Nordic Splitting Axe 37 cm / 950g + Leather Sheath

The Nordic Splitting Axe 37 cm / 950 g is designed for efficient log splitting and challenging outdoor conditions. At the core of the tool is a blade forged from semi-polished carbon steel, combining excellent biting power with easy-to-maintain sharpness. The widened splitting geometry quickly opens up wood fibers, preventing the blade from getting stuck easily and ensuring repeated strikes remain effortless.

The 37 cm oak handle provides more length and leverage than short hiking axes, while maintaining control and packability. Oak as a material offers a natural grip and withstands repeated stress well. The wrist lanyard at the end of the handle increases safety and makes hanging easier.

The 950 g blade mass generates effective impact energy for demanding splitting tasks. The semi-polished blade surface reduces friction when a split forms and is quick to clean after use. The included leather sheath protects the blade during transport and storage and prevents accidental contact.

Overall, the axe is a balanced solution for yard, cabin, and wilderness use, where more power is needed in a compact size. It is suitable for splitting firewood, pruning trees, and rough shaping of wood blanks before finishing with other tools.

Intended Use

• Splitting firewood and making kindling: The 37 cm handle and 950 g blade weight produce an effective impact that quickly splits even dense wood. The widened head reduces sticking, which speeds up the work rhythm and reduces energy consumption. Use a sturdy chopping block and utilize short, controlled swings for repeatability.

• Wilderness and camp use: The compact length fits into a backpack or sled, and the leather sheath allows for safe transport with other gear. The axe can be used to prune branches, process campfire wood, and shape camp structures. The oak handle provides a good grip even in cool and damp conditions, and the wrist lanyard prevents accidental drops on uneven terrain.

• Woodworking and rough shaping: The semi-polished carbon steel blade bites into wood with control, facilitating quick rough shaping of blanks before finer finishing. The geometry is particularly suited for splitting, but the front part of the blade also allows for more precise strikes and controlled shaving when working on, for example, the ends of logs or bevels.

• Yard and maintenance tasks: Suitable for cutting branches, splitting small trunks, and maintaining yard trees. The added length compared to short hiking axes provides leverage, but the overall design remains agile in tight spaces. This reduces the risk of hitting surrounding structures and facilitates working in, for example, a wood shed or log shed.

Package Contents

• Nordic Splitting Axe 37 cm / 950 g

• Leather sheath for the blade

• Wrist lanyard/attachment cord on the handle

Features

• Total length: 37 cm – Length provides leverage in a compact size.

• Weight: 950 g – Effective mass for more demanding splitting.

• Blade material: Semi-polished carbon steel – Biting cutting feel and easy sharpening.

• Blade geometry: Widened splitting head – Wood opens quickly, less sticking.

• Handle: Oak wood – Naturally durable and firm grip.

• Sheath: Leather sheath – Safe transport and blade protection during storage.

• Wrist strap: Durable cord – Improved safety and easy hanging.

• Maintainability: Sharpening with file or stone set – Quick field maintenance.

• Applications: Kindling, pruning, camp use, rough wood shaping.

Nordic Splitting Axe User Manual

Before use: Check the blade's attachment, the handle's integrity, and the wrist lanyard's condition. Remove the leather sheath only at the work area. Choose a sturdy chopping block and ensure a clear striking area.

Working: Use a two-handed grip for powerful strikes. Place the wood upright on a log and aim the strike towards the split. Let the blade's mass do the work – avoid over-controlled swings. If the blade gets stuck, do not twist; free it by tapping the opposite side or using a wedge.

Maintenance: Clean and dry the blade after use. Light oiling prevents corrosion in carbon steel. Sharpen with the original bevel from coarse to fine and remove burrs. Sand and oil the oak handle as needed; check for cracks and replace a worn handle.

Storage and transport: Always attach the leather sheath for transport and storage. Store in a dry and ventilated area, separate from other sharp tools.

Warnings

• The blade is sharp – use safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear.

• Ensure a clear striking area; keep bystanders at least 5 m away.

• Do not use with a damaged handle or loose blade attachment.

• Do not strike stone, metal, or frozen objects.

• Keep the blade protected during transport; store out of reach of children.

• Dry and oil the blade after use – carbon steel can rust.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between a splitting hatchet and a basic hiking axe?
A splitting axe has a widened blade geometry and a larger mass (950 g), which opens up wood fibers more efficiently. It is optimized for making kindling, while a basic hiking axe emphasizes versatility and more precise shaping.

Is 37 cm length suitable for backpack use?
Yes. 37 cm is still a packable size but offers significantly more leverage than 25–30 cm axes. The leather sheath allows for safe transport in a backpack.

How do I sharpen the blade correctly?
Maintain the original bevel. Sharpen with a file/grindstones from coarse to fine, remove burrs, and finish with a light honing. Finally, apply a thin layer of oil to prevent corrosion.

Can the axe be used for wet wood?
Yes, but wet wood increases friction and can increase sticking. The widened head helps, but always use a sturdy log and controlled strikes.

When should the handle be replaced?
If the handle has cracks, excessive wear, or looseness in the blade attachment, the handle should be replaced immediately to ensure safety.

Recycling Instructions

Packaging: Cardboard and paper for recycling; any plastics for plastic collection or energy waste according to local guidelines.
Product: Blade and metal parts for metal recycling. Oak handle for wood waste or energy waste. Leather sheath for energy or mixed waste, unless there is a separate leather collection. Clean off large dirt and remove loose parts before recycling.