suggestions for "all around" Mid-size Axe

The closest thing to an 'all-around' axe is a boys axe. Small enough to choke up on and use one-handed for bushcraft and skilled work. Yet large enough and with the proper geometry to do some actual chopping and splitting.

Peter Vido got it right here:

If only one axe (or only two, or only three axes)

But the original poster seemed to have something larger in mind.
 
Operator1975 said:
3 lb head 30-32 inch handle, wedge tight, bit sharp, use common sense, and away you go.

Don't over complicate things.
Click to expand...

I don't want to be the anorak on the coat hook here.. but wtf are you going to do with that other than fell medium trees? It too big bro (first time for all of us to hear that 'ey?)!

A 'general purpose' axe is generally going to be for leasuire/hobby uses not work or serious chopping. Enough blade to break up fire wood and still be used to rough out carvings, improv' wooden tools etc, is enough.

That's what the GB small forest axe was made for, to be that general purpose axe for the hobbiest camper, survivor, bushcrater or whatever the label is. It's the 'jack of trades' axe and it's also the 'master of none'.

My advise is to get yourself a decent small axe, with a fine edge that can actually cut wood and not just split (something older will likely be better unless you spend more than chump change). Give it a whirl for a few days, week etc and if you need a bigger one, invest in a bigger one. Untill then learn for yourself what you need, want and like.
 
Operator1975 said:
3 lb head 30-32 inch handle, wedge tight, bit sharp, use common sense, and away you go.

Don't over complicate things.
Click to expand...

Correct.

images

​

Samon said:
I don't want to be the anorak on the coat hook here.. but wtf are you going to do with that other than fell medium trees? It too big bro (first time for all of us to hear that 'ey?)!...
Click to expand...

I think O75 was responding to the OP's stated needs. ;)
 
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Square_peg said:
The closest thing to an 'all-around' axe is a boys axe. Small enough to choke up on and use one-handed for bushcraft and skilled work. Yet large enough and with the proper geometry to do some actual chopping and splitting.

Peter Vido got it right here:

If only one axe (or only two, or only three axes)

But the original poster seemed to have something larger in mind.
Click to expand...

I got that same sense. I'm only 5'9" and prefer a larger ax for chopping and splitting & agree.
I would imagine, based on the OP's stated potential uses, he'd benefit from something larger as well.
Having played with my 24" Wetterlings and my 27" Council Boy's Ax AND my 32" 3.5#ers, I want to
use the bigger axes for chopping and splitting. I'd imagine that learning chopping & splitting would
walking where carving and crafting with an ax would be running.
 
Hi all,

Wow! Being a "newbie" in the Axe world, I find this thread of mine has developed into something very interesting to say the least! I would of never believed that my post would be more enlightening/entertaining than threads such as : .45ACP or 9mm, Ford vs. Chevy, AK47 or AR15, Fixed Blade or Folder ? Seriously, I AM learning a lot! Thank you all.

Regards,
HARDBALL
 
Hi all,

I just removed the Head off the old "Yard Sale" Axe I bought some time back. With the Head removed, the Handle measures 31.5" O.A.L. (28" with Head on handle). So, is this a 31.5" or 28" handle ? At any rate, I REALLY like the feel of this ol' handle and it's size. I don't think I want to go shorter. Oooh btw, this old handle is quite lovely with nice grain and, it's a Fawns leg (I believe that's what it's called). Very cool looking and comfortable. I'm unsure of the type of Wood but, it's kind of dark/red'ish in color. I will fix her up and top her off with a vintage Head (when I find the right one). Using my scale, the weight of the old Head is 3.290 pounds. That's plenty enough! I need nothing greater than 3 pounds (perhaps even a little less).

HARDBALL
 
That was a 32" handle when it was put on (trimmed a half-inch after putting the head on). A 28" handle will be 28" overall length.

As big as you are, I think that will be a good choice for you.


-ben
 
Thanks for that information Ben. Yep, I do believe your right, that is to say, this old 32" handle feels REALLY good in my hands. This size handle has a kind of a "natural" feel if you will.

Regards,
HARDBALL
 
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