Axes, Hatchets and Splitting Mauls

Thank you for purchasing an axe, hatchet, or splitting maul. We’ve put together some helpful information for getting started, especially for those who are new to these tools.

Looking After Axes, Hatchets and Splitting Mauls

Well cared for, a good axe will last a lifetime of more. We’ll discuss basic care and maintenance, enabling you to get the most from your new axe.

Care & Maintenance

High-quality axes are configured for the work they are designed for and come well sharpened. Well cared for, a good axe will last a lifetime or more.

Caring for an axe comes down to keeping it sharp, keeping it clean and rust-free and using it as intended.

Protect the edge by using the sheath when not in use.

Avoid embedded metal and hitting the ground to minimize nicks that are time consuming to file out. Leaving an axe out in the rain or laying it on the ground promotes rust. In the bush, lean it against a tree. Wipe it clean when the work is finished.

Any rust-inhibiting oil-based wax is suitable for both the head and the handle.

Sharpening

Routine sharpening will make your axe a pleasure to use and safer too. Only two simple tools are required: a flat file and a special round honing stone.

The file will do the bulk of the work, including removing small nicks. Hold the axe securely with the edge overhanging the bench. File away from the edge, sliding the file the length of the bevel. Remove the same amount from each side to keep the bevels equal. Follow the original shape of the bit.

For a finer edge, follow up with a round axe stone, first with the coarse side, then the finer side. Lubricate the stone appropriately: water for a water stone, and a light oil for carborundum or Arkansas stones. Focus the honing on the edge by holding the stone at slight angle. Move the stone along the edge in a circular fashion, turning the axe frequently to hone both edges. Watch your fingers.

Tips for Use

Mineral spirits or citrus solvent will remove built-up tree sap. Remove rust with steel wool, fine abrasive pad, or rust eraser. Tackle deeper rust with a steel brush. After cleaning, apply a rust-preventative oil/wax right away.

Safety Considerations

Always sheath your axe when not using it. Carry it parallel to the ground by gripping the handle close to the head with the cutting edge pointed down.

Never use an axe with a loose or split handle.