Whether you are maintaining a wooded homestead or someone who simply loves to work on woodcutting projects, then you know how important it is to have the right equipment. A felling axe is an essential tool for cutting down trees, and it’s vital to choose one that’s suitable for your needs. Plus, they are much safer than chainsaws.
Now lets take a look at seven of the best felling axes on the market based on recommendations from industry experts and consumers. We’ll cover their features, specifications, and what makes them stand out from the rest.
Our Recommended Gold Star Choice
While you cannot go wrong with any of the felling axes reviewed below, this beauty from Helko Werk is the best of the best. From amazing craftsmanship to multi use functionality, it's a true champion.
- Handmade in Germany: The Expedition is as big as they come, and is the workhorse of the Classic line. This serious...
- C50 High Carbon Steel: 53-56 HRC - Helko Werk axe heads are open-face drop forged individually by hand from German C50...
- Grade A American Hickory Handle: Linseed Oil Finish, 150 GRIT SANDED Sustainably sourced grade A American hickory...
- Includes Full Grain Leather Sheath and 1 oz Bottle of Axe Guard Protective Oil: All Helko Werk axes and hatchets include...
What is a Felling Axe and What Makes it Different from Others?
A felling axe is a type of hand axe that is specifically designed for cutting down trees or other large woody vegetation. It is a large, heavy tool that is used primarily for chopping, rather than for detail work or splitting wood. Here are some features that distinguish a felling axe from other types of axes:
- Long handle: A felling axe typically has a long handle that ranges from 28 to 36 inches in length. This allows the user to generate more leverage and power with each swing.
- Large, heavy head: The head of a felling axe is typically wider and heavier than other types of axes. This is to help generate more force with each swing and to make it easier to cut through thick branches and tree trunks.
- Thin blade: The blade is usually thinner than other types of axes, which helps it to slice through wood more efficiently. The thin blade also helps to reduce the amount of friction that is generated during each swing, which makes it easier to chop through tough wood.
- Curved handle: Many felling axes have a slight curve in the handle that allows the user to generate more power with each swing. The curve helps to align the swing with the user’s natural motion, which can reduce strain and fatigue.
1. Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe
The Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe is an outstanding choice for felling trees, splitting wood, and other woodcutting tasks. This axe is handcrafted by Swedish artisans, and each one is unique, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
One of the key features of this axe is its head, which is designed to cut through thick wood with ease. The blade is made from high-quality carbon steel and has a convex shape that helps it to split the wood efficiently. Additionally, the edge is razor-sharp and retains its sharpness for a long time.
The handle of the Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe is made from hickory, a strong
2. Husqvarna Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe
The Husqvarna Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe is another excellent choice for felling trees and splitting wood. This axe has a durable and sharp head made from Swedish steel, which makes it ideal for heavy-duty work.
One of the standout features of this axe is its ergonomic design, which includes a comfortable grip and a balance point that’s close to the head. This design helps to reduce the impact of shock and vibrations when you’re chopping, making it easier on your hands and arms.
The handle of the Husqvarna Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe is made from hickory, a durable wood that’s resistant to impact and splitting. The axe comes with a leather sheath that helps to protect the blade when it’s not in use.
3. Helko Werk Black Forest Woodworker Axe
If their Expedition axe listed as our top choice isn’t of your linking, the Helko Werk Black Forest Woodworker Axe might be what you are looking for. It is a German-made axe that’s designed for heavy-duty woodcutting tasks. This axe has a durable and sharp head made from high-quality carbon steel, which makes it ideal for chopping down trees and splitting wood.
One of the standout features of this axe is its handle, which is made from American hickory and is designed to be comfortable and ergonomic. The handle has a slight curve that helps to keep your hands in a natural position when you’re using the axe, reducing the risk of injury.
The Helko Werk Black Forest Woodworker Axe also comes with a leather sheath that helps to protect the blade when it’s not in use. Additionally, this axe is backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in its quality and durability.
4. Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe
The Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe is a Swedish-made axe that’s designed for outdoor activities like camping, hunting, and woodcutting. This axe has a durable and sharp head made from high-quality carbon steel, which makes it ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
One of the standout features of this axe is its handle, which is made from American hickory and is designed to be comfortable and durable. The handle has a slight curve that helps to keep your hands in a natural position when you’re using the axe, reducing the risk of injury.
The Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe is also lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around when you’re out in the woods. Additionally, this axe is backed by
a 20-year warranty, so you can be confident in its quality and durability.
5. Council Tool Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe
The Council Tool Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe is an American-made axe that’s designed for heavy-duty woodcutting tasks. This axe has a durable and sharp head made from high-quality carbon steel, which makes it ideal for chopping down trees and splitting wood.
One of the standout features of this axe is its handle, which is made from hickory and is designed to be comfortable and durable. The handle has a slight curve that helps to keep your hands in a natural position when you’re using the axe, reducing the risk of injury.
The Council Tool Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe also comes with a leather sheath that helps to protect the blade when it’s not in use. Additionally, this axe is backed by a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in its quality and durability.
6. Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe
The Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe is a great choice for splitting wood, thanks to its sharp and durable blade. This axe has a unique design that includes a larger head and a longer handle, which makes it easier to split larger logs with less effort.
One of the standout features of this axe is its handle, which is made from a durable and lightweight material called FiberComp. This material is designed to be strong and durable, yet lightweight, making it easy to use for extended periods without causing fatigue.
The Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe also has a low-friction blade coating that helps to reduce the amount of effort required to split wood. Additionally, this axe comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident in its quality and durability.
7. Estwing Camper’s Axe
The Estwing Camper’s Axe is a versatile and durable axe that’s designed for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. This axe has a durable and sharp head made from high-quality steel, which makes it ideal for chopping and splitting wood.
One of the standout features of this axe is its handle, which is made from a single piece of American steel and is designed to be durable and comfortable. The handle has a shock-resistant grip that helps to reduce the impact of shock and vibrations when you’re chopping, making it easier on your hands and arms.
The Estwing Camper’s Axe is also lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around when you’re out in the woods. Additionally, this axe comes with a leather sheath that helps to protect the blade when it’s not in use.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing a felling axe, there are many factors to consider, including the blade material, handle design, weight, and warranty. The Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe, Husqvarna Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe, Helko Werk Black Forest Woodworker Axe, Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe, Council Tool Velvicut Hudson Bay Axe, Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe, and Estwing Camper’s Axe are all excellent choices for different woodcutting tasks.
Ultimately, the best felling axe for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors like the type of wood you’ll be cutting, the frequency of use, and your personal comfort when using different handle designs. With the right felling axe in hand, you’ll be able to tackle any woodcutting project with ease and precision.