Best products from r/Axecraft
We found 31 comments on r/Axecraft discussing the most recommended products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 43 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Husqvarna 26" Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe
- Multi-purpose axe is a single-bit axe in traditional style
- Head is attached to the hickory shaft using both a wooden and Steel Wedge to secure fastening
- Versatile axe used for tree felling, wood chopping, and other jobs
- The long handle provides power to the cut
- Includes a leather edge cover
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions2. Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe 19 Inch, 420
Length with handle: 19 inch, Comes original Gransfors "Axe-book"Weight: 2 lbsSheath in vegetable tanned leatherPerfect for splitting small sticks or cutting limbwoodThe Small Forest Axe is excellent for felling trees and limbing
▼ Read Reddit mentions3. Council Tool 35JC36CP01 3.5# Classic Jersey Pattern SB Axe with 36" Curved Handle
- Forged Tool Steel Head. Made in USA
- Hand Sharpened, Tapered Bit for Cutting and Splitting
- 36-Inch Curved American Hickory Handle
- Axe Head is Hydraulically Seated Onto Handle and Secured With a Serrated Aluminum Wedge
- Interior Detail of the Eye is Tapered and Allows for a Strong Mechanical Bond
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions4. The Ax Book: The Lore and Science of the Woodcutter
31 chapters in allHundreds of illustrationsCook8-1/2" x 11"134 pp.
▼ Read Reddit mentions5. Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet
- Ideal for chopping kindling and small- to medium-sized logs
- Chops deeper with each swing to get more done faster
- Perfected balance and power-to-weight ratio increases swing speed to multiply power, much like an aluminum baseball bat
- Proprietary blade-grinding technique provides a sharper edge for better contact and cleaner cuts
- Lifetime warranty. Low-friction blade coating powers through wood and prevents head from getting stuck
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions6. 1844 Helko Werk Germany Vario 2000 Universal Axe - German Made Axe Tool for Splitting and Cutting with Interchangeable Head 10053
- Handmade In Germany - A larger, more powerful version of the Vario 2000 Universal Axe, with a longer handle and an upgraded 4 pound head capable of delivering incredible striking power. This axe is designed to handle heavy, difficult felling jobs. The curved, ergonomic handle creates excellent balance and minimizes fatigue. This axe may handle and feel like a traditional felling axe, but the wedge incline head design makes it an exceptional splitter as well.
- Patented Interchangeable Head Design With C50 High Carbon Steel - 53-56 HRC - The Vario 2000 uses Helko Werk's patented axe design - a German engineered bolt-on fastening system that introduces incredible versatility and efficiency across the Vario product line. All Vario heads, handles, and fastening components are fully interchangeable and inter-compatible. The heads are assembled with bolts which are driven through the handle and secured by a butt-plate retainer cap.
- Grade A American Hickory - Matte Lacquer Finish - 150 Grit Sanded Lightly lacquered with black-dipped grip, individually selected for grain orientation and density, and sustainably sourced grade A American hickory
- Includes Full Grain Leather Sheath - 1 Oz. Bottle of Axe Guard Protective Oil - All Helko Werk Axes include a vegetable-tanned premium leather axe sheath to protect your axes and hatchets
- Dimensions - Head Weight: 4lbs , Total Weight: 7 lbs, Bit Length: 5 ⅛ in, Handle Length: 36 in
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions7. Crescent Nicholson 8" Rectangular Double/Single Cut Axe File - Carded - 06706N
American pattern axe sharpening file with a double-cut side and a single-cut sideIdeal file for sharpening axes and miscellaneous garden toolsRectangular shape has a large surface area for faster filing workDouble-cut on one side for rough filing and single-cut on the opposite for finishingThis file...
▼ Read Reddit mentions8. BAHCO 332-21-51 21 Inch Pointed Nose Bow Saw
Small and handy bow saw for all around usePointed nose makes the saw ideal for use in tight spacesUsed for pruning and roofing workModel 332 is equipped with an Ergo handle
▼ Read Reddit mentions9. Gimiton 3 pcs Leather Craft Wooden Diamond Rhombus Awl 3mm 4mm 5mm S M L DIY Leather Stitching Sewing Awl Leathercraft Reaming Punch Tool (3 Sizes)
▼ Read Reddit mentions10. Tandy Leather Factory Size 2 Edge Beveler, Original Version
Bevels And Rounds Off Edges Of LeatherThe Larger The Number, The Wider The BevelPackage Contains Size 2Country Of Origin : Taiwan
▼ Read Reddit mentions11. Condor Tool & Knife, German Style Splitting Axe, American Hickory Handle With Sheath
Crafted from the highest quality materialsBuilt for performance and durabilityMade in El SalvadorHandle: American Hickory 34 inchBlade Material: 1045 HIGH CARBON STEELBlade Finish: Condor Classic
▼ Read Reddit mentions12. Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP - Preserves and Protects Leather - Great for Boots and More - 4 oz
Repels water better & longerRepels chemicals, manure acid, salt, concreteResists dry toy, scuffing, crackingResists mildew, mold, bacteria growthRestores & Preserves dried-out leather natually
▼ Read Reddit mentions13. Council Tool 2.0 Lb Hudson Bay Camp Axe, 24 Inch Curved Handle with Leather Sheath
2 Lb head; 24 inch Curved hickory handleForged from 5160 grade alloy steelBit is heat treated and quenched approximately 1 inch from the cutting edge, then tempered for maximum edge holding and toughness; final hardness Rc 52-56Axe head is coated with light oil to prevent rusting and to showcase the...
▼ Read Reddit mentions14. Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul 31.50 Inch Wood Splitting Axe, 450
5 1/2 ib. HeadLength with handle: 80 cm (31.5”)Weight: 3,2 kg (7 lb)Sheath in vegetable-tanned leather
▼ Read Reddit mentions15. Council Tool 2# Wood-Craft Pack Axe, 24" Hickory Handle
Overall weight: 2.75 lbs.Head weight: 2 lbs.5160 American Steel24" American hickory handle
▼ Read Reddit mentions16. Evapo-Rust The Original Super Safe Rust Remover, Water-Based, Non-Toxic, Biodegradable, 1 Gallon
- EVAPO-RUST RUST REMOVER: Evapo-Rust effortlessly removes rust from automotive parts, hardware, tools, cookware, and antiques without any scrubbing or sanding.
- SAFE TO USE: This metal rust remover is made of a non-toxic and water-based solution that is easy-to-use on automotive, household and industrial-grade metal parts. It contains no harmful acids, solvents, bases, odors or fumes.
- VERSATILE: The non-corrosive rust remover can be used to remove rust from all metals including auto parts, tools, cast iron cookware, clocks, grills, and more.
- EASY TO USE: To remove rust from your metal parts submerge completely in the water-based rust remover, once rust is removed, rinse with water and protect with corrosion inhibitor.
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATION: Our Evapo-Rust rust remover is available in a 1 gallon bottle.
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions17. Evapo-Rust GEL Rust Remover Removes Rust and Rust Stains from Most Surfaces, 8oz
New 8 ounce size is great for smaller jobsGreat for any rusty surfaceSafe on most painted surfaces, even chromeSafe and Cleans most metals; Cooper, Aluminum, Brass, Cast Iron
▼ Read Reddit mentions18. Cold Steel 90TH Trail Hawk American Hickory Handle, One Size
Sport type: Tactical & MilitaryCare instructions: Hand WashOverall Length: 22.00"Handle Material: American HickoryBlade Length: 6 1/2" (Hawk Length)Weight: 1.34 lbs.
▼ Read Reddit mentions19. Stanley 12-951 SpokeShave with Flat Base
- Mpn: 12-951
- Country of manufacture: Mexico
- Manufacturer: Stanley
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions20. Fiskars 378571-1002 X15 Chopping Axe 23.5", 23.5 Inch, Orange/Black,Yellow/Black
- Ideal for felling trees
- Chops deeper with each swing to get more done faster
- Perfected balance and power-to-weight ratio increases swing speed to multiply power, much like an aluminum baseball bat
- Shock-absorbing FiberComp handle is lightweight yet stronger than steel to prevent overstrike damage
- Lifetime warranty
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentionsTop comments mentioning products on r/Axecraft:
Summary
1. Husqvarna 26" Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe
- Multi-purpose axe is a single-bit axe in traditional style
- Head is attached to the hickory shaft using both a wooden and Steel Wedge to secure fastening
- Versatile axe used for tree felling, wood chopping, and other jobs
- The long handle provides power to the cut
- Includes a leather edge cover
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions2. Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe 19 Inch, 420
Length with handle: 19 inch, Comes original Gransfors "Axe-book"Weight: 2 lbsSheath in vegetable tanned leatherPerfect for splitting small sticks or cutting limbwoodThe Small Forest Axe is excellent for felling trees and limbing
▼ Read Reddit mentions3. Council Tool 35JC36CP01 3.5# Classic Jersey Pattern SB Axe with 36" Curved Handle
- Forged Tool Steel Head. Made in USA
- Hand Sharpened, Tapered Bit for Cutting and Splitting
- 36-Inch Curved American Hickory Handle
- Axe Head is Hydraulically Seated Onto Handle and Secured With a Serrated Aluminum Wedge
- Interior Detail of the Eye is Tapered and Allows for a Strong Mechanical Bond
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions4. The Ax Book: The Lore and Science of the Woodcutter
31 chapters in allHundreds of illustrationsCook8-1/2" x 11"134 pp.
▼ Read Reddit mentions5. Fiskars 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet
- Ideal for chopping kindling and small- to medium-sized logs
- Chops deeper with each swing to get more done faster
- Perfected balance and power-to-weight ratio increases swing speed to multiply power, much like an aluminum baseball bat
- Proprietary blade-grinding technique provides a sharper edge for better contact and cleaner cuts
- Lifetime warranty. Low-friction blade coating powers through wood and prevents head from getting stuck
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions6. 1844 Helko Werk Germany Vario 2000 Universal Axe - German Made Axe Tool for Splitting and Cutting with Interchangeable Head 10053
- Handmade In Germany - A larger, more powerful version of the Vario 2000 Universal Axe, with a longer handle and an upgraded 4 pound head capable of delivering incredible striking power. This axe is designed to handle heavy, difficult felling jobs. The curved, ergonomic handle creates excellent balance and minimizes fatigue. This axe may handle and feel like a traditional felling axe, but the wedge incline head design makes it an exceptional splitter as well.
- Patented Interchangeable Head Design With C50 High Carbon Steel - 53-56 HRC - The Vario 2000 uses Helko Werk's patented axe design - a German engineered bolt-on fastening system that introduces incredible versatility and efficiency across the Vario product line. All Vario heads, handles, and fastening components are fully interchangeable and inter-compatible. The heads are assembled with bolts which are driven through the handle and secured by a butt-plate retainer cap.
- Grade A American Hickory - Matte Lacquer Finish - 150 Grit Sanded Lightly lacquered with black-dipped grip, individually selected for grain orientation and density, and sustainably sourced grade A American hickory
- Includes Full Grain Leather Sheath - 1 Oz. Bottle of Axe Guard Protective Oil - All Helko Werk Axes include a vegetable-tanned premium leather axe sheath to protect your axes and hatchets
- Dimensions - Head Weight: 4lbs , Total Weight: 7 lbs, Bit Length: 5 ⅛ in, Handle Length: 36 in
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions7. Crescent Nicholson 8" Rectangular Double/Single Cut Axe File - Carded - 06706N
American pattern axe sharpening file with a double-cut side and a single-cut sideIdeal file for sharpening axes and miscellaneous garden toolsRectangular shape has a large surface area for faster filing workDouble-cut on one side for rough filing and single-cut on the opposite for finishingThis file...
▼ Read Reddit mentions8. BAHCO 332-21-51 21 Inch Pointed Nose Bow Saw
Small and handy bow saw for all around usePointed nose makes the saw ideal for use in tight spacesUsed for pruning and roofing workModel 332 is equipped with an Ergo handle
▼ Read Reddit mentions9. Gimiton 3 pcs Leather Craft Wooden Diamond Rhombus Awl 3mm 4mm 5mm S M L DIY Leather Stitching Sewing Awl Leathercraft Reaming Punch Tool (3 Sizes)
▼ Read Reddit mentions10. Tandy Leather Factory Size 2 Edge Beveler, Original Version
Bevels And Rounds Off Edges Of LeatherThe Larger The Number, The Wider The BevelPackage Contains Size 2Country Of Origin : Taiwan
▼ Read Reddit mentions11. Condor Tool & Knife, German Style Splitting Axe, American Hickory Handle With Sheath
Crafted from the highest quality materialsBuilt for performance and durabilityMade in El SalvadorHandle: American Hickory 34 inchBlade Material: 1045 HIGH CARBON STEELBlade Finish: Condor Classic
▼ Read Reddit mentions12. Obenauf's Heavy Duty LP - Preserves and Protects Leather - Great for Boots and More - 4 oz
Repels water better & longerRepels chemicals, manure acid, salt, concreteResists dry toy, scuffing, crackingResists mildew, mold, bacteria growthRestores & Preserves dried-out leather natually
▼ Read Reddit mentions13. Council Tool 2.0 Lb Hudson Bay Camp Axe, 24 Inch Curved Handle with Leather Sheath
2 Lb head; 24 inch Curved hickory handleForged from 5160 grade alloy steelBit is heat treated and quenched approximately 1 inch from the cutting edge, then tempered for maximum edge holding and toughness; final hardness Rc 52-56Axe head is coated with light oil to prevent rusting and to showcase the...
▼ Read Reddit mentions14. Gransfors Bruk Splitting Maul 31.50 Inch Wood Splitting Axe, 450
5 1/2 ib. HeadLength with handle: 80 cm (31.5”)Weight: 3,2 kg (7 lb)Sheath in vegetable-tanned leather
▼ Read Reddit mentions15. Council Tool 2# Wood-Craft Pack Axe, 24" Hickory Handle
Overall weight: 2.75 lbs.Head weight: 2 lbs.5160 American Steel24" American hickory handle
▼ Read Reddit mentions16. Evapo-Rust The Original Super Safe Rust Remover, Water-Based, Non-Toxic, Biodegradable, 1 Gallon
- EVAPO-RUST RUST REMOVER: Evapo-Rust effortlessly removes rust from automotive parts, hardware, tools, cookware, and antiques without any scrubbing or sanding.
- SAFE TO USE: This metal rust remover is made of a non-toxic and water-based solution that is easy-to-use on automotive, household and industrial-grade metal parts. It contains no harmful acids, solvents, bases, odors or fumes.
- VERSATILE: The non-corrosive rust remover can be used to remove rust from all metals including auto parts, tools, cast iron cookware, clocks, grills, and more.
- EASY TO USE: To remove rust from your metal parts submerge completely in the water-based rust remover, once rust is removed, rinse with water and protect with corrosion inhibitor.
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATION: Our Evapo-Rust rust remover is available in a 1 gallon bottle.
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions17. Evapo-Rust GEL Rust Remover Removes Rust and Rust Stains from Most Surfaces, 8oz
New 8 ounce size is great for smaller jobsGreat for any rusty surfaceSafe on most painted surfaces, even chromeSafe and Cleans most metals; Cooper, Aluminum, Brass, Cast Iron
▼ Read Reddit mentions18. Cold Steel 90TH Trail Hawk American Hickory Handle, One Size
Sport type: Tactical & MilitaryCare instructions: Hand WashOverall Length: 22.00"Handle Material: American HickoryBlade Length: 6 1/2" (Hawk Length)Weight: 1.34 lbs.
▼ Read Reddit mentions19. Stanley 12-951 SpokeShave with Flat Base
- Mpn: 12-951
- Country of manufacture: Mexico
- Manufacturer: Stanley
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions20. Fiskars 378571-1002 X15 Chopping Axe 23.5", 23.5 Inch, Orange/Black,Yellow/Black
- Ideal for felling trees
- Chops deeper with each swing to get more done faster
- Perfected balance and power-to-weight ratio increases swing speed to multiply power, much like an aluminum baseball bat
- Shock-absorbing FiberComp handle is lightweight yet stronger than steel to prevent overstrike damage
- Lifetime warranty
Features:
▼ Read Reddit mentions
I have a little collection of GB's, including the small forest, scandanvian forest, and mini belt hatchet, and for "all purpose" I'd suggest the scandanavian. It's got a great length handle, the head has a fantastic cut and isn't too heavy so you won't tire too quickly. The only con I'd say is the obvious... they're not great for splitting rounds due to the head geometry. Kindling, absolutely, but anything bigger than your thigh may require some effort.
May i suggest a non-GB? Check out the Helko Pioneer. It is roughly the same length handle as the scandanavian forest axe, but a bit beefier in the hands, and the head is a tad heavier and thicker. It's proven to be a fantastic cutter and it's not half bad at splitting also. It's excellent, quickly became a fave. Great metal too, holds a fantastic edge and has never rolled or chipped on me. Enjoy responsibly :).
I like to sharpen my axes with a file this one works well. I have different axes for felling and splitting yours looks like it has a hollow or concave grind in my experience these don't make good splitting axes (sorry) but where you are just using it for kindling it should be fine. I like to sharpen my splitting axes with a more robust edge think cleaver vs fillet knife. And just sharp enough that if you push on it and slide your hand down it will cut you so pressure won't break the skin and sliding your thumb along the edge won't cut you but both will. Good luck
Edit: watch this at 17:15 he is done hanging the head and begins in on sharpening
TBH I've gotten away from carrying an axe while backpacking entirely. If I'm splitting small logs I've really found that batoning them with a solid knife is just fine for me. So yeah, normally I just bring my knife and a bow saw like this. I just strap the body to my pack and pack the blade away safely. Saves a lot on weight (saw is < 11 oz.) and still gets me good results.
Ultimately we can't tell you what to do with your own axes, but I'd strongly advise against hacking up the one you've got. It seems like a lot of work and potential for botching it for pretty minimal gain.
First, get a leather edge beveler, like this. it will make your leather appear much more polished and clean.
Next, get a stitching awl and some waxed nylon thread. i cant quite see your stitches because it looks like you filled the stitch line with leather conditioner, but they seem like they are too far apart. when punching the holes, it is useful to use a stitching pony to help hold everything together while you stitch.
Your edges are unfinished, but it isnt too late.... you can still burnish them. get them slightly damp by wiping with a wet sponge (you only need one or two passes!) and then rub the edge vigorously with a very smooth object. even a sharpie or a very smooth countertop will work. I know some folks that use denim or canvas as well... like they say, there are many ways to skin a cat! just keep rubbing until the edge appears shiny and smooth. it shouldnt take more than a few minutes.
also, the watch distracts from the presentation of your craftsmanship. remove it from all future photos
Yes. The BLO should be good enough for a working tool. I replace the finish on all my hammers and axes with BLO and they hold up well. The BLO/beeswax can feel nicer in the hand but I'm not sure that it is tougher. Though the leather will do a better job of absorbing the melted wax then wood does.
For leather I prefer obenauf over generic mink oil. I think it does a better job but I haven't run a side by side test. I put that on all leather products so I would put that on first out of habit.
Fiskars X7
14" hatchet for $24 (WalMart), w/ a lifetime guarantee. The steel is a little softer than a Gransfors Bruks or Wetterlings, but it's also super-easy to sharpen and takes a good edge. It splits well, chops well and carves well. I've used mine to carve a bow-drill kit.
Here's a video review.
I almost got the Estwing, but it's heavier and the handle doesn't go all the way up to the head, which makes carving, detail work and fine splitting difficult.
I'd really like to have a Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe because it's the right size and the bit is heat treated to a greater hardness, so it'll take and hold a much sharper edge, but that also means it's more brittle. I live in Kentucky, with lots of Oak and Ash trees and those woods are tough enough to chip a hard, brittle edge.
A Council Tool Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe would also be a great option. Though pricey, it performs as well as a Gransfors Bruks, but with a slightly softer edge so it can take a bit more abuse.
I use the splitting maul. Its awesome. My favorite tool I own. Some of my buddies think its strange I enjoy splitting wood. But this maul makes it enjoyable.
http://www.amazon.com/Gransfors-Bruks-450-Splitting-Maul/dp/B000WIOE7A
Different Axe, and a bit of a investment, but this will be a great axe if he doesn't attack it with a grinder :)
https://www.amazon.com/Council-Tool-WOOD-CRAFT-Hickory-Handle/dp/B01F442H8E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1523068891&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=council+tool+pack+axe&amp;dpID=41mK9XEJxlL&amp;preST=_SY300_QL70_&amp;dpSrc=srch
For the ~$30 range I would recommend the Cold Steel Trail Hawk.
I say this because you'll find that
Congratulations on the nuptials!
Stanley spoke shave works great and under $20. You've got enough meat on that handle that you can practice and get the blade right.
Stanley 12-951 SpokeShave... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00002X1ZG?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf
Then use your rasp there to clean it up and get things rounded off better. Finally moving to some sandpaper.
A worthy endeavor, but in the interim, do have any good links to videos or literature that show axmanship, technique, and safety? Personally, I can't recommended The Axe Book by Dudley Cook
That or any literature or videos from the USFS
Eastwing makes a nice hatchet (My father has one that was handed down to him from his father that although it needs a restore job still works well). It is however heavier than something with a wooden handle so if weight is a concern you may want to look more this way. (Sorry I don't know how to pretty up a link)
http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-X7-Inch-Hatchet-78506935/dp/B0002YTO7E/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1418002422&amp;sr=8-7&amp;keywords=fiskars
I'd get her something like this https://www.amazon.com/Council-Tool-35JC36CP01-Classic-Pattern/dp/B01C57EZX8, a sheath, stone and file.
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At 5'8" I'm assuming she's strong enough to handle a full sized axe. My experience is that the efficiency you lose with smaller, lighter axes aren't worth the savings in weight. Better to get her a tool she can grow into a little rather than one she grows out of.
I have the husqvarna 26" axe which is made by hults bruks. It has been a fantastic axe and keeps its edge very well. I also have a gransfors bruks axe and the quality of the husqvarna is nearly identical.
https://www.amazon.com/Husqvarna-576926201-Curved-Wooden-Multipurpose/dp/B004WJGXAQ
A brief overview:
First, read the sidebar. It's right over there to your right. Go ahead. We can wait. After you do that, this is a brief history of the Kelly Axe Company. I myself recently found an old Kelly Perfect axe in my late grandfather's shed. There is a really good video called "An Axe To Grind," produced by the US Forest Service that details hanging and sharpening an axe. There is also a really good book that's worth picking up. Also, you can check out Wranglerstar on YouTube. He does lots of tool restoration. I do warn you, though, he's a deeply religious guy, and not afraid to tell you about it. That kind of thing can get under people's skin. As for a handle, I'd recommend making one yourself. The first one will be a PITA and will probably wind up getting changed for your second one, but the feeling of empowerment you get from that experience will change your worldview.
To your questions specifically:
I also vote for the Husqvarna ‘multi purpose axe’. Shaped like the other swede forest axes, in a ‘boy’s axe’ size which I prefer over the larger axes for most work.
$75 on Amazon
Any examples of it? I must admit I'm intrigued.
Edit: Found the culprit. https://www.amazon.com/Husqvarna-576926201-Curved-Wooden-Multipurpose/dp/B004WJGXAQ
Fiskars 23.5-Inch Chopping Axe
http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-7857-X15-23-5-Inch-Chopping/dp/B000BX4SBI
Remember that the lighter the axe head, the more work you have to do and the shorter the handle, the more dangerous. Unless you are 3 feet tall, boys axe or 3/4 axe with a 2.5lb head is in no way too small. The Husqvarna should be a good bet.
Not to be a downer but I was just this week shopping for my first axe. I thought the X7 was attractive for price but I always go on Amazon and look at the worst reviews to see if they are reasonable objections, or just people who don't know what they're talking about. Many of them reported the edge bending/folding after light use.
http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-78506935-X7-Hatchet-14-Inch/product-reviews/B0002YTO7E/ref=cm_cr_dp_qt_hist_one?ie=UTF8&amp;filterBy=addOneStar&amp;showViewpoints=0
I won't leave you with bad news without some good.
This is what I settled on: http://www.helkonorthamerica.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&amp;products_id=204
It's the Helko German Standard Universal Axe. I obviously haven't had the chance to use it yet but if you take a look at their description of their manufacturing techniques and specifications, it's a VERY good sign. My understanding is that these are primarily sold in Europe, so I couldn't find many Youtube reviews, but again the mfg. standards speak for themselves. All that for only $49 + $5 shipping!