Expensive Axe Buyer's Guide: (SPOILER ALERT, Don't Buy One)

[@ryantoms6061]

When the high end axe craze dies out we might be able to score some nice unused axes at garage sales and such. That will be fun.

[@chongrobertjones]

Hans Umguy dude, that's a great idea!

[@nonyobussiness3440]

Hans Umguy or divorce tag sales

[@2adamast]

And later on when quality collections are sold there is often again an opportunity for cheaper buys.

[@ryantoms6061]

Richard Fageroni - Fine then. I should know better than dare to dream... No worries. I will just keep buying cheap/good council tools. ces't la vie!

[@Wedelj]

A thing is only worth what someone will pay for it. As soon as no one is willing to pay the high prices, those prices will drop. Just wait, you'll see them for cheap eventually.

[@humblehunk9022]

That being said, the gransfors Forrest axe I bought cuts unbelievably well. The first time I swung with it, I had a grin on my face that has lasted to this day (4 years and many camping trips later).

[@circedge]

It might matter if you're in a city and don't necessarily want to bother with sharpening tools. I spent some years on a farm as a kid and later occasional summers or winters and I have no idea what make of axes I used. You had a manual grinding wheel right next to a chopping block so you just used that if you weren't happy. And with a good swing I wasn't really paying attention to how finely or fast I chopped stuff up anyway.

[@blademan6075]

My first axe I bought brand new at 18 years old from the local hardware store 34 years ago. I still use it today. It cost me about $15.00. To me, mine is the best axe ever made!

[@shanedunn7475]

Same

[@FT4Freedom]

Same bro. Picked the best one and tuned it. $27 with a good American head and decent hickory.

[@JamesWillis-yy5px]

34 years ago, the hardware store had American made axes. Now you'll lose a limb when the Chinese made axe comes apart.

[@travelinventor9422]

$15 - 34 years ago, after inflation that's like $78,945 in today's money, right?

[@Roubian1]

Great video! Just ordered my Axe from Gucci with Tiffany diamonds! Cannot wait to go to the club with it and impress the ladies!

[@SkillCult]

That's okay, but if you didn't get the upgraded titanium sheath.... meh...

[@Roubian1]

SkillCult hahaha nah I got the gold lined crocodile skin sheath. It even came with a Starbucks gift card so I can order my Iced, Half Caff, Ristretto, Venti, 4-Pump, Sugar Free, Cinnamon, Dolce Soy Skinny Latte!

[@SkillCult]

DAMN YOU now I have to buy one!

[@Roubian1]

SkillCult 😂🤣

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

Don't forget to extend your pinkies when you hold those. LOL

[@zombiefighterof1987]

Who knew Rob Zombie knew so much about axes.

[@convex7456]

ZombieFighterOf2001 how the fuck did I not notice that 😁

[@Yummypikletits]

Lmao!!!!!!!!

[@hermit6208]

@Alpha Centauri nice!!

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

As a 2nd generation tradesman, I was taught that good tools are earned when your skills are up to par to the tool itself, but you learn with basic tools first. Your first real good quality tool you receive as a gift from a journeyman who taught you when he feels you're worthy of it like I received from my old man and like I passed on to those that I taught the trade when it was my turn to pay it forward. And I've made the same argument with the Council Tool Boy's Axe VS the Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Axe for typical chores (splitting, chopping, delimbing, etc...). It's not $100 better in my opinion. A $30 boy's axe in the right hands will last a lifetime and outperform a boutique axe in typical real-world uses. For the record, my first two boutique axes came ridiculously poorly hung and were unusable (the first one and the replacement). My $30 Council Tool boy's axe I bought to hold me over and I never put it down. It came hung right, I beat it winter, spring, summer, fall and it went through softwoods and hardwoods (my boutique axes couldn't last the first hour of use).

[@SkillCult]

That seems like a good default policy.

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

I don't know why I even comment on your videos bro. I always just find myself repeating what you already state in the footage. LOL Always good to hear what you have to say man. Keep it up. Oh, and I own a $300 custom forged 3/4 camp axe made to my specs. Truth be told, I don't use it. But I have no problem whipping out one of my $30 CT's and sometimes, my vintage axes and beating them like they owe me money. :) And I'm not beating up on Swedish axes. I just bought my 3rd and it came with the absolute straightest grain I've ever seen on a haft, a nearly perfect hang and I couldn't have handpicked something better myself. The great thing is that it only cost me $57/shipped in 48 to my door. It's the Husqvarna-branded Hults Bruks Carpenter's Axe and I got it mainly as a crafting & camp axe when I won't be needing a 3/4 axe (I don't do hatchets really). Then again, the Hults Bruks despite costing 1/2 of what their premium cousins cost for some reason come with a lot fewer issues for the most part. The Gransfors, the Wetterlings, etc...they make great carving axes. But I don't carve much really. Plus, they are designed for mostly softwoods use. That's why so many first time users chip their edges to death and have to reprofile them. Other than that, for light duty chores, they are great. Then again, who needs a $130 "light duty" camp axe when a $30 axe will do just a good or better? I digress.

[@SkillCult]

I think the Hults are probably much closer to modern drop forged process, because they don't seem to have much in the way of hammer marks. custom forged stuff is different too. That is art if nothing else and that is worth something.

[@samuelluria4744]

"Couldn't last the first hour of use"??? What the hell happened???

[@BOOSTEDLASER]

@@SkillCult What is your favorite mass produced brand?

[@unklecorky2181]

I never imagined a 175 dollar Gränsfors axe would be a status symbol lol.

[@shawnrieser6299]

And make sure you wear Jordans while using that ax

[@jhtsurvival]

I never imagined anyone was crazy enough to pay that much

[@paulwidomski8608]

Good video! I started by repairing an axe with a broken handle and then a flee market axes. After a few years my wife and I found a retail that had Gransfor Burks in stock. She picked me up a American felling axe. I was shocked!! Best axe that I currently own. I split wood with it regularly. I agree with you, start off with a beater from the flee market. When you rehandle a head it almost makes you develop a relationship with your axe. From there you can grow.

[@bushcraftbeats4556]

You want to know who convinced me that I needed a high end axe? YOU did! All of your critique of off the shelf axes, all of their flaws... Only natural to think, "Hey, I'll skip all those deficiencies and buy a premium axe." Not to say that I have bought a high end axe. I have a sordid axe history, but right now I'm using an X15! 23.5" long, no weight for the handle, and I use it as a backpacking/bushcraft axe. I did some file work (with that bahco file you recommended, thx, and bought $500 of other stuff through your link), and now I like using it. And I have to say, what I see, people are paying serious premiums for old quality American axe heads. No 5hit, but I just saw someone buy a $75 Plumb head, rusted to hell. I think this idea of finding $5 quality heads maybe is already in the past. I can't tell you how many times I've been out on my lawn in just my chonies, gut hanging out, screaming, "Get off my lawn!" People coming into my space, jacking the prices up. A couple of years ago, we escaped California, moved to a free western state. 2.5 years later, 1/2 of all the license plates I see are from California, it can take 3 green light cycles to make it through an intersection, mid day, and home prices have gone through the roof. That whole scenario has played out so many times, in so many ways. If y'all could get off my internet, that'd be great. I will, if able, buy a GFB small forest axe for backpacking. But only after I wear out that X15. Then again, we may buy them all for axe mask construction. And finally, I was staring at an old beat up pair of my New Balance this morning, thinking I'm such a cheap bastard, paid maybe $45 bucks for them. Thinking about all the people who needed a taste to get them to me. All of the raw materials that had to be created, shipped, all the machinery, all the humans, all the fuel to get them to me. It is insane that I can get them for $45. As hand makers of leather goods, we've really come to understand the cost and VALUE of hand produced goods. In my thinking of late, all this "deal" culture, like everyone (especially millennials and younger) wants a smoking hot deal on EVERYTHING. F'ing loosen up that wallet cheapo, and pay people for their work, and hey, maybe you'll have a job if people start including some freaking margin in their purchases. I'm totally a part of that deal culture, in a big way. Have been disabled since 2010, don't collect any kind of disability, money is TIGHT. But still, when there is a small company working hard to compete in this marketplace, spend a little money, man. Serious WOT, early morning ramble! Thumbs up if you actually made it this far.

[@SkillCult]

Ha! sucka. Most of those Californians stupidly pass NorCal and move straight up your way. I'm just praying we aren't "discovered". You can have 'em. Good point on the deal culture. There are still plenty of axe heads out there. More in some areas though.

[@bushcraftbeats4556]

Here's a vid you might enjoy: vimeo.com/3518256 Is putting vimeo links on youtube seedy?

[@SkillCult]

That's funny you found that. His example looked awful thick to me though lol. It was more like he had to look around and still couldn't find a good example. I saw one, the axe in the window that looked like old American axe handles do. There is also a really weird handle in the early part of the vid up high on the wall. I'd like to take a look at that one closer. Looks like a hewing or carpentry axe. the string example is almost an interesting way to look at it, just to try to explain something, but a handle works quite a bit differently. It could communicate a couple of things though., One is that it's not necessary to push the axe into the cut with the handle at all. The handle is just there to get the head to the target. and second, that it's that same mechanical advantage of a wheel at work, whatever that mechanical advantage or movement is called. The take home on handles is that the handle should be under very little stress if it's not gripped tightly when it hits the target. There is always side impact and hitting the handle, but for straight chopping and splitting under normal use, probably not much stress if the handle is viewed as just a way to get the head where it's going and not as a thing to force the head into the wood. Those companies should put someone on salary whose job is just to test and use axes year round. Either that or sponsor serious traditional craftsmen to get as much feedback as possible. That would be a good selling point. Like if they heated the offices with strictly axes ala cordwood challenge. Credibility is good.

[@bushcraftbeats4556]

Perhaps you can apply for that position, CAUO, Chief Axe Use Officer? Also thinking that you could swing a head on a rope, like he says, and drive that into a log. Viral gold there. Think about it!

[@walkingturtle1979]

What type of leather work do you do

[@CoRN_uk]

My Dad, now deceased, did not have many tools but, I did inherit a USA Collins that had been around for as long as I can remember. I'm now 51. I've no idea how he ended up with one of those over here in the UK. It is regularly used and still lovely in every way.

[@mtnman4766]

Bit of a fun ramble but all so true. I'm 70 years old and used axes most of my life. You swing 'em at wood. They cut the wood or you sharpen them and swing again. If you don't know how to swing an axe or how to maintain it, it doesn't matter if its a Collins or a high dollar Swede! Don't have to cut wood for fuel anymore but still love axes and axe work so now I'm teaching myself to carve with an axe. No high dollar one though! Bought a $29 camp hatchet, re-profiled it and fixed the wimpy handle. Sharpened to a razors edge and will put it up against any of those European axes as a practical tool. Thanks for the chat.

[@SkillCult]

Thanks for sharing that. I recommend people start carving with a regular camp hatchet, just because it build skill and familiarity with a multi-use tool. I can see why some people would use an expensive carving hatchet like the one that Liam and Max at woodsman's finest just put together. I'm sure it's great. Not anything anyone needs to get started in hatchet carving though.

[@LionAstrology]

Martin LE =) interesting story thanks for sharing. When I was 12 I modified a carpenters/shingle hatchet I secretly bought (my parents thought it was to dangerous) at a garage sale down my street for $2 ...16yrs later still have and use it and there is still no significant wear yet.

[@jeremyatkinson4976]

If you're using it for firewood splitting it doesn't have to be that sharp, the profile is more important

[@tsieglieh]

The further along I get in your video the more I am impressed.

[@k1j2f30]

Love the double bit you have sitting in front.

[@bartcornelius7717]

I think I'll be ok with the Husqvarna 26" axe. Thanks for the advice!

[@Earclops83]

The subtlety of your tank top for this video is hilarious. Love your videos dude. I live in Portland Oregon, but I'm from a small rural town where forestry was a legitimate class in high school. So you can just imagine the boutique overload at every turn. So many urban lumberjokes.

[@johnqpublic9074]

Finially someone gives the straight goods. Internet is full of 16yo kids giving advice on what to do, with no life experience. Garage sales, flea markets are all good places to get a decent axe. Split your winter heating wood for at least 5 years and you'll know what you need to about axes... experience is the best teacher.

[@sringfield45]

Watching your video is what I needed to figure out what I needed compared to wanting. Thanks again

[@prettyoutside7464]

Great thoughts, Steven. I've changed a lot the way I used to see things since I found your channel. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. - Davi

[@SkillCult]

Hi Davi. Thanks :)

[@liammcelvarr4859]

My first boys axe i ever bought, since there aint alot around my area, was the cold steel trail boss. Handle was ungodly thick and recently i thinned it out alot. I learned alot on that and now i have more experience i got a Council tools boys axe. Recommend def getting a cheap axe as well. Trail boss is what 30-35 bucks!!!!

[@anaya51]

Agreed on the buying a cheap one TO GET STARTED.... Once you're comfortable and find that you enjoy using it and or use it a lot....I am a strong advocate of spending the money and buying a tool that you absolutely love....saving the money and finally being able to get it and use it is so rewarding. Ps if you're still reading this take note: DONT EVER LOAN YOUR AXE TO ANYONE!! It WILL NOT return as the same tool that you sent out. I know that from experience:(

[@s10m0t10n]

Amen to that, my friend. I've been bitten like that a couple of times. Loaned a neighbour my splitting maul, collected it after a couple of weeks and had to spend hours cleaning the rust off the head, re-shaping the edge and sanding/oiling the woodwork. Also, Son-in-law borrowed my chainsaw which came back to me ruined because he used it to cut into soil and neglected to top up the chain oil. Never again.

[@anaya51]

s10m0t10n Jesus, he ran the chainsaw in the dirt?? I imagine you had to have a nice stern discussion with him after that. If nothin else just so he doesn't ruin his own chainsaw if he ever buys one. ...I can't seem to wrap my head around how people think it's ok to borrow something and not return in "the same or better" condition. Never seizes to amaze me.. Anywho, it's not much fun, but: a lesson learned the hard way is a lesson never forgotten!

[@s10m0t10n]

Hi Shane-O, Yep I've worked with that young man on several occasions and found that he is death to tools of almost any kind. He tends to buy budget priced stuff and works them past their capacity to perform at any satisfactory level. Consequently, I take my own tools if he needs help with a project and try not to let him get his hands on them. If I owned an anvil, I'd think twice about letting him use it - he might break it. He's a lovely young guy but, as you say, a lesson learned.

[@richardalexander5758]

Solid no hype advise, thanks. I picked up a 15" camp axe due to the way the American hickory handle was secured to the head, using a wedge and two metal locking rings. $35 seemed like a good starting place for the few times a year I camp and need to split kindling.

[@joeparisano7935]

Great to see more of your personality and humor coming through in these videos. I think some of these companies charge so much just for that "new axe feeling" haha

[@SkillCult]

and the logo...

[@3FeathersFarmstead]

I've had a 20 dollar boys axe that I bought from Tractor Supply 5 or 6 years ago...beat it all to hell. To this day I still pick it up and slam it into some rounds and it works just as fine as the day I questioned myself for buying a cheapo axe. I still have not spent more than 70 or 80 bucks on an axe and still get all my work done just fine. Preach it, sir!

[@drgenefish]

Agree with supporting local artists / brands in general (especially when it comes to food purchasing). This video was so spot on for general buying advice. Replace the word “axe” with anything (computer, weight lifting equipment, car) and this is great advice. Well done.

[@j.p.4541]

Glad you brought up people who buy the most expensive things as their first item. I live in TX and your comments remind me of people who buy Jeep Rubicons with lift kits and off-road tires, yet they never take them off road or go in the woods.

[@isavedtheuniverse]

I think its more of an attitude than tool issue. I noticed other people (i.e. really me, but I would rather blame other people) always have an excuse for not using whatever it is they have. If they have a $25 tool then its not good enough, and if they have the $250 tool then its too nice for the junk work they are doing with it. In the end you just have to get out and do it. You'll never get better at driving unless you drive. It doesn't matter if you are in the ferrari or civic, you just have to drive. You'll get better at driving by driving either just the same.

[@SkillCult]

good thoughts.

[@cjanderson66]

Best thing I heard in this video was “retail therapy”

[@normanmallory2055]

I want a tool that works every time i need to use it without having to overhaul it to make it work.. My take was one of several things , where i live i have dealers that carry tons of made in China axes/hatchets , ahhh nope not for me .. But these dealers also sell axes made by Stihl , Husq, Estwing (which i have owned , which produced more glancing blows that any axe i have ever owned) just didn't like the grind, so it was an overhaul of filing some of the convex out of the blade.. Better but i don't use it much now .. Fiskars made in Finland axes started to show up with their fiberglass hollow handles ( a bit too large ) but i bought one around the $40.00 mark and found the steel and grind (flat) to work very well, then i bought one with a shorter handle length of 19" I like it .. Some folks hate them, but in over 10 years of use they both just keep on going fine .. When blacksmiths didn't really have much more that an anvil and a set of hammers and a way to heat steel glowing red, forged steel has strength that the way it was back in the 1800, what other choice was there .. So next for me was to move up the line with either Wetterlings , Granfors , Hults Burk , yes as you know anyone of those three is expensive , well the days of the $17.95 made in America axes are gone off shore, my grandads axe prices are also gone .. That's the way it is, plus 60 years has passed us by and tools just cost more today.. I did look at Council tools which is like 136 year old company and i'm sure would have been very happy with a model but could not make up my mind on a certain model , plus the made in USA is very good .. Their top line models were not that far from the Swedish axes in price i discovered.. Gransfors it was for me, my choice was finally made after a year.. I use it a lot and really like it , i cannot find one thing i do not like about the tool ..At today's prices out there for almost anything in quality tools i didn't think $150.00 was unreasonable to pay.. Do i have regrets i ask myself , no i don't .. Could i chop the same wood and complete the same wood tasks with a $40.00 axe , yes i could and have done so .. Your video clip was very well done , i really enjoy them and learn things i did not know much about ..

[@bluesGs]

Hi :) Interesting point of view. I actually would say to get that expensive axe if you want it. I would say to beginers before they buy an axe : Obviously learn basic technics before hand not to get injured or to damage the axe (Im thinking of ray mears' video , short, simple, works great). Then when you get your expensive axe you'll look after it, you'll bond with it. You'll respect it more probably than a junk axe you don't care about. My first axe was the small forest axe from GB, i spent a looooot of time with it in the woods, learning how to use it best, learning how to sharpen it, fix some damage (because murphy's law). That's an axe i'm proud of. I'm not saying that i'd do that with every tool i have but i do with axes because they are my favorite tools. :)

[@geoffnepo]

I just heard some real practical advices, do I really need that expensive axe or is it a simple want ??

[@jfm562]

Great advice. I've fallen into this pitfall in the past too. I have lots of experience with a splitting maul. Not so much with an axe. 🍻

[@billbuck3590]

It may be the vodka talking but this dude has such a chill way of speaking.... I don't even care what he's saying....

[@ronschuster8575]

Excellent video as usual. I only wish you made it 5 or 6 years ago.

[@SkillCult]

lol

[@Squirrel200]

You are 100% correct as a old explorer the old Estwing axe handed down from Grandfather to father and kids still works good and it cost very little for a camp tool. Great video thank you!

[@youngwoodsman4110]

I've noticed the same thing you have on KZbin and the axe craze. I'm 15 and don't have a whole lotta money, I only get a few bucks here and there from shoveling driveways and such. Yet I have not spent more than 10 dollars on all 5 of my axes combined. By the way 5 axes is probably more than I need but it's fun to fix up a broken handled axe. So I only see a few reasons to buy a 200 dollar axe, none of them very good and most of them lazy reasons to do it.

[@SkillCult]

Cool. People like to accessorize, but I think it's a trap. I like good gear, but it's also a skill to make due with what is available. Fortunately, there are plenty of good axes around. I just picked up a couple the other day from a yard sale.

[@elmerfudd5925]

Young Woodsman. Good for you. Nothing wrong with buying stuff and fixing it up. Good way to develop skills and pride of ownership.

[@jeffbenjamin6480]

I process firewood just to heat the home I am by far no experienced woodsman. I have 2 Swedish axes that I found in a barn that after refurbishing I never use. I have a home depot plastic handle pos that sucks. But what I have bought and use weekly is Collins axes at Ace. The splitting maul and I have become old friends and have went through many cords of wood. I know many people think they suck but mine has held up very well.

[@TheGoodoftheLand]

Great vid.

[@peterbroadhurst7627]

Every now and then you come across a video/channel like this, which makes you realise how rare and increasingly valuable common sense has become.

[@pjilla629]

i feel like im kinda one of the people youre talking about. found my way onto camping youtube, then bushcraft, then axe and tool and gear. and much the same as your neighbor wranglerstar kinda made me see the beauty in axemanship. got my first axe a couple weeks ago. snow and nealy hudson bay for 70 dollars on sale tho. i know ive heard hudson bays have issues but it kinda juts spoke to me aesthetically. it has gotten me out of the house and into the woods for the first time in like 15 years tho.

[@msilverhammer]

That's how guys like Wranglerstar rake in the money. Anyway...good talk!

[@lindsaymix3842]

I’m one of those guys that watched Wranglerstar and bought expensive. Pretty in much in the order you stated…Council, Hults Bruk then Gransfors. I think it was red wine, not retail therapy. Anyway, I settled on the Velvicut Hudson Bay Hatchet and GB large forest axe. Gifted the others. Cheers.

[@emlillthings7914]

ready, set, autoplay ;)

[@SkillCult]

\m/>.

[@cosmicbilly]

Hey bro! Im thinking about buying a new axe. Ive been eyeing the hults bruk Agdor axe with a 2.5lb Montreal head on a 28 inch handle. Any thoughts on that axe? Ever used Montreal patterns?

[@glennluces2784]

sir...youre the most sincere axe channel review..i'm from the Philippines..the most expensive axe i bought from DIY cost 800pesos way back 2006.thats something like 15$ 53p/$..we udr it to cut 24" dia.manggo trees when we do house renovation that needs to eliminate existing trees that needs to be cut for housr expantion..then i got the same weight axe 2lb but cheaper at 500p or 9.43$..then the smallest 1lb axe cost like 350p or 6.5$...all these axes do the job..lately i've been really fascinated with Utube buscrafting videos and took me a lot of interest in buying the products shown..but alas..iwas kind of blown away with the prices of these products..i even tried asking my hischool climate there in USA to buy one for me but my budget would be limited to 60$ only..NOW that ive seen your video im having some second thoughts...WHY SHOULD I BUY AN EXPENSIVE AXE WHEN LOCAL AXES HERE ARE doing the same job with a very low low budget compared to the over rated imported axe???!!!..Thank you very much for the enlightment!!..

[@SkillCult]

It really is easy to get sucked into being sold up higher and higher when consuming a lot of product information, not just on axes, but anything. For some things it matters more though. If you import anything, I"d just get one or two vintage American heads and put your own handles on them. You must have woods there that are very good for axe handles.

[@Cadwaladr]

I have a couple of Wetterlings axes that I got many years ago because I saw them in a catalog (remember those?). Also at the time I thought the price of them seemed pretty reasonable. Maybe they're marked up more now. I really like the limbing axe, and I've used it a lot, though the first thing I did to it was shave down the handle.

[@SkillCult]

Good for you on the handle. a lot of people are afraid to touch them. All of those brands used to be a lot cheaper.

[@tonb6749]

I discovered your channel last night and watched several of the video's. Picked up a few pointers, thanks. I this morning noticed my local hardware store now carry's Hults Bruks. Now I have a pre 88 Hults Agdor I picked up for $5 at a tag sale, and they make a fine axe. I fondled the $189 Forest axe on the display, and put it back. 2 things. I thought of this video. And What I did yesterday, . Yesterday, I cut down an 8 inch cherry tree, bucked a section out, split it, then carved a spoontula to 80% done with a $25 Cold steel trail boss. I could have just as easily used either a $21 cheap hardware store axe I reworked, or one of many tag sale axes I have picked up over the years to do the same work. The $189 Hults .......... I can't see how things would have gone 250% better, than with the $25 axe. I use an axe probably 4 days a week, and I could not justify it. I just could not. Great channel.

[@tonb6749]

I realize a disclaimer is in order. I do not want someone 20 to 30 years younger than me, thinking I am saying the Cold Steel Trail Boss is meant to do what I did with it. 8 inch tree is really pushing the limit with it. It is not the right tool for splitting. BUT, when I really like an axe, I like to see what I can do with it. What its limitations are. And I like the Trail Boss a lot, for a $25 axe. It should be at least twice the cost. Thankfully it is not. Normally the Trail Boss see's 6 inch tree's and under. One of my boys axes , with a 28 inch handle would have been faster at felling and splitting.

[@SkillCult]

Thank you for the feedback. Good story :) I think in some cases price and quality is justified for even small gains, but a point I'd have liked to have driven home more and that I used to be more focused on is as you said, that at some point, the gains become small, if there are any. Quality and extra high functionality are great, but in what context are they necessary or will they make a difference. Thanks for commenting.

[@matrimchambers110]

Broke a Collins once! Took a 50 cent sized chunk out of the bottom of the bit. Straight grain, dried ash, couple years dead from the Ash Borer. Since that one broke I've been looking at a council tool boys axe, the 60 dollar 24" one. I'm looking at it because it seems to be a decent general purpose tool, as well as fits the category of tool required for a bushman class I'm attending. 19 to 24" haft and under 3lb head

[@ArtisanArborists]

When I started selling my woodcarvings and hand carved Epoxy Furniture I had purchased literally two of each Gransfors Bruk so I could carve and then make the most of my time and sharpening the whole lot of my axes at the end of the day. Prior to me deciding to sell my woodcarvings and hand carved Furniture I had been a Wildland Hotshot Sawyer and paid Structural Firefighter in the mountains of Colorado where I still live off the grid having wielded a axe and using one daily for close to 12 years now and have used a axe multiple times a week for 20 years now and being a outdoor enthusiast and enjoy Mountaineering and backpacking, have honed and fine tuned my survival skills and edible and medicinal plants having joined a Search and Rescue Team at the age of 13 years old and started my own sons in the wilderness at 4 and 3 with their first weekend survival training @ 10 and 9 years old and they were Able to walk off in the morning from my cabin and be gone all day coming from the ridge or the river with fish or something for dinner they had snare trapped. The reason I just went into great length was to give my own qualifications and state that those Gransfors Bruk axes were stolen from my dad's house wh4n we went on a long weekend vacation thought it best since ce I never locked my cabin to lock them up at my dad's and his insurance coverage was great replacing most of my stuff except for anything I used for work and so all that money I spent on those axes which I used for sure. However now that I am obviously more tenured and experienced in the axe market then even I had been before and I own only 5 Gransfors Bruk now out of my axe collection of 50 to 60 axes most certainly are cheap axes that is what I used for 20 years paying anything from $15-$40 and biggest thing I learned was valid in about everything a d i make suggestions all the time to do your research and keep an eye out for a good deal online. I purchase vintage axe heads still regularly basis to restore. purchasing the same axe heads that sell for a disgusting amount of money when hafted with a clean custom handle talking $400-$1200 and I buy the axe heads for $20-$59 and won't spend over that for collectors axes. I also think if a person learns how to haft their axe right away learning how by watching videos and they will be less likely to jack their axe up and that is because humans tend to appreciate shit more when we have to put the work in which applies to not fucking up your axe and dating .

[@torstenkiesewalter2851]

Thx for this great video. I’m a beginner and agree with all you say .. I bought the council tool boys axe 28 inch and really enjoy learning with it. Thx again. T

[@hagmark1]

Yeah! Totally agree. Gearheads oh well. Here in UK go to car boot sale and pick up a Brades’ or Gilpin and fettle and file it. You won’t go wrong. Thanks for the vids, Moz...

[@SkillCult]

Vintage is the way to go for lots of people.

[@TheChipmunk2008]

"Watched a bunch of wranglerstar videos" Well THERE'S yer problem...

[@sponge850bobette7]

I have a good size woodlot and a very old cottage. When I was young, I used to split the wood for the stove and fire place. Using a cheap axe, maul and sledge hammer and monster wedges. Being 40 years older the chainsaw's and manual milling tools have taken their place. I have installed an insert in the old fireplace and now have an efficient wood burning source. I have 5 cords coming in Sunday. Some has to be re-split because of size or to make kindling. Yes I looked at wrangle star bucking billy etc. . I settled for a nice Swedish small splitting axe by Husqvarna. Half the price the top of the line ones. Hand forged, razor sharp and nothing like the bulbous big box stores. Also works for de branching, and taking bark off. Happy camper.

[@Max-kw4px]

Well said. Damn, I wish these things were said way more often.

[@trashpanda8925]

just buy fiskars axe

[@gabrielsturdevant9700]

thats crazy talk

[@scotiabushcraft9570]

No, please no.

[@f0rumrr]

Said no one ever.

[@MartyInTheWoods]

NOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooo - LOL

[@lawrencegladwell163]

Agree I spent £39 on the Husqvarna forest Axe for my first axe. I made the modifications to the handle you recommended and put a rawhide collar on it. Couldn't be happier.

[@rawoodsman7656]

i bought a husqvarna 26" for like 40$.. used it for a week then cut the handle off and carved a new one, re-profiled the edge with a bastard file.. I've been using that axe for 7 years splitting fire wood and felling small trees. I broke 5 or 6 handles until i learned how to make and fit them correctly but it was worth it. Plus I haven't sharpened my axe in years.. i hone it every couple hours or so with a fine grit stone. It's still a hair shaving sharp and effective. i want a granfors but imo there's too many weekend warriors obsessing over it and driving the price up.

[@grattonland]

My 2 favourite axes are my Walters boy axe that my dad bought around 1979 when clearing the lot for the family home. Still the original handle, which I am happy because it’s small from the factory and has a really nice palm swell knob end that feels really comfortable to me. The other is a Sandvik hatchet that my dad bought at K-Mart in the mid 70s when we started camping, handle came off (resin instead of wedge), I need to make a new handle for it. Using knowledge I gained from watching you, I bought a cheap baseball bat (I mean handle) from Canadian Tire, fitted it on a cheap Canadian Tire head, then trimmed it down to be comfortable.

[@mercon1337]

I watched this wen it first came out and took the advice. I bought a cheep Collins axe from the hardware store and put a better Handel on it sharpened it and it’s great I’m working on a large felling axe now I got out of a rusty bucket at the flea market

[@emobmx69]

I cant lie, i have 4 axes in my amazon cart i was looking at and the one i liked the most was 200 but after watching this I had to sit back and think. Now i will be going to pawn shops or craigslist for a use beater to work with. Thanks man!

[@SkillCult]

Ha ha, nice man. A lot of those used heads and axes are very high quality. You could end up with an outstanding axe for very cheap.

[@Zara-tt7rh]

I know this vid is a little old, but its much appreciated. I'm happy to start with some cheap axes, and have been happy with the performance so far. I ordered a cold steel trail boss from amazon and got really lucky with the quality for 30.00! With a little modification, its been a perfect all purpose tool so far. Thanks from 2019.

[@SkillCult]

That's good to hear. Most people like their budget council axes. I wouldn't even buy new axes except for tests and reviews. I've passed up jillions of used ones over the years and still find them.

[@freezerburn04]

This is akin to beginning to play guitar i.e. start with a fair cheapo because you aren't used to this thing sticking out to the side and you WILL bounce it off of shit. After a year get a sweetheart. I began that journey 23 years ago.. and now I'm beginning another one, thanks for the insight.

[@Withplaneandsaw]

Great video all I buy are antique axe heads just recently bought a vintage 1 3/4 pound hults bruk head for 5$ can't beat that and is in perfect condition

[@toutatismoralis285]

You are so right when you say that there is a culture where people take pride of their tools instead of their skills. It reminded me of all the survival show where people in it are bushcraft instructor but in the forest itself they dont seems to know what to do.

[@mawuho1566]

Here in Germany the Gräns Fors replacement handles are the cheapest hickory handles to buy. They cost about 20€ for the big ones. I bought some handles from gräns fors in Sweden so cheap (about 3€ per handle) that I got them just for some project in the future. Yesterday I hafted an vintage english hatched head with one of them to make an light camp axe, it weights only 1 kg in total. Only their double bit handles are useless for me, because they are to thin for the eye of an old double bit, so I have to make this handles my self or order them from the states, but the shipping is already more than 30$. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. All the best from Germany, Maximilian.

[@SkillCult]

That's cool. Almost all European brands are expensive here.

[@SkillCult]

They make super nice handles. too thick for me, but that's not hard to fix.

[@JustinYawnUnplugged]

The juicing and broth fast is so your organs can rest while they detoxify. After the third day you are able to eat one raw meal a day if you choose. I'm an extreme person so I did the juicing for 21 days. You are not limited to how many juices you can drink so you won't be hungry except when your body just craves something. Which is a want not a need. You will get all you protein and fat from the broth and you will get all your vitamins, minerals and fats from the juice( especially if you add a tbsp of uodos oil to each juice. I have been using you trench method for making biochar. It's working out great. Thank you for your wisdom. Justin.

[@jessel8833]

Lol, axes are definitely one of the trends right now -- it's fantastic. Having good, high quality tools for anything is nice, but pointless if you don't use them, or don't know how to..... Not to mention you can fail to truly appreciate & realize what you have in a good tool, until you have experienced "lesser versions??" I've been splitting firewood for years & learned tons of mistakes on all sorts of cheap axes. Overstriking, hitting the dirt & rocks, ect.....Tons of lessons learned. Fiberglass axes seemed to work best, as they are a bit more forgiving & usually on the cheaper side -- the handles seem to weather the least & are pretty durable for actual work. Something to be said about wooden handles of course. So many options -- lol, "Retail Therapy" is so true. Companies like Amazon are great for access & purchasing options, but haven only made the buying of more crap we will never use that much worse. You don't learn how to drive in a brand new car....You learn with an old, cheap option that teaches you how to avoid mistakes in the future & how to care for your stuff. That way, when you invest tons of money on something, you have been prepared, prepped, & hopefully gained enough wisdom to respect & take care of what you have earned. Wise words.

[@TheOldManOutdoors]

Excellent video. You speak the truth. I have found my best axes are ones I bought old heads and rehafted. And the hunt for them is fun as well.

[@scootin123]

What's the latest pros and cons of one arm axe swings

[@gmoose777]

can't agree more, when I first started using axes I destroyed about six handles in six months, then I ran into an old fella who saw me hacking and took the time to straighten out my technique.I think i have br5oken a few since then but learning proper technique from someone sure makes axe work easier and cheaper in handles. I still have that old axe it's about due some tlc again might have to get to it soon

[@WilliamFrazier1488]

As growing up in rural PA I lived in a small village and had access to the greatest men I ever met that have all passed on now. These men taught me the greatest skills a boy could ever have hoped for, my next door neighbor was a Navy guy who taught me welding and fabricating. He was also a home builder as a civilian and built his own house which gave me the opportunity to learn carpentry which ended up being my first real paying job. I was very interested in shooting and hunting and learned from a handful of WWII guys that had lots of free time and did not like hanging out with their "old ladies" lol anyhow school was worthless for me and I am thankful for growing up in a time period that allowed for the interactions with these type of men that taught me skills that have carried me my whole life to be independant and self sufficient. I love your channel man and to any young guys who have access to the older generations "become a sponge and soak in all you can from them" times are a changing and we can always learn from our elders in life.

[@SkillCult]

Great story. I didn't get a lot of that growing up. You're lucky and like you said, harder and harder to find.

[@markschafer4554]

I am one of those amateurs who swoons over Gran Fors Bruks and the like. Thanks for talking truth and sense. Great reality check on why one does what they do.

[@TrollDragomir]

One of the most reliable, durable and well balanced hatchets I ever had is something I bought for an equivalent of 6 dollars at a hardware store :P One must just know what features of weight and shape to look for for the task, and then the steel is of secondary importance.

[@gunsmith19971997]

I have 20 axes most are boys axes most are off brand for the 50s to 90s and I use all of them they all work great I even have a China made ax that's farly new and it works great hardly have to sharpen them the best part is that the most expensive one I have is 15 dollers and it's a 2 and a half pound German made us forestry axe with the original handle and head and I use it more then any with the 28 in handle

[@deryccoulson4901]

My first axe was a 25 dollar un-named, unknown axe from an antique store. Taught my self how to sharpen it. I've been using it ever since. Teach yourself first. I need to learn how to make handles, then it's a game changer. Keep up your videos. There real. Authentic. Not a sales pitch. Good stuff.

[@SkillCult]

Nice, I think that is the best way to go if you can do it.

[@Goldenkryptonite999]

I love the way you think. “So whaaaat!” I got a really rusty boys axe, cleaned it up and put a hardware store handle on it. After the rust came off I saw that it was a Collins US made very much like the Council tools. I split 2 cords of sweet gum. Talk about a work out! I am out in Stockton where are you located?

[@SkillCult]

Mendo!

[@codyrivenburgh7645]

I'm an axe user and use axes and malls alot for most of my life...and buy lots of vintage axes and axe heads...and after 20 plus years of swinging hundreds of axes from cheap hardware store axes all the way up to gransfors and I still can't say I've 100 percent figured out what I want in an axe.....some are great choppers some better splitters...some just ok at both....or not great at either......and I'm always testing different grinds for chopping and just how thin I can get a grind before it crumbles...and the same with handles testing just how thin I can go before it breaks....with both (perfect) up and down grain.amd the exact opposite side ways grain.....I even have one handle I'm currently testing that's got twisted grain that is have eart wood half sap wood and starts up and down grain and goes sideways and has horrible runout ( I would have loved to see the tree it was cut from) and it's on a old worn down bouble bit I use for splitting narly wood and is holding up fine other then the fact Ive had to steam bent the propeller bend out of it twice

[@markmadsen6828]

Perfect sense.. I agree. I like your statement of truth, "They don't have super powers and they won't impart any to you". You can't buy experience or education that is worth anything.

[@13bravoredleg18]

I bought a Globemaster hewing hatchet, made in Italy for $5.95 on eBay! I do timber framing and this hatchet is actually very nice! 4 3/4" cutting edge and very heavy. Kindling splitting monster!

[@johnlieske8908]

Lots of good inexpensive axes from the 50s - 80s that works just fine .

[@ritesideofthefence5857]

Your point is well taken. However I am not a pro mechanic but I still use snapon tools. They always work and are made for a lifetime of use. Much the same as a great old firearm. If you never use the axe, any amount you paid is too much.

[@SkillCult]

Axes are a little different though, since they are subject to very hard use by all of us, and unintentional abuse by new users. Otherwise, I don't generally recommend lower grade tools and I'm all for having more good tools in the world. There is also a difference between quality and paying that good bit extra for a name or status. Good point though.

[@baldosolorio8111]

Don't forget about Woodsmans finest talking about someone that thinks the gear makes the craft of craftsman .

[@sunnybeach4837]

I'm sold on all of council tools 5160 axes velvicut and woodcraft line lol I like back packing I do t chop much wood. But I like them for the collection reasons. American made steel and just beautiful products. I do use them for camping and camp fires. But ultimately they are heirlooms

[@daveyjoweaver5183]

Hi Steve, Great advice. I have 6 axes mostly inherited from dad and grandfather. Got two plumbs, a craftsman, which look like the plumbs and a few vintage with no marks. Since I watch Skillcult, my axes and hatchets are a joy to use. The handle sliming and to fit my hands is all the difference. I've seen many axes, with and without handles for as little as two bucks at garage sales this summer. I have plenty already and wouldn't even consider buying an expensive axe. So many times I have custom made handles for my tools, being a cabinetmaker. But didn't think of reshaping my axe and hatchet handles until Skillcult. DAH! Indeed they are hoys to use, hold a good edge and are looking lovely as they age with linseed oiled handles, which I often did before with tool handles. So once again Steven, another home run for Skillcult and many thanks. My hides and knowledge on tanning skills and the results are great because of your sharing. I will always be learning and improving of course. Hopefully sharing and handing down our skills to the younger folks will create skillculted craftspeople and keep alive knowledge of our ancestors. Cool! Good work and Thanks again. Davey

[@SkillCult]

Thanks Davey :).

[@wesd3742]

Buckin Billy Ray can also turn an oldie into a goodie, but it might cost ya. Plus he knows how to use them as well as power saws. I liked the vid, new subscriber here. Keep up the good work

[@SkillCult]

Thanks. Buckin' is cool.

[@LolitasGarden]

Great chat. I agree. Not only with axes, but so much from homes to clothes. At a point your dollar can only do so much to improve what you're buying. Curious though: what kind of man buys Steven Edholm's cracked boy's axe from eBay? Thanks for the link to my channel. I can hardly hold back the subs ;)

[@SkillCult]

Your going to take all of my 13 subs and then some! Thanks for that footage, it was perfect. So funny.

[@evojigger]

I saw a vid on here a while back where someone bought the cheapest axe poss, steel was really soft so he heat treated it himself and it turned out that it hardened really well and took a good edge.

[@DavidPulsipher]

Why do people buy expensive things they don't have experience with? I think the notion is that they can "buy" experience. Same thing happens with people who buy racing bikes, who aren't bike racers. If it's good enough for the pros, then it'll help me be better. This makes a lot of sense, especially in our image conscious, up-selling economy. Good to hear this message in the axe world.

[@SkillCult]

ha, someone else mentioned bikes as an example too.

[@veshtitsacraftsandtunes4693]

I found some black locust planks in the basement. Probably 60+ years old, and they have turned to iron. I used mainly a hatchet to make my first handle for an old head I bought for six dollars. The wood was so hard I could only flatten it with a chisel. It left big gaps in the handle. They haven't compromised the structure but I think I'll fill them with epoxy. Otherwise it turned very sleek and elegant, and tough as hell. It's like the elvish stuff from LotR.

[@SkillCult]

Wow, that's a find. That stuff can be incredibly hard. Get a wood rasp if you don't have one. Good for shaping something like that.

[@laciihasz4734]

i don't have any axes, but i use hatchets. mostly for camping, few months ago i started carving spoons and began to use my hatchet for that too. i had a cheap faithful hatchet, picked it up from a diy store for £11. for camping it was ok, did what i need for. splitting kindling wood, making tent pegs, etc. than i started using it for spoon carving and i found out very quickly that it is not a good carving hatchet. i did make some changes on it first. carved the curved handle and made it straight, that improved a lot on is usability. than filed a lot out of the head, made it kinda like a bearded hatchet, this made it lighter and easier to use. but it still had a wedge like shape, more suitable for splitting than cutting. so i ended up buying a expensive hatchet. a hultafors trekking axe for £50. apart of the thick handle i am very happy with this one. i will carve the handle and make it thinner and straight. i will do it confidently cos i practised on a cheap one before. it is worth it to get a cheaper one to practice on, improve ur skills.

[@SkillCult]

I agree on that last thing. I generally recommend that people begin carving with whatever hatchet they have, or get a small camp hatchet to start with. It's a good option to have the ability to use something sub-optimal, and it helps learn your way around your hatchet, or any hatchet. I think I've only used a dedicated carving hatchet for about one minute, because my friend had a gransfors that I got to take a few whacks with just out of curiosity. Unless you could my hewing hatchet, which is not an amazing carving hatchet, though it's good for wasting a lot of wood quick and making planted surfaces. So I'm not the one to comment on their superiority or not. I just know a lot is possible with a small regular hatchet. Of course few hatchets or axes should be used out of the box without some modification.

[@laciihasz4734]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3OUgoadYsuaaJI just saw this video, kinda related to this topic. cheap vs expensive. the guy who made it clearly says that the cheaper hatchet was better. i would argue with that, especially because he re grinded the cheaper one before the comparison. what do u think about it?

[@SkillCult]

I think he needs to regrind that hults. I think that particular model looks promising actually (except the price :). I use hatchets a lot in the area where there is no padding on the handle, so that's a deal killer for me. Anyone who isn't using their hatchet there is not using it to it's full potential and versatility. I think their perspective is too limited to be making a fair comparison.

[@laciihasz4734]

SkillCult So i wasn't the only one who thought of this:) Since i started carving spoons i hold my hatchet most of the time near the head. When i saw the estwing my first thought was that this hatchet would be difficult to use for carving. Thanks for getting back, appreciate ur answers!

[@KillingerUSA]

What an appropriate shirt for this video! Haha! I bought at least 100 axes before I bought a GB. I have no where near the experience as you but I know my way around an axe. I grab the old cheap ones before the GB all the time. I will say this, I do enjoy owning the new velvicut line of axes from CT. It's not a must have. Just cool to support a company keeping alive the American way. But old axes are very good quality. Very good!

[@SkillCult]

That's a good point on supporting Council tool. I kind of feel the same way.

[@JAYoung08231981]

Estwing camp axe is the best over all ESPECIALLY for newbies. Sure it might be a little heavier and have a little more "Handle vibration" but it gets stuff done for a very reasonable price and you can't tear it up AND it's actually still made in the USA.

[@SkillCult]

I had one for a short while that was actually my first axe and decided I didn't like it. My neighbor has one, so I might tune that up and revisit it. I never liked the hatchet either. Okay for being indestructible though.

[@JAYoung08231981]

SkillCult Well like you said it gets the job done... It's not THE best at anything but it's sufficient for anything a novice could ask for and there is no skill required to replace the handle as you will never need to. #Best first

[@JAYoung08231981]

SkillCult Just as clarification I consider the 16" "Camper's axe" to be a BIG hatchet not a small axe. It's a little heavy for a "Hatchet" but otherwise performs quite well if you consider it as one.

[@michigandogman3060]

One of my best splitting axes is a 10.00 no name double bit and the plumb single bits are relatively cheap and are great splitting axes. Most of my axes I pick up at yard sales and if you know what your looking for you can find some pretty good deals.

[@latemcire8387]

I like what your saying. I’ve been attracted to large vintage Connecticut and Tasmanian pattern axes but those in good condition are fetching between $100-$200 on eBay. I’m now looking at Jersey pattern heads that are just as big but not as popular so go for way less. Truth is I don’t even have a need for one but seeing huge chips fly is pretty awesome and draws me in.

[@unitytira4954]

Thank you so much for sharing excellent principles, and penetrating questions of motivation “why”. It guards me from wrong decisions. 😊

[@RobertsBulgaria]

Well said that man, that was just what I wanted to hear.

[@aldredske6197]

Hi Steve, Thanks for the great video!! I will not buy any brand new axes. I usually watch the flea market and garage sales. In the last 2 months I have bought approximately 50 axes and head's and have spent less than 300 dollars. There are several rare heads that are bringing quite a bit of money on the market. Now the only problem is witch one do I use? I enjoy restoring them. So now I have a winter project!! Take care and stay safe my friend. Your friend Al.

[@SkillCult]

Ha ha, you're raking them in! GO AL GO!

[@johnclarke6647]

I know people like that. I hardly ever research on the internet. I watch a lot of videos but I take a lot of them with a grain of salt. I will take my 40 year old TruTemper axes agains anything from Sweden. My favorite is my 4# trutemper single bit that I cracked through the eye when I ran over it with a tractor. I had it MIG welded and hung a new handle in it, last year. It is ever bit as good as it ever was, now. I have a TruTemper boys axe, just like you have - red paint and all. I rehandled all of my axes last year with new hickory handles. I agree with you on handle modifications. The 36 inch handle on my TruTemper Swedish steel double bit is an example. It feels like a club. My CS Trail Boss is ever bit as good as a GF Small Forest Axe.

[@jtmag3638]

I agree, most people love looking at my few axes, and telling me they need an axe. 90% of folks around here don’t need an axe. I needed one because I love carving spoons, and I need a hatchet. I started with the fiskars x7, and it worked great. Eventually I wanted to chop down full dead trees and use all of the wood. I bought the marbles camp axe, and it’s perfect for my needs, the handle broke, I rehandled it, and bought another one for back up

[@LionAstrology]

Couldn't agree more..why I love my 2 1/2lb iltis ox head axe so much? It was free!! already had a slim handle on it my grandpa hafted. 5 handles/ in 10yrs, 2 in the first year lol. Still holds a wicked edge and rings like a bell =).