leeawalden said:
Kennith, what do you know on axes. I wonder if the wetterlings or Gransfors Bruks are worth the money.
I am a
huge fan of Gransfors. Those things are
cutters.
What you are getting is an axe made the way axes used to be made. An axe, in the past, was a significant investment, and meant to last a very long time. People might think these are overpriced, but they are most certainly not.
They are incredibly sharp, so you'd better keep your wits and practice a bit if you've been stuck with Home Depot for a while. They are also properly tempered, so they absorb energy where they need to, and have an edge that's an appropriate hardness for whichever pattern you choose.
They hold an edge long enough to be easily sharpened, if that makes sense. Some edges are too hard. They hold an edge, but are very difficult to sharpen. Other edges are easy to sharpen, but are too soft to remain sharp. These things have it right. Best of both worlds.
If you buy one, you'll never look back.
Just examine all their options, as they crank out a traditional lineup. Read their descriptions to be sure you get the one you need.
The handles are well attached and constructed, with traditional, practical forms.
With a Gransfors, you'll find that you need less axe than you think you need. If you spend a lot of time with any axe pattern, you'll find the investment very worthwhile.
They aren't the only good manufacturer, but they are my choice. They've kept tradition alive, and worked hard to support such values into the modern era. Like any fine blade, they require a bit of care, but it's nothing beyond the occasional polish and oiling.
The Great Outdoor Provision Company stores have them on display every now and again, so it's a good change to handle one before you buy.
Edit: I've never used a Wetterling, nor have I seen one in person, but they appear to have a more pronounced transition from the concave grind toward the convex cutting edge. If that is true, they will handle differently. It's hard to tell in pictures.
Cheers,
Kennith