Ranger1
Gold Member
- Joined
- Oct 16, 1998
- Messages
- 685
Hello,
Recently, I found it necessary to start thinning out the pine trees on my property. Dad planted them way too close long ago and they are now starting to choke each other. So, never wanting to do the easy thing (chain saw) and wanting a winter time project that benefited me physically, I decided to thin out about 3 acres of 12"-18" dia. trees with an axe. And, since I am a knife collector and appreciate "the good stuff", I went in search of the best axe...
I had never heard of Gransfors Bruks until I began researching it here. I also noted the comments here about Elkton Tree Farm and since they are only 40 miles east of me, I called and made an appointment to see the line. Fortunately, John and Susan had just received a large shipment and I had a good selection.
Keep in mind that I only had intentions of purchasing an American Felling Axe and a smaller axe to limb the trees once felled.
However, after listening to John's advice,and after examining all of the axes...I bought FIVE!
Without going into great detail on each model, I will say a bit on each...
Wildlife Hatchet...razor sharp, with a wonderful balance. I had the pick of 6, so I was able to choose a beautiful, dark figured wood.
Hunter's Axe...I bought this simply because I liked it. It is such a well balanced little axe that I just had to have it. I have no idea if I will ever use it.
American Felling Axe...just exudes chopping power. It was the sharpest axe of all, it readily shaved hair from my forearms.
Splitting Maul...extremely sharp and heavy at 5.5#. I hope I will be able to split the bulk of the rounds without using a wedge. If I do need to strike a wedge, I can use the poll on the reverse side.
Scandinavian Forest Axe...for limbing the tree once felled to the ground. I had thought that the Small Forest Axe was better for this, however John showed me that it was probably too short for my stature and would be uncomfortable.
Obviously, I have to use these for their intended purposes before I can say I am completely happy. However, if the quality and reputation are near what I have read, I cannot see how I could be disappointed.
I did buy one of the Mini Belt Axes from another dealer in Colorado, largely because of the comments I read on this forum, and because it was cute in a practical way.
Elkton also carries the Ullfrotte line of Merino wool underwear...very neat! Merino wool terrycloth next to your skin that does not itch. The cuffs have thumb loops and wristlets built in.
No, I do not have any financial interest Elkton...I just enjoy dealing with a retailer that goes the extra mile to take care of a customer. I spent 10 years as a buyer at a major sporting goods wholesaler, I know good customer service when I see it.
If you are in the market for a great axe, you can call John and Susan at:
Elkton Tree Farm
1.888.291.5619 Pin #1791
Enjoy life,
Harry
Recently, I found it necessary to start thinning out the pine trees on my property. Dad planted them way too close long ago and they are now starting to choke each other. So, never wanting to do the easy thing (chain saw) and wanting a winter time project that benefited me physically, I decided to thin out about 3 acres of 12"-18" dia. trees with an axe. And, since I am a knife collector and appreciate "the good stuff", I went in search of the best axe...
I had never heard of Gransfors Bruks until I began researching it here. I also noted the comments here about Elkton Tree Farm and since they are only 40 miles east of me, I called and made an appointment to see the line. Fortunately, John and Susan had just received a large shipment and I had a good selection.
Keep in mind that I only had intentions of purchasing an American Felling Axe and a smaller axe to limb the trees once felled.
However, after listening to John's advice,and after examining all of the axes...I bought FIVE!
Without going into great detail on each model, I will say a bit on each...
Wildlife Hatchet...razor sharp, with a wonderful balance. I had the pick of 6, so I was able to choose a beautiful, dark figured wood.
Hunter's Axe...I bought this simply because I liked it. It is such a well balanced little axe that I just had to have it. I have no idea if I will ever use it.
American Felling Axe...just exudes chopping power. It was the sharpest axe of all, it readily shaved hair from my forearms.
Splitting Maul...extremely sharp and heavy at 5.5#. I hope I will be able to split the bulk of the rounds without using a wedge. If I do need to strike a wedge, I can use the poll on the reverse side.
Scandinavian Forest Axe...for limbing the tree once felled to the ground. I had thought that the Small Forest Axe was better for this, however John showed me that it was probably too short for my stature and would be uncomfortable.
Obviously, I have to use these for their intended purposes before I can say I am completely happy. However, if the quality and reputation are near what I have read, I cannot see how I could be disappointed.
I did buy one of the Mini Belt Axes from another dealer in Colorado, largely because of the comments I read on this forum, and because it was cute in a practical way.
Elkton also carries the Ullfrotte line of Merino wool underwear...very neat! Merino wool terrycloth next to your skin that does not itch. The cuffs have thumb loops and wristlets built in.
No, I do not have any financial interest Elkton...I just enjoy dealing with a retailer that goes the extra mile to take care of a customer. I spent 10 years as a buyer at a major sporting goods wholesaler, I know good customer service when I see it.
If you are in the market for a great axe, you can call John and Susan at:
Elkton Tree Farm
1.888.291.5619 Pin #1791
Enjoy life,
Harry