What's everyone's favourite chopping axe?

[trigger_andy]

19 hours ago, Baldbloke said:

X27 too, but wish they did a heavier version with a few more inches on the shaft. Good maul, but a bit dinky

The X27 XL then? 

[Bob_z_l]

1 hour ago, trigger_andy said:

The X27 XL then?  

I thought XL was 3cm longer...didn't seem enough advantage to justify extra $$

 

[trigger_andy]

10 minutes ago, Bob_z_l said:

I thought XL was 3cm longer...didn't seem enough advantage to justify extra $$

 

Many a man would be happy with 3cm extra.  

[Rob_the_Sparky]

The x27 is described by Fiskars as "Splitting Axe XXL X27".  The XL is the x25 "Splitting Axe XL X25" and according to the Fiskars advice probably as big as you should be using: https://www.fiskars.co.uk/products/gardening/axes/how-to-choose-the-perfect-axe 

[Stere]

The "monster" 8lbs USA type one is here for £87 free postge to UK i think (added to basket & it didn't add postage etc.)

 

 

 

IsoCore Builder's Axe XXL 8 lb/36"

 

https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B078WFJDGR/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3OSF850LCY46B&psc=1

 

 

Video review:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited December 17, 2018 by Stere

[Silverhooker]

I have a Wetterlings large splitting axe along with the Husky small splitting axe and the Husky large maul plus an Estwing splitting wedge, which rarely gets used. I've found this set up to suit the work i do, mostly syc and larch, odd scots pine and bits and pieces of beech.

[neiln]

Like Rob the sparky I started with the same kit.  Found the maul dire, would stick firm a lot, so I soon upgraded to an x27.  Gave the maul to my brother as a spare and he seems to get on better with it.

Also agree that wood grenades are dire in the wood I get and have had the same, nail the round to the block experience several times.  Roughneck do twist wedges for about £6 or £8, my last resort is 3 of those but I'll grab the 365 X torq and noodle unless I know there is buried debris.

 

Like Bob z I, I'm stunned how well the x17 does.  I've learnt to use a very low block and crouch though ... First time I used it, set the small round on a tall block, a knot caused the axe to split out the side and deflected it past the block.....a&e and 3 stitches in the shin resulted.... Short axes are more dangerous.

 

I'm tempted by a double bit but there aren't many available in the UK.  Not paying £235 for the gransfors, not for something that is just a 'cool looking axe'.  Don't see many on eBay UK either....I guess they are mainly a US axe design.

[Ian C]

someone else's!

[Billhook]

On 17/12/2018 at 12:11, Stere said:

The "monster" 8lbs USA type one is here for £87 free postge to UK i think (added to basket & it didn't add postage etc.)

 

 

 

IsoCore Builder's Axe XXL 8 lb/36"

 

https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/B078WFJDGR/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3OSF850LCY46B&psc=1

 

 

Video review:

 

 

 

 

I do not think I would like to be wielding that bloody great thing all day long.  The X27 is the best compromise of light weight and effectiveness.

[DocMustard]

I've had an X27 for a couple of years and find it very good, also have an Estwing sure split wedge. Used a general fibreglass handled maul before those.