Hatchets & Axes

An axe consists of a handle and a head that is broad on one side and sharp and pointed on the other. The pointed end is ideal for splitting wood. An axe is essential when firewood needs to be gathered and cut into smaller pieces. It is also used in outdoor activities to clear dense undergrowth for passage or to trim branches that are in the way.
Axes are available in various sizes. Models designed for outdoor use are relatively lightweight and have a small, handy handle. They can be securely attached to the outside of an outdoor backpack.

Axes are among the tools that can be dangerous to handle and should therefore be used with particular care. In this context, it is important that axes meet certain safety requirements. The handle must be sturdy and must not break during use. It is also crucial that the head is securely attached to the handle. ASMC offers axes that meet these safety standards and are ideally suited for outdoor use. These tools can be taken on missions or hikes and are also essential aids in various camping situations. They are ideal for cutting a path or building a fort. There are also special folding versions that are automatically protected when folded, so the blade is no longer exposed. Naturally, they also take up less space in your gear. Otherwise, any axe that is frequently transported should have a sheath, usually made of hard plastic. It is specifically designed for the axe and has a closure to prevent the sheath from slipping off the blade.

Since wobbly handles are not only unpleasant to work with and prevent precise work, but can also be extremely dangerous, it is essential to ensure that the iron is firmly attached to the handle. The worst-case scenario would be that the iron could be thrown off during the swing. To secure a loose iron, you can either wedge it in place with a larger wedge than the original or drive an additional wedge into the wood. The metal wedge should be driven in at an angle of 60 to 90 degrees.

How do you properly care for an axe?

The handle, which is usually made of wood, should be treated with a wood preservative every now and then to make it last longer and protect it from the elements. This is especially important if you carry the axe on the outside of your backpack.
The blade should also be cleaned regularly with steel wool. This removes surface rust relatively well. Afterwards, it should be oiled and stored in a dry place if possible. The burrs that often form when using axes for non-woodworking tasks (e.g., using the neck as a hammer substitute when driving in tent pegs) should definitely be smoothed down with a file from time to time, as they otherwise pose unnecessary risks of injury or can damage equipment.