Gransfors Bruk takes a total environmental and ethical approach in how they produce their premium axes. They also have an unrelenting passion for handcrafting their axes and it shows. Thanks to Todd B for giving us his perspective on two of the axes in his collection. As you can tell, he is a fan of Gransfors Bruk!
Gransfors Bruk Scandinavian Forest Axe
You're likely here because you've heard the rumours, watched a few YouTube videos or have a crazy uncle that has gifted you a Scandinavian Forest Axe or Small Forest Axe. Well, you know - knowledge of this axe is of phenomenal benefit. Keep researching as this axe really is an amazing product and the internet doesn't lie. Its perfectly balanced, unbelievably crafted and backed by a 20 year guarantee. Gransfors says this is for limbing - but in reality it can take down and/or split a young forest. I've split, chopped and played with 6-8" diameter trunks while camping. For me the real difference between the need for the Scandinavian Forest Axe (3.5" face, 25" handle + 2.6 lb weight) and the Small Forest Axe (3.25" face, 19" handle + 2 lb head) is the individual's height. Both are very similar and unbelievably well made. And if a Zombie Apocalypse occurred tomorrow - you'd not be disappointed by a Gransfors Bruk Forest Axe as your main defense. Give one of these a little love and it will become a family heirloom.
The Gränsfors Scandinavian Forest Axe is a more professional axe, ideal for felling larger trees and for limbing a felled tree. The axe is forged to a curved bit, making it suitable for cutting into fresh, resinous wood such as spruce or pine. The long handle also gives more power to the cut.
- Length with handle: 64 cm (25”)
- Weight: 1,2 kg (2.6 lb)
Gransfors Bruk Large Splitting Axe
This is second time I've bought a Gransfors Bruk Large Splitting Axe. I had to upgrade from the previous one as the maple and oak I was splitting require a splitting maul and back she went. But I never forgot the wonderful weight and balance of the large splitting axe - and soon after I was through with all that hard wood, I was again wanting one of these. After checking with Randi @VPO Online, we found my axe in Revelstoke. I'm honestly hesitant about ordering an axe "online" as I'm concern that the grain direction will be poor or the head warped - but ordering from VPO was easy, the prices are good and the grain for the 3 axes I've purchased here has been better than what I've bought in stores. The Large Splitting axe goes through 12" to 16" dry cedar and fir rounds like butter. Larger trunks may require more whacks or a maul. Shout out to Randi and the Revy Store for helping me procure this latest addition to my collection at such a good price. These axes are such good quality and at a steal of a price - I may look to get the 35" American Felling Axe next. In case anyone is wondering about the "KB" forger stamp, I checked with Gransfors Bruk and it's for "Kyle Benkwitz."
- Length with handle: 70 cm (27.5”)
- Weight: 2,3 kg (5 lb)
or
- Length with handle: 80 cm (31.5”)
- Weight: 2,5 kg (5 lb)
Hand Forged in Sweden
Over more than 100 years, Gränsfors Bruk AB has built up a business based around handcrafted axes and axe expertise, with a focus on quality and environmental responsibility. Today, 32 people work there in production and sales. 80 percent of the production is exported to 30 countries. When it comes to the quality and feel of the axes, much depends on the experience and skill of the individual craftsman. Each axe is signed with the smith’s initials as a guarantee of quality. The company is located in the Swedish village of Gränsfors in northern Hälsingland, between Hudiksvall and Sundsvall. The forge sits at the heart of the village and you can hear the rhythmic pounding as you approach.