Swede steel/American hickory

[Uncle Alvah]

Why is it that axes made in Sweden, i.e. Whetterlings, Gransfors, use American hickory for the haft? Is it because they don't have suitable trees growing there or is the American hickory simply the best wood to mate up with their high quality steel or what all?

 

[takeiteaszy]

As far as I know, hickory offers the best performance for an impact tool handle, as it is very springy for absorbing the shock of impact, and quite resilient. Most springy woods in Europe are softwoods, and aren't as durable as a hardwood is.