Hand Forged Axe Buyer’s Guide!

As the trend in axe restoration continues to grow another new trend is emerging. That of hand forged axes. With that comes a revival of old world skills. Accompanied by elite level prices. But they don’t have to. I’m going to give you a quick buyer’s guide to hand forged axes so you don’t have to break the bank.

#1 Buy Hand Forged Axes From Lesser Known Blacksmiths!

Most people have heard of Hoffman Blacksmithing, The Toronto Blacksmith, Josh Burrel, John Neeman, etc but very few have heard of Mārcis Liepiņš or Peeter Reemann. Not because they’re tools are inferior but because they haven’t spent the time and effort on marketing. Don’t be fooled. You absolutely do pay for reputation. Which is fine as long as you’re aware of it. There are about a dozen other gentlemen I can think of and I’ll put links to their work at the end of the article. So shop around.

Suggested Product: Hults Bruk Kisa

#2 Watch For Ready Made Pieces

Most blacksmiths like to make things just for fun. Not just to order. Which then have to be sold. With no particular customer waiting for those specific items they tend to sell at a reduced price so they don’t sit around forever.

Below is an example from Mārcis Liepiņš that he made and had up for sale for a while. It was a steal at $200 USD.

#3 Practice Pieces Are Your Friend

Developing skills always means practicing shapes and patterns. They’re not always perfect but they are still functionally the same. The good part is the price reflects that.

Below is an example of a custom axe made by James Austin where the bit was slightly shorter than planned. Although perfectly long enough to use. At $200 USD it’s still a beautifully functional piece of kit.

#4 Buy From Developing Blacksmiths

Guys that are fairly new to forging axes usually have prices that reflect their skill level. Now their work may not be as crisp and technically flawless as others but you get to save money and support their skill development at the same time. It’s win win.

Below is a wonderful hand forged Norwegian style axe made by Rovtar Forge that was only $100! He forges everything including billhooks, hammers, knives and tools. Only recently moving into axes. It’s not perfect but it will work just fine, the price was a bargain and his axes are only getting better every day. This is one craftsman to watch!

#5 Keep An Eye Out For Backyard Forges

Backyard forges may not be glamorous but there are tons of them. You just have to keep your eyes open. Most only make pieces as a hobby and then sell them in order to pay for materials. Otherwise, they’d end up with hundreds of axes and who needs that. Besides me of course.

Below is one of my favorite carving axes made by Austin Cook. I had never heard of him before he posted this axe for sale but for $65 shipped I’m glad I took the risk. As an added bonus it’s pretty unique too since he only makes a few axes per year.

Suggested Product: Council Tool Wood-Craft Pack Axe

#6 Handles Cost More Than You Think

When buying a custom axe try and get it without a handle. It will save you a fair bit of money both on shipping and manufacturing. Plus, unless the axe is coming from a place with the same relative humidity, it will probably come loose in short order. Also, you can then hang it on whatever size and shape of handle you want. Instead of being stuck with what it comes with.

Buyer Savy

Now that you have some buying tips it’s time to get out there and see what hand forged axes are available. Make sure to look around, ask for prices, wait times and rough shipping costs. You don’t want any surprises. If a maker won’t answer questions or has a huge waiting list that should be an immediate red flag. Good customer service and specific wait times are just good practice.