Overview
In this review I’ll be covering a beautiful hand forged Siberian style axe made by Anton Salnikov. Sometimes a guy just needs to get away from the mundane production axes and venture into something with a little more soul.
With a growing number of blacksmiths making custom axes it only seems right to start showcasing more handmade tools.
For comparison, I’ll be using a Granfsors Bruks Small Forest Axe. While it’s not an ideal comparison it does serve well enough to illustrate the more familiar Western style of axe most people know. Versus the lesser known Siberian style of axe.
Suggested Product: Husqvarna Forest Axe
The Sheath
Every one of Anton’s axes comes with a handmade sheath. They’re made of heavy leather, hand stitched and built to last. The retention studs hold the axe securely but can be a little awkward. On the positive side, they do allow access with heavy gloves on. Something other sheaths don’t take into consideration.
Length
At just under 14″ you could consider this a large hatchet with just enough length to use two handed. Yet it’s still short enough to be used for fine detail oriented tasks without being awkward.
The Head
It’s hard to express how small this hatchet is. Coming in at about 350 grams. It’s one of the lightest hatchets I’ve ever used. However, the classic Siberian bearded blade shape allows it to retain a large cutting edge. The bearded design also lets the user grip the hatchet up high. Allowing for very accurate blade strikes.
Bit Profile
The bit profile is absolutely spot on. Virtually the same as the Gransfors, it’s not too thick and not too thin. Perfect for general use. Something often overlooked and one of the most important design aspects when considering how an axe will perform.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMXr1zhZcxo
Hardness
Anton makes his axes hard just like his knives. After putting my own edge on, I used this hatchet for multiple projects over a span of three days. The edge remained sharp and crisp with no signs of rolling or microchips.
The Handle
Classic and simple, the handle is on the thicker side but still very comfortable to use. Even with large mitts.
Palm Swell
This axe has a classic fawn’s foot shape that is true to form. It functions adequately but lacks definition. Yes, I’m picky…
Conclusion
Normally, you can tell how an axe will perform just by looking at it. However, this hatchet really surprised me. For such a light package this hatchet really cuts above its weight class.
The longer handle and excellent geometry allow it to cut deep, split decently, carve and every other task I throw at it. I would even bet that it would be well suited as a hunters axe.
Overall I’m really impressed with this unique hatchet.
Make sure to check out Anton’s work at Siberian Forged Knives.
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