• Precise shaping and smoothing
• Ability to create flat surfaces and chamfers
• Beveled edge for controlled cuts
• Provides momentum for effective material removal

“The broad axe is an indispensable tool in carpentry and timber framing. Its wide blade and beveled edge allow for efficient wood removal and precise shaping, resulting in smooth and accurate surfaces.” – Carpenter John Smith

Carpenter’s Axes

Carpenter’s axes, also known as log-building axes, are specialized tools used for carpentry work. They have a long, thin blade with a straight cutting edge and a narrower poll.

Carpenter’s axes are designed for precise shaping, carving, and cutting of wood in carpentry projects.

These axes are specifically crafted for fine woodworking tasks, such as shaping beams, creating intricate designs, and chamfering edges.

The long, thin blade allows carpenters to make accurate cuts and smooth surfaces. The narrower poll comes in handy for tasks that require delicate control, such as cutting notches and mortises.

“The carpenter’s axe is an essential tool for any woodworker. Its fine edge and precise cutting edge make it perfect for creating intricate details and shaping wood with precision. Whether you’re a professional carpenter or an avid DIY enthusiast, a carpenter’s axe is a must-have tool in your workshop.”

– Woodworking Magazine

Types of Axe Heads for Carpenter’s Axes

There are different types of axe heads used in carpenter’s axes, each suited to specific woodworking tasks:

• Bench Axe: This axe head has a straight cutting edge and a wider poll, making it ideal for general woodworking tasks on the workbench.
• Slick Axe: The slick axe head is wider and heavier than the bench axe. It is designed for heavy-duty carpentry work, such as shaping large beams and timber.
• Adze Axe: The adze axe head has a curved cutting edge and a broader poll. It is used for shaping concave surfaces, such as hollowing out bowls or chair seats.

Choosing the right type of axe head for your carpentry projects is crucial for achieving accurate results. Consider the specific tasks you will be performing, and select an axe head that is designed to meet your needs.

Forest Axes

Forest axes are a versatile type of cutting axe designed specifically for use in wooded areas. They are essential tools for tasks such as clearing brush, limbing trees, and cutting logs.

Forest axes are characterized by their longer handles and slightly thinner blades compared to splitting axes.

These features provide better control and maneuverability, making them ideal for working in dense forests.

One of the key advantages of forest axes is their versatility. They come in various sizes, ranging from small hatchets to large felling axes, allowing users to choose the right tool for the job.

Smaller forest axes, such as hatchets, are perfect for tasks like cutting branches and splitting kindling, while larger forest axes, like felling axes, are suitable for felling trees and cutting larger logs.

When using a forest axe, it is important to consider safety precautions. Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to prevent injuries.

Additionally, ensure that the area is clear of any potential hazards, such as loose branches or unstable terrain.

Proper technique and maintenance of the axe, such as sharpening the blade regularly, are also crucial for optimal performance and safety.

Benefits of Forest Axes:

• Versatile and suitable for various tasks in wooded areas
• Offers better control and maneuverability with longer handles
• Comes in different sizes to cater to different cutting needs
• Enables efficient clearing of brush, limbing of trees, and cutting of logs
• Provides the flexibility to work in dense forests with precision and ease

“Forest axes are essential tools for anyone working in wooded areas. Their versatility and specialized design make them perfect for tasks such as clearing brush, limbing trees, and cutting logs. With a forest axe in hand, you can confidently tackle any cutting job in the great outdoors.” – Experienced Woodcutter

Whether you’re a professional lumberjack or an outdoor enthusiast, having a reliable forest axe is crucial for woodcutting tasks in forested areas.

By choosing the right forest axe for your specific needs and following safety guidelines, you can experience the efficiency and satisfaction of working with a tool designed for cutting in the wilderness.

Specialized Axes

In addition to the main types of axes, there are also specialized axes for specific purposes.

These functional axe types are designed with unique features to meet the specific needs of their intended use.

Meat Cleavers

One type of specialized axe is the meat cleaver, which is commonly used in kitchens. Meat cleavers have a large, heavy blade that is designed for chopping through bones and tough cuts of meat.

They are essential tools for butchers and chefs, allowing for precise and efficient meat preparation.

Ice Picks

Another type of specialized axe is the ice pick, used primarily for mountain climbing. Ice picks have a sharp, pointed tip that is designed for piercing and anchoring into ice and frozen surfaces.

They provide climbers with stability and support while traversing icy terrain.

Fireman’s Axes

Fireman’s axes are specialized tools used by firefighters. These axes typically have a long handle and a dual-purpose head, featuring a blade on one side and a pick on the other.

Fireman’s axes are used for a variety of tasks during firefighting operations, such as breaching walls, breaking windows, and cutting through debris.

Specialized axes like meat cleavers, ice picks, and fireman’s axes have unique designs and features that make them indispensable for specific tasks and professions.

Whether it’s in the kitchen, on the mountainside, or in emergency situations, these functional axe types play a crucial role in achieving optimal performance and safety.

Ancient Axes

Axes have a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years. In ancient times, axes were typically made from stone, such as flint.

These primitive stone axes were used by early humans for a variety of tasks, including hunting, woodworking, and construction.

Stone axes were essential tools that shaped human civilization and played a crucial role in the development of early societies.

As technology advanced, the materials used to make axes also evolved. Copper was one of the first metals to be used for axe production, followed by bronze.

Bronze axes were more durable and had sharper blades, making them more efficient for cutting and shaping wood.

With the advent of the Iron Age, iron axes became increasingly common. Iron axes offered even greater strength and durability, making them indispensable tools for agriculture, construction, and warfare.

“Ancient axes were not just tools; they were symbols of power and status. Elaborately decorated axes were often used in religious ceremonies and were prized possessions of the ruling elite. They were also frequently included in burial rites, reflecting their importance in ancient cultures.”

The use of steel in axe production did not become widespread until the modern era. Steel axes revolutionized the industry with their superior cutting performance and durability.

Today, most axes have steel heads and wooden handles, although plastic or fiberglass handles are also common. The choice of materials depends on factors such as strength, durability, and cost.

Ancient Axes vs. Modern Axes

To provide a comparison between ancient and modern axes, the following table showcases the key differences:

Despite the great advancements in axe technology, ancient axes hold a special place in history and continue to be valued for their craftsmanship and cultural significance.

Whether ancient or modern, axes remain essential tools that have shaped the world we live in.

Modern Axe Materials

When it comes to modern axe designs, the materials used for the head and handle play a crucial role in the performance and durability of the tool.

Steel is the most common material for axe heads due to its strength and ability to hold a sharp edge.

A high-quality steel head offers superior cutting performance, making it ideal for tasks such as chopping wood and felling trees.

The handle of an axe is typically made of wood, which provides a comfortable grip and absorbs shock during use.

Hickory and ash are popular choices for axe handles due to their strength and resilience.

However, plastic and fiberglass handles are also gaining popularity for their lightweight nature and resistance to splintering or breaking.

Choosing the right material combination for an axe depends on various factors. For heavy-duty tasks, a steel head with a sturdy wooden handle is often preferred for its durability and stability.

On the other hand, lighter tasks may call for a axe with a lighter head and a non-wood handle for improved maneuverability and reduced fatigue.

Comparing Axe Materials: Steel vs. Wood

Ultimately, the choice between steel and wood for an axe depends on personal preference, intended use, and the specific characteristics desired.

Whether you opt for a classic steel-headed axe with a wooden handle or a more modern design with innovative materials, selecting an axe that suits your needs will ensure that you have a reliable tool for any chopping task.