25" or greater Axe

S

soapboxpreacher

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Apr 3, 2010
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I currently have an 18" wetterlings large hunting axe and want to get something more capable and substantial. More tow-handed able and something that can take on a bigger job/task. I am not trying to be a logger just want something that is not necessarily meant to be a portable...camping axe. Something I can split some logs for a face cord but not necessarily a splitting axe only (Might be a stretch). But also something that can chop down some medium size trees. I came across a few Wetterlings 26" Forest Axe, Wetterlings 32" Swedish Axe, Snow and Neally “Our Best” Single Bit 2.25 lb. 28”...of course there are other like the Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe but those are expensive. This would fit the medium duty category...IMHO
 
I'm very happy with my Wetterlings 26" for the kind of duty you describe. It's heavy enough to handle splitting chores that would be a bit much for smaller axes. I think it's the one I'd take on a canoe trip (while my GB Small Forest Axe stayed home). The smaller axes are nice for a pack and lighter duties.

PC
 
Your large hunting axe is fine for limbing and such.

Since you didn't go for a cruiser axe (24-25"), and want something for more substantial work, I'd go for a full size axe.

The length depends on you. I like to have my big axes long enough that they would go into the ground, rather than my foot if I miss or get a glance. I like 36" axes for that.

Snow & Neally makes a good 36" double bit axe. Their 30" 3.5# axe is shorter, but quite capable.

If you want to go real cheap, Ace Hardware usually carries Collins Axes (made in Mexico now), I got a "hand forged" Jersey pattern 36" axe for $25 a few years ago. They also have a fairly cheap ($50 or so) double bit.

Of course, there's plenty of other makers out there for full size axes.
 
Seems to be between the SN 30" x 3.5# and the Wetterlings 32" AMERICAN FELLING AXE. Double Bit might be more than I would ever need. But I certainly love it!

I have found a great pricing on the wetterlings but the quality seems to be a little hit and miss with them. My new 18" LHA handle was not as impressive (Ok still impressive but with a few reservations) as I would have thought. As I run my hand the length of the handle I can fell micro slivers throughout the entire length, wood fibers standing up on the oiled handle. But also I would have thought the axe would have been sharper from what I have read. Not that it is dull but nowhere near a gransfors near shaving sharp...which I thought they would have been closer. I am not sure if I should touch up the handle (nor would I know how to do it right) for I believe they are oiled with boiled linesweed (not sure if this is correct) oil, which might make the fibers in the wood stand up and feel like micro slivers. I was considering a light fine sand paper with just a few swipes and then a fresh coat of oil (need to find the right oil). But more so not certain the grain is right in the handle to begin with. I am completely new to the newer axe department, so my observation might be way off! I will post pictures on a new post later. Anyway back to the original post, I believe those two might be a good choice.
 
Looked at a few axes yesterday at the local hardware store. On was 25-26"...it was in my opinion too short. There was a 36" as well. It was better. You can hold it well with 2 hands. I believe the wetterlings 32" will work well. Still on the fence but I certainly like it and the Snow and Neally. If they can be had for the right price...I think it is then worth it.
 
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