New Gransfors Bruks opinions

[KarlMaldensNose]

I just discovered these new-ish models, and they are available in a shop close to me so I can actually fondle them before committing. Does anyone here have any experience with them that they can share?

Outdoor Axe
2.5" face
14.75" overall length
1 lb. head


Splitting Hatchet
2.5" face
16" overall length
2 lb. head


I was going to pick up the Small Forest Axe until I saw these. A big part of its usage would be splitting firewood for the campfire, so the Splitting Hatchet would seem to be more appropriate the the SFA, especially considering the SFA's narrow convex profile. But I'll also be doing some limbing and felling of smaller diameter standing dead trees, so the Outdoors Axe (along with the SFA) looks like a champ too, especially at half the weight of the Splitting Hatchet, as it will have to be carried in my pack over some torturously long portages.

I also like the functionality of the protective collars these two axes have; however, I'm not a fan of the aesthetics of the collar. And that's where the SFA moves ahead of the pack for me... I think it is a good looking tool with classic looks (c'mon, few of us would be here if we didn't perceive our "tools" as even just a little bit more than functional implements), on top of its generally agreed upon superb performance capabilities.

Just looking for some thoughts and opinions. Thanks.

 

[jds1]

I have a SFA as well as the Splitting Hatchet. I like them both, but find myself using the SH more frequently. Most of my axe work is splitting seasoned wood for home and camp and the SH does it WELL. If I'm on an overnight paddle trip the SFA gets the nod. I guess I'm giving you the classic response... "When in doubt, buy both".

Jeff

 

[KarlMaldensNose]

If I'm on an overnight paddle trip the SFA gets the nod. I guess I'm giving you the classic response... "When in doubt, buy both".
Jeff

I like that response and was hoping others would share that sentiment too so I don't feel like such a greedy consumer for getting both.

Thanks for the profile shot, it is a big help.

 

[Ebbtide]

I have the SFA, but not the GB splitting hatchet.
I've been eying that and this

http://www.gardenerstoolshed.com/mini_maul.html

Just an alternative to look at.
Does anyone have one?

 

[omniviking]

I have a SFA as well as the Splitting Hatchet. I like them both, but find myself using the SH more frequently. Most of my axe work is splitting seasoned wood for home and camp and the SH does it WELL. If I'm on an overnight paddle trip the SFA gets the nod. I guess I'm giving you the classic response... "When in doubt, buy both".

Jeff

Withthat shaped head, it looks like it would still take off some limbs if need be. besides splitting

 

[jds1]

Withthat shaped head, it looks like it would still take off some limbs if need be. besides splitting

It worked just fine limbing some ash trees that I took down. The extra mass in the head gives it some power.

Jeff

 

[Erasmus]

You need dem.
You know what to do.

 

[disduster]

i have the outdoor axe and i think it is great but a little pricey but worth for that swedish quality. Its compact and carrys and feels like a small hawk. Has no issue chopping 4 inch limbs quickly, the balance is spot on and lends to great control of this little guy. With being a small tool it does have it's limits but as long as you know them it can really be put through its paces.

some pics