Thinking about a new axe

[hhmoore]

I've been considering a new axe for a few months. I don't NEED one, but that doesn't take the WANT away. I'm still wavering between a 28" vs 31" handle - I'll sort that it later (if it doesn't happen here as part of the discussion).

I've primarily been looking at the Helko Werk Classic line (Scout & Forester) and the Ochsenkopf Universal (Gold) Forestry (1257 & 1608). There are plenty of positive comments online about both; but I tend to look for the negative to try to get a feel for what I might not like about something. I've seen comments about the Ochsenkopf being on the soft side; but I can't find any supportive data on the hardness. For the Helko, I've seen comments about the handles being overly thick.
If anybody here has experience with these axes, I'd be interested in your feedback.
Thanks in advance.

 

[9.3x62]

I just sent a Helko back. Im sure the steel is great, but grain orientation and hang was awful on mine. Might try again though, i really like the tasmanian.

Pretty much all new axes comes with thick handle now, Helko no exception. But that can be fixed, if needed.

 

[hhmoore]

I just sent a Helko back. Im sure the steel is great, but grain orientation and hang was awful on mine.

As I've been reading through reviews, those - sadly - seem to be recurrent complaints. Handles cracking/breaking with minimal use, large gaps, heads coming loose, etc.
Did you buy yours direct, a retailer, or Amazon?
(Yes, Amazon is a retailer; but I view them a bit differently for some products)

 

[9.3x62]

As I've been reading through reviews, those - sadly - seem to be recurrent complaints. Handles cracking/breaking with minimal use, large gaps, heads coming loose, etc.
Did you buy yours direct, a retailer, or Amazon?
(Yes, Amazon is a retailer; but I view them a bit differently for some products)

Retailer, not Amazon. Also they seem to be cheaper here in the EU then in the US.
I’m willing to try again, but i would never pay US money for one.