Ramon Onraita – The Great Basque Axe & Tool Manufacturer

The history of Ramón Onraita, one of the great Basque axe & tool manufacturers, has largely been lost to time. Just like so many other factories, their names have faded but their work lives on in steel.

Founded in 1881 by Ramón Onraita. The factory was located in Guipúzcoa in the Basque region of Spain. From the mid 1850’s Ramón directed Ignacio Mendiola “Patxi”, his brother in law, who would later run the factory.

Then in July 1973 the factory was bought out by seven partners (Juan Urcelay, Jose Errasti, Nicolas Errasti, Pedro Irizar, Pedro Igarzabal, Pedro Goenaga and Ramón Irizar). Well known names in the manufacturing of cutting tools. Especially axes.

Eventually closing the factory doors in the 1990’s. The brand is still currently the brand is being produced by Labrador Tools and is no longer produced in the Basque Region.

The tradition however does carry on with Hachas Artesanas Jauregi still producing Basque style axes.

The majority of axes they produced were of the traditional Basque style. Uniquely defined by a wrapped eye meant for a slip fit handle and generally without a poll.

While they were known for their axes they did produce a variety of tools. Everything from billhooks & hoes to cleavers and sledgehammers.