@@moorshound3243 it will, hickory handles will never compare to a fiskars handle in durability, 1 hard overstrike and thats it. Your just too afraid to move on and admit the new age design handles are better.
I came here because I love the Fiskar. So much that my Maul goes largely unused and I'm about to convert the other axes into vikings axes lmfao. I feel no vibration gloves from the Fiskar. Some people just can't get the fiberglass out of their heads I guess.
I have a Fiskars and I love it. I would be very surprised if anyone is able to break that handle unintentionally, and its a great splitter. Easy on the arms because of the reduced weight of the handle. Try it, trust me.
Just an FYI, we had one where the head came off after swinging it a lot. You might want to get a traditional head, as I have really never had a traditional head come off
Kyle Nelson we had it for 8 years, and it split about 10 cores of wood a season. So it got a lot of use. It also went on camp trips and was used for basic splitting for outside fires. So it got a lot of mileage, but was disappointing to have it come apart and not be able to repair it. This is why I would just recommend a regular axe that you can put a new handle on, and not get as much shock out of each stroke made. Nothing against fiskars, but they just don’t hold up in the long run
I have had a fiskars splitting axe I bought 20 years ago. I have run over it with equipment, the handle bends but never broke. The steel has never chipped rolled or become disfigured. It is also lighter than most other axes allowing you to swing it for longer periods, and it is balanced in a way that you can produce more energy meaning less swings to split a bolt of wood. Your opinion is yours, but I split wood for a living spending about 30 hrs a week doing it with a fiskars.
I enjoyed your video. That said, I was surprised to see you dismiss the Fiskars axe out of hand. This is my favorite axe for splitting firewood. I should say that I am in the Carolinas and burn hard wood, such as oak, hickory, locust and the it-will-make-you-mad-as-hell-trying-to-split Liquidambar styraciflua or sweetgum. I usually avoid that one unless it just comes my way. Also, I don't do much chopping with with an axe anymore. Fiskars does make a chopping axe that I use occasionally to limb a tree once it is on the ground, and it does a great job. I tend to use a chainsaw for any crosscut work. Having spent a good portion of my life swinging an axe I was immensely pleased when I wrapped my hands around a Fiskars splitting axe, and I love the handle. Here's why: It is almost impossible to break that handle, and because of that, I never again have to worry about the head of the axe flying off. Notice I said "almost impossible." It's like I told Fiskars when I asked them to replace an axe, which they did, I have two boys that can, I believe, break almost anything. So if you ever have anything that just has to be broke, give me a call, and I'll send my boys. To be sure, the boys only managed to take a good sized chip out of the end of the handle and that after much effort I'm sure. It was right after that that Fiskars improved the already mostly indestructible handle. I haven't used many of the axes you talk about. So I don't have the diversity of use that you have, but I did want to put in a good word for the Fiskars. And if I couldn't use a chainsaw I would be looking more closely at the axes you suggest. In fact, curiosity is eating away at me as I type this. Thanks for the video.
Last year at age 66, and weighing in at 140 lbs. I split 6 cords of firewood with my 8 year old abused Fiskars. At somewhere around the forth cord, I took a couple of swipes with the file across the blade for the first time ever, after averaging 3 1/2 cords split per year in the first 7 years I had it. I've overshot the head at least 20 times since I've had it, and I'm always amazed that there's been no damage to the handle. Not only will I never own another slitting maul, but I'll never need another.
Fiskars axes and splitters are AMAZING! Im terrible for breaking handles, have never toasted one of these. In fact, I broke a bone in my hand, handle held up fine. If you are getting vibe through a handle, try applying some grip, that's weaksauce
I love how his reason for not liking the fiskars is always because you can’t replace the handle, yet he likes the estwing.... which you also can’t replace the handle on..
First axe I used was a Fiskars X27 splitting axe that I purchased. I'm therefore well aware that I have nothing to which I can compare it. That said, the X27 is light, strong and durable. Critically, it is very effective at splitting wood. Whether it be soft or hard, green or dry, large or small, knotty or clean, I have never experienced any undue or excessive vibration whilst splitting. The axe works and I don't care what's it's made from. Subsequently I bought the Fiskars brush axe and small hatchet and I can't fault those either. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the X27. Good luck and best wishes to you all.😀👍
I have been using my fiskars for about 6 years now....I love it. I split probably about 5 cords a year with it. I am not sure what vibration you are talking about. One thing I will agree with about the fiskars is that it is a fairly soft metal...I am sharpening it quite often....but it also takes an edge much easier than most of my other axes do, so it really isn’t much of a problem.
I love my Estwing camp axe I've split over 5 cords of hickory and fell 20 or so good sized trees (hickory,oak, cottonwood and mesquite). No problems with vibration. Takes and holds an edge very well and comes with a great sheath
The hatchet is awesome, the estwing is good as a truck axe though not the greatest cutter As far as lifespan I still have sagar chemical axes from the 30’s in use
Estwing was good back then. I recently bought a Fireside friend that distorted hitting a splitting wedge. Estwing said that was abuse. Will never buy another new Estwing product.
I gotta agree with every word in the video regarding estwing hammers and axe's. I've owned both have actually USED the tools. Never again, lesson learned.
Great encouragement! My second son expressed interest, so I shot right out there and bought the Council Tool Boys Axe (and the Truper Boys Axe for about $12 less for comparison). I got the CT axe in already. Very rough grind. I spent
I would give Fiskars a higher rating. The discontinued 28" super maul works great for a $35 axe. The handle has a lifetime warranty even though they are pretty much unbreakable. With that all said, I would like to get my hands on a Gransfors.
i broke a handle on my fiskars. i mean, it shattered in three places and i was splitting red oak, which is very straight grained and easy to split. the axehead is now useless, though i suppose i could throw it at someone in self defense....
Indus S I broke mine trying to use it as a hammer driving in wedges and beating the heck out of the handle... it cracked... two days later another fiskers was on my door step without any cost to me
Fiskars axes have a warranty. They also have an anti breaking design for over swing. I have one and i'm very satisfied. They also have a sharpener for sale for under $10 which also work great.
Even though it's 6 yrs old, it's still a very useful video! Sitting here sipping my morning coffee pondering on what else I'll need to go to the backwoods and survive in the near future, and a GOOD axe is what I'm missing.
I've never seen a fiskars axe break from normal use. And the steel they use, I actually like that too. Makes for quick touchups in the field and they take a razor edge. The Scandi style of grind they use makes it even easier, especially for the less learned sharpener
Glad to see you've got a good opinion of the Estwing. I've used it to cut fallen limbs at my parents' house and it'll easily cut through branches 2-3 inches in diameter with relatively little effort. The limb I was cutting was silver maple, so I'm not sure how hard of a branch that was. It was pretty green as well.
gotta say that one of the biggest knocks against Fiskars axes is that the steel is soft and the factory edge rolls very easily. The first thing I did with my fiskars was thin the edge out and convex it using my worksharp. I finished with a 20 degree microbevel and out cuts much better and can take the damage. It's seriously the best axe I could find at the price. At least it cuts the best out of all of them
Bought a Fiskars this fall. Awesome axe for splitting wood. Split 6 cords of pine in 2 weekends, much faster and easier than the old splitting maul. After 6 cords, not one mark in the cutting edge. It does not stick in the wood like the traditionals do. Seems there is a little bias in this video along with the other videos you have done on splitting mauls and axes.
Thank you for the comprehensive review. I took what you said, found the Council Tools Boy's Axe for $29.92 shipped to my door and bought one for my daughter and granddaughter to use. Their axe needs are minimal but they need something decent and something they will be able to control. The other contended was the Husqvarna but form watching your review I could see the Council Boy's Axe was probably all the axe they were ever going to need. Thanks again !!!
BIG Thank you Mr Wranglerstar for this video!! Received my Council Tool boys axe today. This replaces our 3rd box-store felling size axe with a very loose head. I like this boys axe size & weight - perfect for my Colorado foothill's residential needs. I paid up for their US Forest Service model, and am very pleased. It measures 27.5" total length & just under a 4" blade. It's sharp enough, but has lots of ridges & burs in the blade's edge . We'll give her some stone work to clean up that edge - and she's good-to-go. The handle's a nice clear 'n straight hickory, with NO finish to strip - Whoo Rahh!!
I’ve used Estwing an Fisgars for canoeing an general camping work. Fisgars are by far better tool due to the steel used, less repetitive strain from usage. Stay far sharper for longer, less time sharpening, I’ve yet to have met some one who has had a problem with “ roll” on the cutting edge, therefore safer in the long run. Just my humble experience over 10yrs. Thanks for sharing Paul 23.04 gmt Uk cheers
I have every fiskars axe and hatchet you can buy and they all are very durable very sharp and have done well by me very good purchase with a lifetime warranty!!!!
@@Mestaritopg Fiskars are amazing, and also they come with a lifetime warranty on the off chance you do break it somehow. Though you have to be really trying to break it. I'm pretty small and still able to split wood with the 28" Fiskar we have, and it has no to little vibration.
@TheLawDemon this is true, but they make good kindling splitters or door stops! lol, I have broken 3 of their products, and along with the fiberglass handles and other plastic handled axes, I have chosen to only by wood handled yard tools, this way after they brake they can be rehung, and the handles can (depending on the brake) be re-used in some way, ax handle to hatchet, or boys ax, I have done this several times!
I have a husky splitting axe I picked up at home Depot for 23 bucks about a year ago, I sanded down the handle and had to sharpen it because it came as dull as a dinner plate but it's a great axe for the cost. A year of hard work, and lots of overswing the handle has taken a beating, crushed in and lost about 5 cm of wood but the head has never come loose and the handle is still very strong and usable so I just Paracord wrapped it and coated that in a thin layer of silicone and it's still going strong. I think it'll probably take another 2 years of hard use before I even need to replace the handle. Would definetly recommend. Again, it does come with a coated big thick handle, but about an hr work into it I made mine perfect. Would def recommend for a cheap axe
Council Tool is my favourite axes. Made here in NC. I have had the boys axe and the camping axe for years and love both of them. They are easy to sharpen and hold up well.
I was doing some paperwork and wanted some soothing Wranglerstar content in the background. I glanced over and saw the Truper axe from the Bailey's webpage. I didn't know of Bailey's when I saw this video years ago, but they are a family owned business just 35 miles south of me. I installed a complete Kimball-Midwest hydraulic crimper and fitting system for them a couple weeks ago and it looks fantastic. I cannot speak more highly of Bailey's and the folks there in Woodland, CA. Thank you, Cody. And may God bless you and your family. Happy belated Thanksgiving 2021.
There is room in the hollow handle of the fiskars for a sharpening tool., You could tie it secure with the strap. Fiskars looks like a good option for hiking due to it's light weight.
Purchased the Council Boys Axe. Great grain orientation on handle and no color. Just white Hickory, maybe I got lucky or Council has stepped up their Quality Control. I have used it a few times and was very pleased. Took and holds a great edge. I am Very Pleased! It's a great little axe and I find I use it more often than I thought. I have found myself just leaving the hatchet in the truck and grabbing my Felling and Boys axes. Thank you for the tip Mr. WS. Wish all the best to you and your family.
I have watched all of your axe vids. Love them all. I recently purchased a Husqvarna carpenters axe. You have recommended this brand on a few vids. I absolutely love it! Thank you for all your help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Est wing hammers are good for form carpenters the flat part of the handle leading up to the head can be used to clean the form boards. Whn I framed i used the vaughn california framer very well balanced and a pleasure to swing.
Truper is a Mexican brand, I’m from Mexico. Truper is now one of the biggest construction tool companies in the world. I’d recommend their axes, you get American hickory handles and the steel is produced here, they’re not Chinese made. They don’t come with a scary sharp edge but 15 minutes with a file and a stone will get you a really good axe with a scary sharp edge for the price. They do pay attention to grain orientation and heads are hung properly.
I agree with Cody on the Fiskars axes. This coming from a Finn too. The new Fiskars stuff is now mainly made in China and the quality has gone WAY down. I have older gear that was still made in Finland and it is fantastic. Bruks would go the same way if they ever shipped manufacturing to China. Too bad that much of the Chinese manufactured stuff is complete garbage. One good thing is it allows us to send a clear message to companies that we want made in the US/Canada.
You are so right. It disapoints me to buy something I THOUGHT was made here or Sweeden or Germany, etc... to find out it's stamped " Made in China" Heck, even RedWing boots are made in China or Mexico.
Nice video, but I have to say, I love my Fiskars axe. Split wood and chopped up logs with it for four seasons. I abused the hell out of it, even chipping the blade in several spots and have NEVER sharpened it. Yet my Fiskars axe still cuts better than any big box or small hardware store ax I have ever used (and some of those ones I even sharpened, which did make them sharper, but probably not has sharp as someone who really knows how to sharpen tools well). Can't say how well it stacks up to the higher end axes since I have never used one, but in my opinion, Fiskar axes destroy typical big box store axes.
Well done Cody,, videos less than 12 mins,, that's the only thing that put me off your videos, I learnt an awful lot from you over the past few years♥️ which I am very grateful to you for and you're Internet connection,, for not letting you make longer videos,, even judge Judy 🤣 has split her videos into shorter sections and has more viewers, it's not the same watching 20 X 4 minute videos as deciding to watch a whole 80mins. Difficult to explain myself.. I just watched the first wrangler star video of 4'28 minutes,, I was so happy to see it. I hope my comments don't offend you and helps you have more viewers. I must have watched about 800hrs of your videos at least, I'd just prefer to do it in shorter doses,, thanks Cody + Mrs W
Is extremely easy to go to about any flea market or auction and find a very nice high quality older vintage axe for $10 or so. I've bought many for $5 Look for the older Plumb, Kelly's, or Collins though others are nice too. Look for heads with no damage and good handles.
I'm starting to get into axes, knives, and multi-tools. So far I've bought a Ludell 28 inch axe before watching this video. Too bad I didn't see this video before I bought that Ludell axe. It's medium to low quality. Needs A LOT of filing on the blade. Very dull, but I'll get it done eventually. I've decided to step it up a notch and bought a Gransfors Bruks American Felling Axe. Can't wait for it to come!
How about Plumb Axes? I have an old axe called a Rocket Camp axe. It has a curved fiberglass & steel handle. I think it may have been a True Temper. Bear in mind, the late Daddy Burgin took a file and a stone to all the axes, and made them shave ready. He went to work for a USDA survey crew, and as a newbie they left him alone out at an old Kaiser Jeep, filled with tools. He sharpened all the axes, and one of the surveyors almost sliced off a finger, and told him to go "chop some dirt" and dull those axes down to a slightly safer lever. We got used to Jack's cutting tools, and would go around warning each other, "Jack had the Gerber Stone, and the Norton Stones, and the water stones out, so be careful with anything that cuts. Don't dump the knives into the sink, and if you drop one in don't try to find it.
Truper makes pretty good axes for a decent price and is the brand most available in Mexico (most of their tools are made in Mexico). But they do require a little bit of filing to get a good edge
I bought the miners axe last year for a wedge setter. It's heavy with a shorter handle. I did NOT buy it for anything else, however, you can put an edge on it just like you would your other axes. And because of the weight, it's not bad for large roots.
I've tried the wood handled axes. My nephews always seem to end up destroying the handles after a while. I now only buy Fiskars which you can find at Walmart and Home Depot. I ordered the Fiskars Maul from Amazon a few years ago. I have about 4 Fiskars axes. A hatchet which is a little light. A chopper, a chopper splitter combo, and a medium weight mual. All are razor sharp. I bought the Fiskars sharpener for about 10 dollars and it is easy to keep them all razor shaving sharp. I use them to cut mesquite and oak wood and they each do a fantastic job. I doubt if I have more than 180 dollars total invested in Fiskars products. There is no need to spend more IMHO... And in 8 years I have yet to have a handle broken. I carry my favorite axe (Fiskars chopper/splitter) under the back seat of my pickup. A few years ago at a friends party we needed to chop some wood to keep the fire going. I grabbed my ax out of my truck and handed it to my friend who proceeded to handed it to another guy who could not split wood to save his life. I watched as every other swing he went long and hit the log with the plastic handle. I was going to stop him but instead I wanted to see what kind of abuse the ax could take. I think his intent was to break the axe. He wore himself out and did not succeed. I'm not an axe snob but I am impressed when the simple things work the best.... I now give these Fiskars axes away as presents to family and friends who care about such things....
I recently purchased the Council Jersy Pattern Axe, and I love it! I had to file a better edge on it, and clean it up with my sharpening puck, but it is VERY sharp now. The grain orientation was literally perfect, but that can vary I'm sure. Of course it's not going to be as good as my Gransfors Bruks SFA, just because of the profile, but you can't beat the price.
Thanks Cody. I'm looking for a small ax for my 6 year old as he starts cub scouting. This video series is just want I needed. We're actually going camping tonight, but this information will help as I plan out the next trip :) Thank you again and keep up the good work.
Fiskars has life time warranty though. I received a replacement in the mail just a few days after I broke my handle. I split about 5 cords of elm before it broke.
Have been using the same Fiskars for over 10years now. And its been used A LOT. Dont really care if I have to buy a new one when it breaks, because it doesnt seem to do so. :)
My son in law bought an axe from HOME Depot and after a years work it had chunks missing from it. It took me quite a while with my angle grinder do grind away the missing parts of the bit. The metal was so poor I did not even put one of my hockey pucks to it - aground edge was enough on that brittle POS.
i tell you i have a truper hatchet and not, it didnt come very sharp but after abit of work, i got it razor sharp. It has a very nice profile and fairly good grain orientation. i think it cost me 15 bucks. i sure am happy with it.
Of all my life using axes and hatchets , from True Temper in the old days to my first and second Estwing , a lot of vibration through both of them, the axe will glance quite a bit off the wood, way too long a blade to split... However , when i bought my first Fiskars, i never look back at any other axe.. The blade is not too deep where it won't split, i sharpen using a diamond stone and all 4 i own have good steel, run a stone over any steel and it don't take long to find out what you have.. I was a little set back by the fiberglass hollow handle, but the weight is where you need it to work with , in the head.. The Finish know how to build tools.. If you break the handle off, not to worry , you will get a new replacement axe ... As i live in the pacific northwest , i have not heard of one Fiskars axe that broke.. Put it this way , i have not swung any other tool i like better..
@@bryanphilyaw1814 I own a Fiskars maul and it's 9 years old now.. I like everything about in design as a splitting tool.. I've tried other tools when out splitting wood with other fellows and my Fiskars maul still makes every swing count for results.. Fiskars Has been the best splitting tool I've owned in 76.. years..
I have the Estwing campers axe. had it for 5 years. has done me justice on many camping/hiking adventures. even used it for defense on o e trip. just my 2 cents on that brand.
Lots of fiskars nut huggers on here. I also don’t care for the vibrations. But it is a good temperate weather option. I say that because you get down Part freezing and the handles will shatter.
For years I used a standard 8 lb maul solo and with wedges. I tried and did not like the Chopper 1. From 2014-2018 I much preferred the Fiskars 36 inch X-27. In 2018 I switched to the new Fiskars iso-core 8 lb maul which seemed 50% better than the X-27. At 61 years old, I still prefer the Fiskars iso-core. If the wood is too tuff, I use the iso-core sledge side with wedges. Hopefully not soon, but some day when I have too, I will switch over to a motor driven splitter... for now I love the exercise...
I have an x27 and was at first skeptical. Have had it 7 years and have split many cords of hardwood. Ive been told when they break, IF THEY BREAK send a photo to Fiskars and they’ll send you a new one.
Just shows you each to the own,ave spent 10years drywalling until we got hilti screw guns.The estwing vibration wise/tennis elbow was more comfortable than most claw hammers n axes
Thanks for the video man. I've been looking to buy a couple new axes and this video helped me out a lot. I bought these three axes. Council Tool 28" 2.25lb Boy's Axe, Council Tool 32" 3.5lb Jersey Axe and the Cold Steel Trail Boss. I almost went with the 36" Dayton that you showed but I like a shorter handle on my axes as I pack mine out on backpacking trips and the Dayton has a straight handle opposed to the Curved Handle on the Jersey axe. And yes I will carry the 3.5lb miles into the backcountry. I am the exact opposite of a ultralight backpacker lol. I've been using a 24" 2.25lb Stansport that works but isn't very nice. I picked it up for $20, couldn't pass it up for that price. I plan on getting the 26" Estwing too, I'm fond of the Estwing as well, they'll last forever. I've had one of there 14" Hatchets for awhile and it works very well. Thanks again Cody!
Good stuff. I like the fifty dollar limit, not because it's a concern in itself but because it elicits more from you that helps beginners learn about axe fundamentals. I'm one of three thousand now. Please, please give us the same for splitting.
I just restored my 26' Estwing that I use heavily where I historically didn't give her a lot of TLC. I brought it back to brand new and probably sharper than new. Now that I took the time to restore it, I am going to baby it now 🤣. It is an excellent axe but it should be treated as one of the tools in your shed. For big pieces, it is a little frustrating at times where it will really get stuck in there. So it is a good axe but splitting surface is most likely too long for really big pieces. But if you are skilled enough and have other tools with you, you can managed your wood splitting with just this one axe. As far as quality, it will last you a lifetime.
i was skeptical buyin the fiskars but its great for splitting firewood.knotty stringy wood not so much but thats what a heavy maul is for.i love the reduced weight.ive never had any vibration issues.im goin on 5yrs havin mine splittin firewood with no issues.
I got a husky axe for free from neighbor who moved. It is a cheaper knock off a fiskars, works great compared my old axe, has rubber cushion wrapped in handle, and has no question ask lifetime warranty at home Depot if breaks. I can see why would like wood handles if economy collapses and if stores close, and can fix the axe yourself
I broke two axes last night. I've had 1 for > 20 years and it had been left out too many times. It is an old double bit USFS axe that my dad handed down to me and just met a hard piece of oak that did it in. The other was some random axe that came with the house and had a handle made of balsa... Once they both broke I grabbed the Fiskars and split wood without worrying about the handle, should have grabbed it first.
The Fiskars I appreciate since they have a no questions asked lifetime guarantee. You have to work harder to keep the edge good and sharp, but I like them. Not sure what you are talking about handle vibration though. I've used this for years, and never had a complication with vibration.
Oh, the orientation of the axe head and the handle are a littl different too. The CT looks like 90 degrees sorta, and the Truper like 105 degrees. Not sure which is the better orientation, and if the Truper was mounted on the handle correctly or not. Also, as is, with the thick handle and a slightly thicker axe head, the Truper is about 3-5 ounces heavier than the CT. Both are the Boys axe and roughly the same length.
I loved the fisker axe and boy I have put it to the test I've used a variety of different axes. The fisker axe is still working for me and the handle has held up to the abuse that comes from use. I have to disagree with you on this one.
That's funny. My dad always swears by his fiskars collection. he doesn't say they make best axes under 50$, he always says they make the best axes, period. Well, we're not lumberjacks, maybe, but we do have a rather big land, which sometimes needs a tree or two to be chopped, and we always chop our own firewood for our home, so it's not like we're not using our axes. Of course, not to mention camping, where we always like to have a fireplace going. We bought a fiskars small hatchet I believe around 13-15 years ago, then we bought their big splitting axe that is shown in the video about 5 years ago, and about 3 years ago we also bought their long-handle branch trimmers (the ones that can cut down branches up to 2'' in diameter in one pull.) They have never broken on us, not yet at least. and sometimes we like to try and break them, often using them as wedges, trying to split some really dense wood, or using the trimmer for branches that a just a bit too big. We're also not professionals, and I have done almost all my chopping on them, so they have probably seen hundreds, if not thousands of overswings. So, sometimes, after watching videos like Wranglerstar's, I look at the big dogs in the industry, Gränsfors Bruk and such, and I think of buying an axe from them. But then I look at our fiskars axes and think to myself "Do I really need a 150$ axe, when these ones have never failed us?" I mean, my opinion may be not as well regarded as of a professional in the industry, I just wanted to share my thoughts on fiskars, because I'm seeing quite a bit of negativity towards them, for reasons I do not really understand.
I like the idea of the having a truper, or home depot axe for a beater or an axe for trail work. but for woodworking I love getting old heads from eBay or antique shops, and fixing them up
Thank you for putting this video up it really did help me buy the right axe for what I use them for. I went with the council tools 2 1/4 pound boys axe to build my log cabin in the woods with my best friend. Again thanks and keep on doing what your doing man it's really helpful.
Personally, I love my sog base camp axe. I bought it on sale from strike zone and it is still sharp after dozens of camping trips. I haven't ever had to use a hammer with it for splitting due to it's sharpness.
Fiskars have a lifetime replacement warranty. I've never noticed any vibration on the handle to be honest. I've used those doing clear cut operations for a number of years now. the edge needs to be tended to regularly which does require more work to keep a good edge on. I have found it to be really useful over the long haul. I've only ever seen one of mine broken, and Fiskars said they'd never seen it break like that worldwide. My friend...I swear he can break anything in his hands.
lol your Fiskars review said it was superior to the 7 pound maul. split better. You didn't have a problem with the feel and liked the flair at the end. Then you went into the "A man needs to have a hickory handle. The hickory handle is the thing with me. Oh today, to use plastic is a pox." But you started the review saying "Fiskars split better than my maul."
As a fellow firefighter, would you recommend stripping the red paint off more of the axe heads on the Council Tool axes to carry on the engines and trucks? The paint, to me, seems like something that will bind the axe, especially when cutting a roof with multiple layers of asphalt shingles (because most of us don't strip the shingles first... it takes too much time).
I don't know where I heard it but the best fit for an axe to a person is to hold the handle just under the head and the butt of the handle should touch your arm pit. Having an axe within that range is supposed to be more ergonomically and effective. I have a council tools boys axe and it fits me perfectly and I love it even though it has flaws..
You don't need to replace the Fiskars axes... they last forever, and if they would brake you have really good guarantee :-) Greetings from Finland
@@moorshound3243 it will, hickory handles will never compare to a fiskars handle in durability, 1 hard overstrike and thats it. Your just too afraid to move on and admit the new age design handles are better.
I have to say, I'm not a huge fan of fiskars axes. They aren't bad tools or anything, but I'm just not crazy about the plastic handles.
I came here because I love the Fiskar. So much that my Maul goes largely unused and I'm about to convert the other axes into vikings axes lmfao. I feel no vibration gloves from the Fiskar. Some people just can't get the fiberglass out of their heads I guess.
Greetings from West Virginia I have two Fiskers axes and I love them they are indestructible I heat with wood only so I use them often
Agree totally! I have two and they never break, unlike wood
I have a Fiskars and I love it. I would be very surprised if anyone is able to break that handle unintentionally, and its a great splitter. Easy on the arms because of the reduced weight of the handle. Try it, trust me.
It's personal preference, I also dislike fiskars, I wanted to like it.
thanks for the rec!
Just an FYI, we had one where the head came off after swinging it a lot. You might want to get a traditional head, as I have really never had a traditional head come off
Kyle Nelson we had it for 8 years, and it split about 10 cores of wood a season. So it got a lot of use. It also went on camp trips and was used for basic splitting for outside fires. So it got a lot of mileage, but was disappointing to have it come apart and not be able to repair it. This is why I would just recommend a regular axe that you can put a new handle on, and not get as much shock out of each stroke made. Nothing against fiskars, but they just don’t hold up in the long run
nope don't like em. but you do your thing dude.
I have had a fiskars splitting axe I bought 20 years ago. I have run over it with equipment, the handle bends but never broke. The steel has never chipped rolled or become disfigured. It is also lighter than most other axes allowing you to swing it for longer periods, and it is balanced in a way that you can produce more energy meaning less swings to split a bolt of wood. Your opinion is yours, but I split wood for a living spending about 30 hrs a week doing it with a fiskars.
I enjoyed your video. That said, I was surprised to see you dismiss the Fiskars axe out of hand. This is my favorite axe for splitting firewood. I should say that I am in the Carolinas and burn hard wood, such as oak, hickory, locust and the it-will-make-you-mad-as-hell-trying-to-split Liquidambar styraciflua or sweetgum. I usually avoid that one unless it just comes my way. Also, I don't do much chopping with with an axe anymore. Fiskars does make a chopping axe that I use occasionally to limb a tree once it is on the ground, and it does a great job. I tend to use a chainsaw for any crosscut work.
Having spent a good portion of my life swinging an axe I was immensely pleased when I wrapped my hands around a Fiskars splitting axe, and I love the handle. Here's why: It is almost impossible to break that handle, and because of that, I never again have to worry about the head of the axe flying off. Notice I said "almost impossible." It's like I told Fiskars when I asked them to replace an axe, which they did, I have two boys that can, I believe, break almost anything. So if you ever have anything that just has to be broke, give me a call, and I'll send my boys. To be sure, the boys only managed to take a good sized chip out of the end of the handle and that after much effort I'm sure. It was right after that that Fiskars improved the already mostly indestructible handle.
I haven't used many of the axes you talk about. So I don't have the diversity of use that you have, but I did want to put in a good word for the Fiskars. And if I couldn't use a chainsaw I would be looking more closely at the axes you suggest. In fact, curiosity is eating away at me as I type this.
Thanks for the video.
Last year at age 66, and weighing in at 140 lbs. I split 6 cords of firewood with my 8 year old abused Fiskars. At somewhere around the forth cord, I took a couple of swipes with the file across the blade for the first time ever, after averaging 3 1/2 cords split per year in the first 7 years I had it. I've overshot the head at least 20 times since I've had it, and I'm always amazed that there's been no damage to the handle. Not only will I never own another slitting maul, but I'll never need another.
I've had my Fiskar X21 for 10 tears and never had a problem using it. Hell, I've never had to sharpen it. Best axe I've ever owned.
Fiskars axes and splitters are AMAZING! Im terrible for breaking handles, have never toasted one of these. In fact, I broke a bone in my hand, handle held up fine. If you are getting vibe through a handle, try applying some grip, that's weaksauce
no shock but it brakes a bone in your hand? lmao
@TheLawDemon sounds good but doesnt always apply
I love how his reason for not liking the fiskars is always because you can’t replace the handle, yet he likes the estwing.... which you also can’t replace the handle on..
It's not American made so he doesn't like it.
Ignore all that. Replace the handle... why? It’s got a life time warranty. Break it? Get a free replacement.
And they are cheap and last forever.
when you wear out an estwing you just retire
I have the estwing and it is full tang so you probably won't break the handle. I also have the fiskars though and I much prefer it over the estwing.
First axe I used was a Fiskars X27 splitting axe that I purchased.
I'm therefore well aware that I have nothing to which I can compare it.
That said, the X27 is light, strong and durable.
Critically, it is very effective at splitting wood.
Whether it be soft or hard, green or dry, large or small, knotty or clean, I have never experienced any undue or excessive vibration whilst splitting.
The axe works and I don't care what's it's made from.
Subsequently I bought the Fiskars brush axe and small hatchet and I can't fault those either.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the X27.
Good luck and best wishes to you all.😀👍
I have been using my fiskars for about 6 years now....I love it.
I split probably about 5 cords a year with it. I am not sure what vibration you are talking about.
One thing I will agree with about the fiskars is that it is a fairly soft metal...I am sharpening it quite often....but it also takes an edge much easier than most of my other axes do, so it really isn’t much of a problem.
Just saying it takes an edge easier for the same reason it dulls quicker it is softer steel
I wonder if you could heat treat the cutting edge without hurting the handle 🤔
I love my Estwing camp axe I've split over 5 cords of hickory and fell 20 or so good sized trees (hickory,oak, cottonwood and mesquite). No problems with vibration. Takes and holds an edge very well and comes with a great sheath
Is it good for felling?
Estwing hands down. My father bought the shorter Estwing axe before I was born. I'm 36 and it's still going strong.
I agree great camp axe
The hatchet is awesome, the estwing is good as a truck axe though not the greatest cutter
As far as lifespan I still have sagar chemical axes from the 30’s in use
Estwing was good back then. I recently bought a Fireside friend that distorted hitting a splitting wedge. Estwing said that was abuse. Will never buy another new Estwing product.
I gotta agree with every word in the video regarding estwing hammers and axe's. I've owned both have actually USED the tools. Never again, lesson learned.
New Estwing is not as good. I had a fireside friend splitting maul that deformed its hammer end striking a splitting wedge and they would not cover it
Great encouragement! My second son expressed interest, so I shot right out there and bought the Council Tool Boys Axe (and the Truper Boys Axe for about $12 less for comparison). I got the CT axe in already. Very rough grind. I spent
I would give Fiskars a higher rating. The discontinued 28" super maul works great for a $35 axe. The handle has a lifetime warranty even though they are pretty much unbreakable. With that all said, I would like to get my hands on a Gransfors.
i broke a handle on my fiskars. i mean, it shattered in three places and i was splitting red oak, which is very straight grained and easy to split. the axehead is now useless, though i suppose i could throw it at someone in self defense....
G Hale Yeah but a broken handle won't help you in an emergency situation
i have a gransfors axe old antique no 35.00 but 235.00
Indus S I broke mine trying to use it as a hammer driving in wedges and beating the heck out of the handle... it cracked... two days later another fiskers was on my door step without any cost to me
Fiskars axes have a warranty. They also have an anti breaking design for over swing. I have one and i'm very satisfied. They also have a sharpener for sale for under $10 which also work great.
Even though it's 6 yrs old, it's still a very useful video! Sitting here sipping my morning coffee pondering on what else I'll need to go to the backwoods and survive in the near future, and a GOOD axe is what I'm missing.
I've never seen a fiskars axe break from normal use. And the steel they use, I actually like that too. Makes for quick touchups in the field and they take a razor edge. The Scandi style of grind they use makes it even easier, especially for the less learned sharpener
Glad to see you've got a good opinion of the Estwing. I've used it to cut fallen limbs at my parents' house and it'll easily cut through branches 2-3 inches in diameter with relatively little effort. The limb I was cutting was silver maple, so I'm not sure how hard of a branch that was. It was pretty green as well.
Yea I've been hand splitting with a fiskers 30" for over 10 years. One of the best decisions I've made. Still going strong.
gotta say that one of the biggest knocks against Fiskars axes is that the steel is soft and the factory edge rolls very easily. The first thing I did with my fiskars was thin the edge out and convex it using my worksharp. I finished with a 20 degree microbevel and out cuts much better and can take the damage. It's seriously the best axe I could find at the price. At least it cuts the best out of all of them
True i thought it was mild steel
Bought a Fiskars this fall. Awesome axe for splitting wood. Split 6 cords of pine in 2 weekends, much faster and easier than the old splitting maul. After 6 cords, not one mark in the cutting edge. It does not stick in the wood like the traditionals do. Seems there is a little bias in this video along with the other videos you have done on splitting mauls and axes.
Thank you for the comprehensive review. I took what you said, found the Council Tools Boy's Axe for $29.92 shipped to my door and bought one for my daughter and granddaughter to use. Their axe needs are minimal but they need something decent and something they will be able to control. The other contended was the Husqvarna but form watching your review I could see the Council Boy's Axe was probably all the axe they were ever going to need. Thanks again !!!
Great video...I love Fiskars axes, for the price. I don't notice any vibrations, and I've never had to sharpen mine yet.
BIG Thank you Mr Wranglerstar for this video!! Received my Council Tool boys axe today. This replaces our 3rd box-store felling size axe with a very loose head. I like this boys axe size & weight - perfect for my Colorado foothill's residential needs. I paid up for their US Forest Service model, and am very pleased. It measures 27.5" total length & just under a 4" blade. It's sharp enough, but has lots of ridges & burs in the blade's edge . We'll give her some stone work to clean up that edge - and she's good-to-go. The handle's a nice clear 'n straight hickory, with NO finish to strip - Whoo Rahh!!
I’ve used Estwing an Fisgars for canoeing an general camping work. Fisgars are by far better tool due to the steel used, less repetitive strain from usage. Stay far sharper for longer, less time sharpening, I’ve yet to have met some one who has had a problem with “ roll” on the cutting edge, therefore safer in the long run.
Just my humble experience over 10yrs.
Thanks for sharing
Paul 23.04 gmt Uk cheers
I have every fiskars axe and hatchet you can buy and they all are very durable very sharp and have done well by me very good purchase with a lifetime warranty!!!!
Uh I own a fiskars and their handles are hollow. literally never felt any vibration fromit
and Fiskars will never break down,I have tried to break up the arm but it is truly sustainable
can confirm, i have 2 fiskars axes and the only bad parts are found at the head.
@@Mestaritopg Fiskars are amazing, and also they come with a lifetime warranty on the off chance you do break it somehow.
Though you have to be really trying to break it. I'm pretty small and still able to split wood with the 28" Fiskar we have, and it has no to little vibration.
Why would you throw away and axe head just because you can't attach a new handle to it? Sounds like a waste of a split/wedge to me...
Smart man.
@TheLawDemon this is true, but they make good kindling splitters or door stops! lol, I have broken 3 of their products, and along with the fiberglass handles and other plastic handled axes, I have chosen to only by wood handled yard tools, this way after they brake they can be rehung, and the handles can (depending on the brake) be re-used in some way, ax handle to hatchet, or boys ax, I have done this several times!
@TheLawDemon I am going to take note of that, clever.
Carthago Delenda Est love the Sacred Heart!
You can also use it as a door stoper when you break the axe handle
"I like Estwing" YOU JUST SAID YOU DIDN'T LIKE HANDLES THAT COULDN'T BE REPLACED!!!! But I do still like Estwing.
I have a husky splitting axe I picked up at home Depot for 23 bucks about a year ago, I sanded down the handle and had to sharpen it because it came as dull as a dinner plate but it's a great axe for the cost. A year of hard work, and lots of overswing the handle has taken a beating, crushed in and lost about 5 cm of wood but the head has never come loose and the handle is still very strong and usable so I just Paracord wrapped it and coated that in a thin layer of silicone and it's still going strong. I think it'll probably take another 2 years of hard use before I even need to replace the handle. Would definetly recommend. Again, it does come with a coated big thick handle, but about an hr work into it I made mine perfect. Would def recommend for a cheap axe
I think the internet want's me to buy a new axe..
Council Tool is my favourite axes. Made here in NC. I have had the boys axe and the camping axe for years and love both of them. They are easy to sharpen and hold up well.
I was doing some paperwork and wanted some soothing Wranglerstar content in the background. I glanced over and saw the Truper axe from the Bailey's webpage. I didn't know of Bailey's when I saw this video years ago, but they are a family owned business just 35 miles south of me. I installed a complete Kimball-Midwest hydraulic crimper and fitting system for them a couple weeks ago and it looks fantastic. I cannot speak more highly of Bailey's and the folks there in Woodland, CA. Thank you, Cody. And may God bless you and your family. Happy belated Thanksgiving 2021.
I recently purchased a Velvicut Council Felling AX!! What a SUPER AX!!
Jeff Conti Great choice Jeff,
There is room in the hollow handle of the fiskars for a sharpening tool., You could tie it secure with the strap. Fiskars looks like a good option for hiking due to it's light weight.
Purchased the Council Boys Axe. Great grain orientation on handle and no color. Just white Hickory, maybe I got lucky or Council has stepped up their Quality Control. I have used it a few times and was very pleased. Took and holds a great edge. I am Very Pleased! It's a great little axe and I find I use it more often than I thought. I have found myself just leaving the hatchet in the truck and grabbing my Felling and Boys axes. Thank you for the tip Mr. WS. Wish all the best to you and your family.
+Scott Hill glad it helped. thanks!
I have watched all of your axe vids. Love them all. I recently purchased a Husqvarna carpenters axe. You have recommended this brand on a few vids.
I absolutely love it!
Thank you for all your help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Est wing hammers are good for form carpenters the flat part of the handle leading up to the head can be used to clean the form boards. Whn I framed i used the vaughn california framer very well balanced and a pleasure to swing.
I am actually glad for the shorter video lengths - it makes it easier to get some chores done, watch some more, break over - back to work, etc.
I've had my estwing for decades and its still good
Truper is a Mexican brand, I’m from Mexico. Truper is now one of the biggest construction tool companies in the world.
I’d recommend their axes, you get American hickory handles and the steel is produced here, they’re not Chinese made.
They don’t come with a scary sharp edge but 15 minutes with a file and a stone will get you a really good axe with a scary sharp edge for the price.
They do pay attention to grain orientation and heads are hung properly.
fiskar axes can be used as wedges when the handle breaks
I agree with Cody on the Fiskars axes. This coming from a Finn too. The new Fiskars stuff is now mainly made in China and the quality has gone WAY down. I have older gear that was still made in Finland and it is fantastic. Bruks would go the same way if they ever shipped manufacturing to China. Too bad that much of the Chinese manufactured stuff is complete garbage. One good thing is it allows us to send a clear message to companies that we want made in the US/Canada.
You are so right. It disapoints me to buy something I THOUGHT was made here or Sweeden or Germany, etc... to find out it's stamped " Made in China" Heck, even RedWing boots are made in China or Mexico.
You are so right. The older tools are wonderful. Built to stand the test of time.
Never tire of watching these videos, just got my GB 35" American felling axe! Thank you Tobias Thelin!
I am really digging the Fiskar axes. Eventhough I bought one from crappy tire it works great.
I have a Fiskars Hatchet and I have no vibration and the handles don't break you do not have to throw them out and they use g great Steel
Nice video, but I have to say, I love my Fiskars axe. Split wood and chopped up logs with it for four seasons. I abused the hell out of it, even chipping the blade in several spots and have NEVER sharpened it. Yet my Fiskars axe still cuts better than any big box or small hardware store ax I have ever used (and some of those ones I even sharpened, which did make them sharper, but probably not has sharp as someone who really knows how to sharpen tools well). Can't say how well it stacks up to the higher end axes since I have never used one, but in my opinion, Fiskar axes destroy typical big box store axes.
Well done Cody,, videos less than 12 mins,, that's the only thing that put me off your videos, I learnt an awful lot from you over the past few years♥️ which I am very grateful to you for and you're Internet connection,, for not letting you make longer videos,, even judge Judy 🤣 has split her videos into shorter sections and has more viewers, it's not the same watching 20 X 4 minute videos as deciding to watch a whole 80mins. Difficult to explain myself..
I just watched the first wrangler star video of 4'28 minutes,, I was so happy to see it.
I hope my comments don't offend you and helps you have more viewers.
I must have watched about 800hrs of your videos at least, I'd just prefer to do it in shorter doses,, thanks Cody + Mrs W
Is extremely easy to go to about any flea market or auction and find a very nice high quality older vintage axe for $10 or so. I've bought many for $5
Look for the older Plumb, Kelly's, or Collins though others are nice too. Look for heads with no damage and good handles.
I'm starting to get into axes, knives, and multi-tools. So far I've bought a Ludell 28 inch axe before watching this video. Too bad I didn't see this video before I bought that Ludell axe. It's medium to low quality. Needs A LOT of filing on the blade. Very dull, but I'll get it done eventually. I've decided to step it up a notch and bought a Gransfors Bruks American Felling Axe. Can't wait for it to come!
How about Plumb Axes? I have an old axe called a Rocket Camp axe. It has a curved fiberglass & steel handle. I think it may have been a True Temper. Bear in mind, the late Daddy Burgin took a file and a stone to all the axes, and made them shave ready. He went to work for a USDA survey crew, and as a newbie they left him alone out at an old Kaiser Jeep, filled with tools. He sharpened all the axes, and one of the surveyors almost sliced off a finger, and told him to go "chop some dirt" and dull those axes down to a slightly safer lever. We got used to Jack's cutting tools, and would go around warning each other, "Jack had the Gerber Stone, and the Norton Stones, and the water stones out, so be careful with anything that cuts. Don't dump the knives into the sink, and if you drop one in don't try to find it.
Truper makes pretty good axes for a decent price and is the brand most available in Mexico (most of their tools are made in Mexico). But they do require a little bit of filing to get a good edge
I bought the miners axe last year for a wedge setter. It's heavy with a shorter handle. I did NOT buy it for anything else, however, you can put an edge on it just like you would your other axes. And because of the weight, it's not bad for large roots.
I've tried the wood handled axes. My nephews always seem to end up destroying the handles after a while. I now only buy Fiskars which you can find at Walmart and Home Depot. I ordered the Fiskars Maul from Amazon a few years ago. I have about 4 Fiskars axes. A hatchet which is a little light. A chopper, a chopper splitter combo, and a medium weight mual. All are razor sharp. I bought the Fiskars sharpener for about 10 dollars and it is easy to keep them all razor shaving sharp. I use them to cut mesquite and oak wood and they each do a fantastic job. I doubt if I have more than 180 dollars total invested in Fiskars products. There is no need to spend more IMHO... And in 8 years I have yet to have a handle broken. I carry my favorite axe (Fiskars chopper/splitter) under the back seat of my pickup. A few years ago at a friends party we needed to chop some wood to keep the fire going. I grabbed my ax out of my truck and handed it to my friend who proceeded to handed it to another guy who could not split wood to save his life. I watched as every other swing he went long and hit the log with the plastic handle. I was going to stop him but instead I wanted to see what kind of abuse the ax could take. I think his intent was to break the axe. He wore himself out and did not succeed. I'm not an axe snob but I am impressed when the simple things work the best.... I now give these Fiskars axes away as presents to family and friends who care about such things....
If you get vibrations from plastic handle, you're not using it right. Just hold it properly when hitting hard.
Not sure about their axes, but you can't beat a Fiskars hatchet for the money.
I recently purchased the Council Jersy Pattern Axe, and I love it! I had to file a better edge on it, and clean it up with my sharpening puck, but it is VERY sharp now. The grain orientation was literally perfect, but that can vary I'm sure. Of course it's not going to be as good as my Gransfors Bruks SFA, just because of the profile, but you can't beat the price.
Thanks Cody. I'm looking for a small ax for my 6 year old as he starts cub scouting. This video series is just want I needed. We're actually going camping tonight, but this information will help as I plan out the next trip :) Thank you again and keep up the good work.
Fiskars has life time warranty though. I received a replacement in the mail just a few days after I broke my handle. I split about 5 cords of elm before it broke.
Have been using the same Fiskars for over 10years now. And its been used
A LOT. Dont really care if I have to buy a new one when it breaks,
because it doesnt seem to do so. :)
My son in law bought an axe from HOME Depot and after a years work it had chunks missing from it. It took me quite a while with my angle grinder do grind away the missing parts of the bit. The metal was so poor I did not even put one of my hockey pucks to it - aground edge was enough on that brittle POS.
I like buying an Axe, ductape, rope and a shovel at the same time and watching the reaction of the cashier. 😁
No tarp? Your trunk must be a bloody mess!
Haha. Good one!
🩸🩸🩸
I love it when you tell people that tell you how to make your videos to go make their own. Keep up the good.Thanks for sharing.
i tell you i have a truper hatchet and not, it didnt come very sharp but after abit of work, i got it razor sharp. It has a very nice profile and fairly good grain orientation. i think it cost me 15 bucks. i sure am happy with it.
I use a US98 Woodings-Verona Michigan single bit axe. 32" slim hickory handle. It is my favorite splitting axe and it only cost $35.00! USA made.
Of all my life using axes and hatchets , from True Temper in the old days to my first and second Estwing , a lot of vibration through both of them, the axe will glance quite a bit off the wood, way too long a blade to split... However , when i bought my first Fiskars, i never look back at any other axe.. The blade is not too deep where it won't split, i sharpen using a diamond stone and all 4 i own have good steel, run a stone over any steel and it don't take long to find out what you have..
I was a little set back by the fiberglass hollow handle, but the weight is where you need it to work with , in the head.. The Finish know how to build tools.. If you break the handle off, not to worry , you will get a new replacement axe ... As i live in the pacific northwest , i have not heard of one Fiskars axe that broke.. Put it this way , i have not swung any other tool i like better..
Agreed. Not sure if he was using a Fiskar or what. Fiskar maul is way better than Stihl maul and almost half the price.
@@bryanphilyaw1814 I own a Fiskars maul and it's 9 years old now..
I like everything about in design as a splitting tool..
I've tried other tools when out splitting wood with other fellows and my Fiskars maul still makes every swing count for results.. Fiskars Has been the best splitting tool I've owned in 76.. years..
@@normanmallory2055 Anybody that actually splits wood, knows how good the Fiskar's are. Period, point blank.
Thanks for the review Cody! Kobalt tools also makes a good axe for the price. American hickory handle, proper grain orientation, and quality steel.
wood trekker is GREAT!!!! been following him for a while, very knowledgeable.
I have the Estwing campers axe. had it for 5 years. has done me justice on many camping/hiking adventures. even used it for defense on o e trip.
just my 2 cents on that brand.
Lots of fiskars nut huggers on here. I also don’t care for the vibrations. But it is a good temperate weather option. I say that because you get down Part freezing and the handles will shatter.
For years I used a standard 8 lb maul solo and with wedges. I tried and did not like the Chopper 1. From 2014-2018 I much preferred the Fiskars 36 inch X-27. In 2018 I switched to the new Fiskars iso-core 8 lb maul which seemed 50% better than the X-27. At 61 years old, I still prefer the Fiskars iso-core. If the wood is too tuff, I use the iso-core sledge side with wedges. Hopefully not soon, but some day when I have too, I will switch over to a motor driven splitter... for now I love the exercise...
I like my fiskars. I stick it in a log and walk away. I come back to it and it's still ready to be used. The things been living outside for 2 winters
I have an x27 and was at first skeptical. Have had it 7 years and have split many cords of hardwood. Ive been told when they break, IF THEY BREAK send a photo to Fiskars and they’ll send you a new one.
Just shows you each to the own,ave spent 10years drywalling until we got hilti screw guns.The estwing vibration wise/tennis elbow was more comfortable than most claw hammers n axes
Thanks for the video man. I've been looking to buy a couple new axes and this video helped me out a lot. I bought these three axes. Council Tool 28" 2.25lb Boy's Axe, Council Tool 32" 3.5lb Jersey Axe and the Cold Steel Trail Boss. I almost went with the 36" Dayton that you showed but I like a shorter handle on my axes as I pack mine out on backpacking trips and the Dayton has a straight handle opposed to the Curved Handle on the Jersey axe. And yes I will carry the 3.5lb miles into the backcountry. I am the exact opposite of a ultralight backpacker lol. I've been using a 24" 2.25lb Stansport that works but isn't very nice. I picked it up for $20, couldn't pass it up for that price. I plan on getting the 26" Estwing too, I'm fond of the Estwing as well, they'll last forever. I've had one of there 14" Hatchets for awhile and it works very well. Thanks again Cody!
Good stuff. I like the fifty dollar limit, not because it's a concern in itself but because it elicits more from you that helps beginners learn about axe fundamentals. I'm one of three thousand now. Please, please give us the same for splitting.
I use the fiskars 8# maul and the Stihl splitter in tandem and i split wood super Quick...’
I just restored my 26' Estwing that I use heavily where I historically didn't give her a lot of TLC. I brought it back to brand new and probably sharper than new. Now that I took the time to restore it, I am going to baby it now 🤣. It is an excellent axe but it should be treated as one of the tools in your shed. For big pieces, it is a little frustrating at times where it will really get stuck in there. So it is a good axe but splitting surface is most likely too long for really big pieces. But if you are skilled enough and have other tools with you, you can managed your wood splitting with just this one axe.
As far as quality, it will last you a lifetime.
Love fiskars axes.no vibration.use almost daily.
got a Gerber camp axe for Christmas so far I love it curtain couple of pine roots and fat lighter...kinda amazed!
i was skeptical buyin the fiskars but its great for splitting firewood.knotty stringy wood not so much but thats what a heavy maul is for.i love the reduced weight.ive never had any vibration issues.im goin on 5yrs havin mine splittin firewood with no issues.
I got a husky axe for free from neighbor who moved. It is a cheaper knock off a fiskars, works great compared my old axe, has rubber cushion wrapped in handle, and has no question ask lifetime warranty at home Depot if breaks. I can see why would like wood handles if economy collapses and if stores close, and can fix the axe yourself
I broke two axes last night. I've had 1 for > 20 years and it had been left out too many times. It is an old double bit USFS axe that my dad handed down to me and just met a hard piece of oak that did it in. The other was some random axe that came with the house and had a handle made of balsa... Once they both broke I grabbed the Fiskars and split wood without worrying about the handle, should have grabbed it first.
The Fiskars I appreciate since they have a no questions asked lifetime guarantee. You have to work harder to keep the edge good and sharp, but I like them. Not sure what you are talking about handle vibration though. I've used this for years, and never had a complication with vibration.
Oh, the orientation of the axe head and the handle are a littl different too. The CT looks like 90 degrees sorta, and the Truper like 105 degrees. Not sure which is the better orientation, and if the Truper was mounted on the handle correctly or not. Also, as is, with the thick handle and a slightly thicker axe head, the Truper is about 3-5 ounces heavier than the CT. Both are the Boys axe and roughly the same length.
I loved the fisker axe and boy I have put it to the test I've used a variety of different axes. The fisker axe is still working for me and the handle has held up to the abuse that comes from use. I have to disagree with you on this one.
Thank you for the info, I was just thinking about buying a new axe.
That's funny. My dad always swears by his fiskars collection. he doesn't say they make best axes under 50$, he always says they make the best axes, period.
Well, we're not lumberjacks, maybe, but we do have a rather big land, which sometimes needs a tree or two to be chopped, and we always chop our own firewood for our home, so it's not like we're not using our axes. Of course, not to mention camping, where we always like to have a fireplace going.
We bought a fiskars small hatchet I believe around 13-15 years ago,
then we bought their big splitting axe that is shown in the video about 5 years ago, and about 3 years ago we also bought their long-handle branch trimmers (the ones that can cut down branches up to 2'' in diameter in one pull.)
They have never broken on us, not yet at least. and sometimes we like to try and break them, often using them as wedges, trying to split some really dense wood, or using the trimmer for branches that a just a bit too big. We're also not professionals, and I have done almost all my chopping on them, so they have probably seen hundreds, if not thousands of overswings.
So, sometimes, after watching videos like Wranglerstar's, I look at the big dogs in the industry, Gränsfors Bruk and such, and I think of buying an axe from them. But then I look at our fiskars axes and think to myself "Do I really need a 150$ axe, when these ones have never failed us?"
I mean, my opinion may be not as well regarded as of a professional in the industry, I just wanted to share my thoughts on fiskars, because I'm seeing quite a bit of negativity towards them, for reasons I do not really understand.
My fiskars axe had a whole load of logs dropped on it and it came out with maybe a couple scratches
estwings are awesome had mine for 3 years use it probably like once a week good amount of usage and it still serves me well
I like the idea of the having a truper, or home depot axe for a beater or an axe for trail work. but for woodworking I love getting old heads from eBay or antique shops, and fixing them up
Thank you for putting this video up it really did help me buy the right axe for what I use them for. I went with the council tools 2 1/4 pound boys axe to build my log cabin in the woods with my best friend. Again thanks and keep on doing what your doing man it's really helpful.
Personally, I love my sog base camp axe. I bought it on sale from strike zone and it is still sharp after dozens of camping trips. I haven't ever had to use a hammer with it for splitting due to it's sharpness.
The Fisk are handle doesn’t break. Wood does.
Fiskars have a lifetime replacement warranty. I've never noticed any vibration on the handle to be honest. I've used those doing clear cut operations for a number of years now. the edge needs to be tended to regularly which does require more work to keep a good edge on. I have found it to be really useful over the long haul. I've only ever seen one of mine broken, and Fiskars said they'd never seen it break like that worldwide. My friend...I swear he can break anything in his hands.
lol your Fiskars review said it was superior to the 7 pound maul. split better. You didn't have a problem with the feel and liked the flair at the end. Then you went into the "A man needs to have a hickory handle. The hickory handle is the thing with me. Oh today, to use plastic is a pox." But you started the review saying "Fiskars split better than my maul."
Love my Council Tool Dayton axe!
As a fellow firefighter, would you recommend stripping the red paint off more of the axe heads on the Council Tool axes to carry on the engines and trucks? The paint, to me, seems like something that will bind the axe, especially when cutting a roof with multiple layers of asphalt shingles (because most of us don't strip the shingles first... it takes too much time).
I don't know where I heard it but the best fit for an axe to a person is to hold the handle just under the head and the butt of the handle should touch your arm pit. Having an axe within that range is supposed to be more ergonomically and effective. I have a council tools boys axe and it fits me perfectly and I love it even though it has flaws..
Honestly never had a issue with my cold steel trail boss, the shovels are great to. Haven’t used any of there other products