I work on a professional trail crew for the US Forest Service. I got one of these axes a couple of years ago, and it has been transformative. We use axes for very specific work: debarking, pounding wedges, delimbing, very rarely chopping out small trees. If you are in the deep backcountry, and your axe handle breaks, you are SOL. Happens all the time with overswings. Replacement of an axe handle properly is a many hour job. The USFS has boxes of superb axe heads that no one has time to refit. I don't have to worry now, about a head flying off and hitting my crew. The difference in weight is a VERY big deal, if one is swinging all day long. The heavier tool is far more fatiguing, and far more prone to injury. Easy to sharpen. VERY inexpensive to buy, which you did not cover.
Ya they’re $55 out the door. My buddy raves about his Gransfors. And I’m like “may be better. But I can get an axe for me and 3 other guys for the same price. Now who’s gonna chop more wood? You w your fancy axe or me and 3 other men w a solid axe.”
I know many winter campers that use Fiskars axes and hatchets as their primary axes for processing firewood. Myself included. I have an older 28" Fiskars splitting axe, that I love using for my firewood processing needs. Personally, the Fiskars axes and hatchets are excellent value for their price. One could spend 3-5x the money on Gransfors Bruks axes/hatchets but would not see 3-5x the performance over the Fiskars. Remember Fiskars is a company based in Finland, and one thing those scandinavian countries know how to do well is forge metal.
I stand corrected. (Thanks wikipedia). By Scandinavian countries, I was referring to Sweden, Norway and Finland. All three are known for how well they forge metal into blades, axes, etc.
bwillan I have two fiskars axes, the chopping axe and the hatchet. Both of which are nothing but awesome tools that have so many capabilities and uses, such as splitting wood for bushcraft and splitting it all the way for fires. You can even whittle and pound in tent pegs with them.
i own about 15 axes,have 2 fiskar's and they are the best i think. can split all day and not get tired. one important thing you should know, the fiskars are gaurantted for life. hope i spelled that rite. thanks for the video
On my X15 Fiskars I added a secondary bevel to the edge, boom deformation issue (which really wasn't a problem on any of my Fiskars) solved and it also holds an edge much longer. A working axe doesn't need to have a scandi edge. On my Fiskars 7850, X7 and 7550 hatchets I leave them scandi with no issues. A note on the supposed softness of the metal, fifteen years ago (or less) an axe wasn't supposed to be as hard as a knife to avoid chipping and sharpening issues. The current trend of super hard pseudo axes has gotten out of hand. Been using these very good tools for many years now.
I'm a novice when it comes to axes, and was looking for something to take camping and split firewood. I found your review really helpful, and I have to say your unbiased review of pros and cons was really good. I ended up buying the x15 and am really happy with it. Well done, and keep up with the great reviews!
I have the smaller X11 single-handed splitting ax and I love it. I live off-grid and only have wood heat. I use the X11 for processing all my kindling and it does an amazing job. Although not ideal for it, I've used it in a pinch for bigger stuff and have been surprised.
I have the X27, used for splitting wood. Was my first big axe. I have overswung (Hard) more than I care to admit. It still in great condition. Got x11 next. it’s a good camping axe for the RV. Last purchase was the X7 after watching endless axe reviews. It’s great for limbing after I fell a tree. Some day I may get a Heritage axe, but these work hard and have never failed. The steel is softer , but it’s easy to sharpen and can take a Razor edge by machine or manually without much fuss.
I have 20 year old Fiskars axe which is still (near) like brand new. Even Finnish army uses Fiskars axes for everything you could use axe (and sometimes for things you shouldn't)
I love my 28" chopper, I have almost all the fiskars axes and the 17" splitter and 32" super splitter for ridiculously hard to split rounds, I've over struck them and I'd break my wood handles (which I have a lot) where the fiskars just bounced and it was barely scratched the head does chip a bit easily but sharpens even easier but a lifetime warranty on it is a good deal as well, I touch mine up with a file after use and still love em they're a good choice, I fell and prepare hardwood oak and elm for charcoal for my forge and I'd go with fiskars any day I also have a ton as other axes including Collins Norland the genuine Norland and just about any classic old collectible axe you can think of most of which I've had to rehandle from over strikes and just being beat up when I bought them or upon acquiring them and they're all in good shape now but I still use the Fiskars axes more than anything more than my old Collins splitter or my Collins Homestead or any of my other acts as really I think the only two did I use regularly that aren't Fiskars axes are an Old Hudson Bay pattern Collins axe and a genuine norlund Hudson Bay pattern axe both are 2 lbs and mainly used just for kindling purposes but even then I still end up falling back to that 17 in Fiskars splitter I don't know why but that one is just really comfortable if you haven't tried that one and you are around 5 9 I'd say try that one for splitting because you can use it one-handed like a hatchet but at the same time it is very comfortable to grip with two hands and you can command it with authority and get through just about anything but everyone has their own preference how do you realize that I don't have a ton of money are least $100 or more to spend on one of those fancy Grand Forks or any of those high-end axes the Mind goes through heavy heavy daily use and some abuse and they're still razor-sharp but like I said I touch mine up with a flat file after every time I use it and I don't mean every you slice a peach tree I mean like once every 3 days maybe and I've owned each of my Fiskars axes for a couple years now and I still love them more than a lot of my vintage axes, to each their own though... y'all stay safe and have fun
Great review. I recently picked up an X7 and for the money the thing performs amazingly well, and I'm happy to have it in the car as part of my travel kit/emergency kit. You honestly can't go wrong, especially if you are on a budget. Though for general axe work I stick to my Hultafors, they just feel right.
Yeah exactly, if you use a tool daily you take care of it regularily to maintain its edge. Therefore i like the steel type. Sharpstones and time is more expensive than a well taken care of amazing tool
NIce review! oh and greeting from the land of Fiskars :). It's kinda funny that you compare these two axes. As they are made for different purposes. Personally i use smaller axe for splitting logs and making firewood. And a different bigger axe for felling trees. These latter ones have different design that the one on your video and the composition of metal is different. I don't know what is the selection of Firskars axes over there, but here they sell both lighter ones for smaller tasks and bigger ones for greater tasks ( for exmple felling a tree).:). Good points anyway. Nowdays I'm using axe mostly on my cottage and usually I'm using a "skrama" when I'm hiking.
I have a fiskers and I love it in the winter for chopping frozen corn silage in wagons. Works very well, doesn't tired you out as much as my felling axe
Thanks for a great video, and review. I just recently bought a Gerber Gator, and saw it is actually a Fiskar. I bought it to replace my camp hatchet, so even with the drawbacks, I feel it was still a great option for the camp hatchet that I replaced. I can't wait for cooler AZ weather now so I can get out and use it.
I do have to comment on the metal. Softer metal is actually pro in most cases for working tools such as axes and blades. Softer metal is much easier to correct and sharpen even with some simple field kit. And in practice this means you are more likely to actually sharpen it rather than just keep using blunt or deformed blade. Also, it's not even that soft, they have made harness quite appropriate so it balances ease of maintenance and durability.
I began shopping for a hatchet, solely for camp duty. I'm an overlander, not a hiker so my options were pretty much wide open. When I saw the Fiskars hatchet I have to admit I was a bit put off by the new-fangled handle (particularly the hollow bit) chiefly because I'm an older, wood-and-steel kind of guy -but- when I saw the Fiskars AXE I felt that it would perform superbly in either role and be much easier on me than wielding a heavier standard sized axe (it's not my age, mind you....it's my mileage) Need I say more? Well, the compact and lightweight quality of this axe certainly has merit, but how about the low, low price? As they say, "Less is more." Fiskars really delivers.
Watching these videos, the scenery reminds me of the Bruce Peninsula. Gorgeous area, where ever he is! I also love my fiskars weeding tool. I call it 'the weapon'.
I'm an occasional axe user - mostly for splitting rounds and quarters when camping. I've got the Fiskars x27 splitting axe and the Fiskars chopping hatchet. Both have done the job for me quite well, and I keep them under the false floor of my SUV as part of a winter emergency kit. I also have the Gransfors Bruk small splitting axe that I've used and like to keep as a heritage piece and small enough for a backpack. It's been effective as well. Being quite satisfied with the Fiskars axes, I've gone on to purchase both the Fiskars smaller and larger wrecking bars, the mini splitting maul, and the mini gardn pick-axe. I've made use of the smaller wrecking bar and the mini maul already, and I plan to use both the mini garden pickaxe this spring, along with the larger wrecking bar to do some work on some cedar post retaining walls that need work. The Fiskars axes are perfect for occasional use.
I've been using a Fiskars hatchet for a few years now, and I really like it. Prior to that, I was carrying a 'hawk, and they just suck for processing wood. I hate the idea of a plastic handle, but it's held up just fine with zero issues. I'm impressed with Fiskars ability to improve blade geometry, and lessen head weight. I really haven't noticed any soft steel issues, but I'm not felling mature cedars, either. Not to mention they're dirt cheap.
great video I own a fiskars x7 find it excellent for my bushcraft needs punches well above its weight . Light to carry super sharp great little carving axe in short I think they are great axes all the best John.
I just bought the X15 to put in the tool box in my 4x4 pickup truck, its just the right size for emergencies and camp wood prep I love the plastic cover for the head. I have not used it yet but I can tell by the looks and feel that its going to be just what I was looking for.
" If you're doing heavy labor, a Fiskars is not to use..." There are many models, the X15 is a medium size all around. There are several heavier models of Fiskars that are tailored for bigger jobs. This isn't the only Fiskars, it's a practical all around. The X25 and X27 are bigger and heavier to name a couple.
Great unbiased review brought out many of the owners of the Fiskars with their own personal experiences. I liked that; and so I subscribed. I am a woodsman/fly fisherman here in Kenai, Alaska, looking to buy a chopping axe. Mahalo! Aloha 🌺🤙🏽✡️☯️🌺
I own the 15x aswell yes the steel is softer but not by much, the only thing I found out was if your limbing with this cut the limb from the bottom it tends to be softer and when falling 30 or 35 degree angle works well to keep that razors edge. when it comes to sharpening these tools use a file or wetstone for the best results
I have a Fiskars X15 I use for splitting firewood at the campsite. I also have a Fiskars X7 I use to make kindling and feather sticks from the split wood or smaller branches. I bought thr Fiskars because I travel in an RV and weight is always a concern. So far they have performed very well.
I just purchased the Fiskars X17 but don't anticipate using it for building a cabin or anything. I wanted something bigger than a hatchet but small enough to go in back pack. Not to mention the price point! I see there are some 3-4 times as expensive, but couldn't justify the expense. I hear too that the straighter blade makes it a bit more utilitarian, which is what I was looking for. Thanks for sharing! Great review!
I have the same axe, and the smaller Gerber hatchet. No soft metal issues in the years I've owned them so far. I've chopped through two plus foot thick hemlock a few times with the axe, no problem. It throws huge chips! It is light duty, but I don't make a living with it. I carry the hatchet on my belt instead of a sheath knife most times, and it's immensely useful. Camp craft, food prep, shelter building, it does it all. The axe can go on my pack, and I don't even know it's there. Bang for buck, you can not beat them, as long as you remember what they are. I see them strapped to a lot of ATV's here in NS.
I've had this axe for about a year and concur with everything you said. it cam super sharp but it does lose it's edge really quickly and chip. I mostly use it for making campfires so nothing too intensive but even just bucking up a couple 4-6 inch dried hardwood trees is almost impossible once it gets dull. Was in the woods yesterday and after cutting up 2 small trees it was like a butterknife.
ive use one for about a year now still in great shape and i only use it to split firewood i like it as i have no fear of the head falling off i can use it all day long as it so light i also got there sharpening tool which works really well all my wood is hard oak and elm haven't tryed it on apple wood yet i really like this axe
This was VERY informative thankyou! I recently have been enjoying many of your videos especially the Wild Edibles series. I live in Martha's Vineyard off of Massachusetts and have found many of the foragables of which you discuss. I've been into foraging for a while now but mostly from Texas and find there are many new exciting things up north :D Will you be doing any more Wild Edibles or Bushcrafting type videos? That'd be great and i've subbed in case you do. Either way, great job on your vids so far. Keep up the good work!
sarahbojangles1 Thanks for watching Sarah! I love making wild edible / bushcraft videos, but I haven't been able to make as many as I used to. But I whenever I have time, I make them. So more are on the way, I'm just not sure exactly when.
I have had one of these axes since I was 7 my dad got it for me.and I’m now 12 and it’s still VERY sharp I use it nearly everyday.to cut firewood and it’s still serving me well but I will admit I am going to buy a new one. I also have a fiskars hand hatchet which is not as sharp anymore after 3 years basically I like this brand a lot
Just a little word to the wise, eventually upgrade. I'm not much older than you, I'm 14, and I can tell you that working with wooden handles is a habit I recommend you get into. I started with the 16" husqvarna, and owning both, I really recommend it over any fiskars. Your joints will thank you later.
Greetings from the Emerald Isle of Ireland 🇮🇪🇮🇪,I have the fiskers x27 super splitting axe, the x25, splitting axe, and the fiskers isocore 8 lb splitting maul, best firewood splitting tools on the market, love them all, money well spent,👍🇮🇪🇮🇪
I bought the X25 XL. I was amazed at how easy it was to split logs. I generally only split logs below 12"width. I was thinking of buying a smaller size due to arthritis developing in my hands and wrists, but I am concerned that this one might be too light weight. Any suggestions?
When I used the X7 to split 6 to 8 inch diameter oak firewood, I noticed that it did not stick in the wood as well as other small hatchets. It just bounced back. Personally, I prefer that it stick deep into the wood so that I can drive it through with a baton. Have you noticed anything similar?
you cant find fault with a granfors......however....i have had a fiskars for about 10 years or so and have put it through hell and back and its still going
i use mine for a truck axe,hammer,bush crafting,striking wedge for spliting firewood bang'en pallets apart and the edge hits nails and the edge dosen't get chip'ed or ding'd at all.it's the same one in the video.iv'e had mine for 2 years.
I have an x 15 and the small hatchet version. There very practical tools, I recently used my x15 to fell two big trees. My hand were killing me. So I totally agree about the not meant for heavy use.
Good review, I have the fiskars X7, for my backpack when im out fishing/camping and I love it, its a great/light weight hatchet, I agree it does need a little more sharpening but I always carry a sharpener with me. Im gonna get a X15 also for the wood burning stove at the cottage this summer also.
Fiskars is a brand for people who don't go around looking after their tools daily and instead use them. I have showels, axes and other garden equipment made by fiskars and I love it. It's always ready and when it comes to axes they give a long warranty (25yrs in eu) so you buy it once and you're set for a long time
I was a "born cynic" when it came to Fiskars axes; not any more. I bought a FiskarsX17 at a local hardware store as I was sick of swinging a 4kg blockbuster/maul to split my firewood; I'm converted! Fiskars for me except on the really hard, gnarly Aussie hardwoods such as Bull Oak which still need the heavy weight of a blockbuster. The metal on the Fiskars is a bit soft but it's easy to touch up with a file occassionally and not far behind my much more expensive axes when it comes to chopping trees (even though it is designed for splitting). I especially like the durability of the handle. You won't be disappointed with the Fiskars.
I also enjoy estwing axes my dad has had his for coming up to 12 years and the only thing that’s broken was the rubber grip started to separate at the top
I have messed up elbows. Wooden handles slam so much shock and vibration into them that I can't split very long. The hollow fiberglass handles of my Fiskars absorb the shock and vibration, so I can split all day long, and enjoy doing it. I don't mean to minimize all the other factors, but for me and my bad elbows, that other stuff doesn't really matter.
I love fiskars axes, especially with the handle being hollow you could put other stuff in there like things for fire making, fishing, solar blanket etc in there.
I grew up in Sweden with the typical orange amazing fiskars scissors. Now im using a stihl chainsaw and feel like i need one of these axes at my side... thanks for the review... The steel is soft but is it easy to sharpen?, i guess high carbon. Sound good to me. I sharpen my tools on the regular
The Stihl axe is a beast, but it is maybe too heavy to carry for long treks. Also, for log splitting, a blunt axe is more effective because it does not dig in so much.
I have a Fiskars that I keep in the tool box of my truck along with a Silky Gomboy. I have a tomahawk that takes care of everything else. I have not found anything I need to do that I can’t do with that combo. I am sure not saying that there isn’t jobs that combo won’t handle though. I was gifted an odd splitting axe that has two small metal spring loaded arms on the head and I keep that at camper for splitting green wood.
Fiskars have soft steel edge because it's easier to sharpen your axe than crack it. Hard steel might brake when you hit on something hard like stone or wood knot on the bad day. It's mean't for work.
36” is the perfect size for everything and I’m pretty sure the 36” one has a 4lb head making it better for heavier work. The 23.5” handle is basically their big hatchet axe.
one other problem with the fiskars axe not mentioned is if you break the handle its not a case of going down to the store and buying a new handle for it , no you will need to buy a whole new axe. for me here in Australia the fiskars that you show in the above video costs about $90 to about $130 depending where you shop
From the reviews it seems very unlikely that a handle failure will occur. The good news is that the axes are not all that expensive to replace if the handle does break.
Michael Martin Lololol he Needs a hickory handle so He can massage it with his hands and stare at the grain pattern and watch it patina over the years. The fiskars I’m guessing doesn’t give him the “fizz” hahaha
Wranglerstar reviewed fiskars axes pretty well. He just said the handle as a but uncomfortable from the vibration and the metal was a bit soft. But It's a solid performer and even said it split wood easier than his maul. The lighter handle does have more vibration and the metal is soft. But they work.
I have a Fiskars X25 which I like so well that I bought a Fiskars hatchet and a Fiskars Pick-a-roo. I have a monster mall that has been retired to my tool shed.
For people talking about "what if the handle breaks" I seriously doubt that will ever happen. I have heard of just ONE Fiskars handle breaking, a falling tree fell on it and broke the handle. So in reality you wont generate enough force to break it.
maybe he starts every sentence that way, "i bench over 300lbs, whats for supper honey" "i bench over 300lbs, could i get two tickets to The Notebook please, and a small popcorn"
I think the price is an issue, here in uk its about 60 bucks. Its good for the money. Heavy longer axes of decent build quality can be expensive. Its a good axe for hiking for sure.
I should have bought the Fiskars, I got a gerber axe/saw, it works pretty well, but doesnt feel very solid, its more of a campfire axe/saw. I think I want the X25 ?
So you are comparing an x15 which is a relatively small axe to a felling axe with a 4 pound head? I think this video needs a re-do when you are ready to review fiskars larger axe
The Fiskars felling/chopping axes are designed for velocity. Being lighter, you can get more speed built up before impact. And the head design is meant too rapidly force apart the round being split. If you want to keep an edge, don't chop into the ground....duuh!.....Like I'm one too talk there haha
this is kind of off topic in terms of axes but can a froe make anything bigger than shingles? I'm currently building a cabin in virginia and can't afford a chainsaw mill so making beams and boards has stumped my friends and I.
Ian Tewksbury I've seen guys make boards out of logs using a sledgehammer and wedges. But the tree has to be very straight grained to start with. I think it'd be very hard to rip a board from a log using a froe, although I've never tried. Anyway, I'm not even sure if I helped you. lol
OutsideFun1 thanks anyway :) I've only just started watching your vids but its awesome to have such great a resource online because of my limited experience.
Bought the X11 and the X17 both super sharp main useage for splitting/ Chopping for a source of fuel . So far highly recommend these axes but do remember heaviest / largest is not always the best axe for you or the job that you intend to do . Do your homework before you make that purchase lots of vidz on here as I did .
i have wanted a fiskars axe for years... ever since i saw a tractor run one over and it just sprang back.. i finally got one at a garage sale for pennies with abeat up edge.. i sharpened it and left the nicks and it still shaved... it also amazing on anything i hit with it.. i also got the hatchet it definitely carves.. because 26 dollars beat 200 dollars for a gransfors bruk small forest axe. now with all that said I believe the key to all this controversy is the scandy grind on the axe.. i bet if you take a good American felling axe and put a deliberate scandi grind on it .. your mind will be blown.. it is going to be a while till i do that so if you beat me to it let me know .. J
Jordan Hewlett I was thinking about that actually. I have a few ideas, but I've gotten attached to my original intro (even if it doesn't fit with the season lol).
I think Fiskar axes are really good for low volume "splitting". Pretty decent for cutting too. I like the tone of keeping it out of the "hard work day".
I have an axe that is a similar size as your fiskars x15 but looks like your proper axe. I've used it for over 20 years. Sharpened it twice. Just seems to be able to do everything. I call it my half-haft-axe and I love it. If have an entire tree to split for firewood I will sometime use my main axe, but with the half-haft I get tired much slower, so I can cut more wood before I have to stop, (before making a mistake.)
It depends on the job. Most people camping in developed state and federal Campgrounds must buy cord wood and then split each piece into smaller stove wood and kindling. Economical Craftsman hatchets preform this chore just as well as GBs and cost about $100 less.
I work on a professional trail crew for the US Forest Service. I got one of these axes a couple of years ago, and it has been transformative. We use axes for very specific work: debarking, pounding wedges, delimbing, very rarely chopping out small trees.
If you are in the deep backcountry, and your axe handle breaks, you are SOL. Happens all the time with overswings. Replacement of an axe handle properly is a many hour job. The USFS has boxes of superb axe heads that no one has time to refit. I don't have to worry now, about a head flying off and hitting my crew.
The difference in weight is a VERY big deal, if one is swinging all day long. The heavier tool is far more fatiguing, and far more prone to injury.
Easy to sharpen. VERY inexpensive to buy, which you did not cover.
+Ken Murray Thanks for your valuable input!
+Ken Murray I'm a fan of those USFS axes. If they are truly going unused, are they possibly being sold as surplus?
i had the same question.
Great input Ken !
Ya they’re $55 out the door. My buddy raves about his Gransfors. And I’m like “may be better. But I can get an axe for me and 3 other guys for the same price. Now who’s gonna chop more wood? You w your fancy axe or me and 3 other men w a solid axe.”
I know many winter campers that use Fiskars axes and hatchets as their primary axes for processing firewood. Myself included. I have an older 28" Fiskars splitting axe, that I love using for my firewood processing needs. Personally, the Fiskars axes and hatchets are excellent value for their price. One could spend 3-5x the money on Gransfors Bruks axes/hatchets but would not see 3-5x the performance over the Fiskars. Remember Fiskars is a company based in Finland, and one thing those scandinavian countries know how to do well is forge metal.
+bwillan Well said.
Nice to know the sons and daughters of vikings still know how to make a good ax.
Just one thing- Finland is not "scandinavian" country... ;)
I stand corrected. (Thanks wikipedia). By Scandinavian countries, I was referring to Sweden, Norway and Finland. All three are known for how well they forge metal into blades, axes, etc.
bwillan I have two fiskars axes, the chopping axe and the hatchet. Both of which are nothing but awesome tools that have so many capabilities and uses, such as splitting wood for bushcraft and splitting it all the way for fires. You can even whittle and pound in tent pegs with them.
Not sure if you realise that Fiskars have bigger axes for bigger jobs. You can't compare a baby Fiskars axe to a monster alternative!
i own about 15 axes,have 2 fiskar's and they are the best i think. can split all day and not get tired. one important thing you should know, the fiskars are gaurantted for life. hope i spelled that rite. thanks for the video
jimmy marshall guaranteed
Who cares about spelling, good or terrible, as long as someone can read it, it’s fine?
On my X15 Fiskars I added a secondary bevel to the edge, boom deformation issue (which really wasn't a problem on any of my Fiskars) solved and it also holds an edge much longer. A working axe doesn't need to have a scandi edge. On my Fiskars 7850, X7 and 7550 hatchets I leave them scandi with no issues.
A note on the supposed softness of the metal, fifteen years ago (or less) an axe wasn't supposed to be as hard as a knife to avoid chipping and sharpening issues. The current trend of super hard pseudo axes has gotten out of hand.
Been using these very good tools for many years now.
I'm a novice when it comes to axes, and was looking for something to take camping and split firewood. I found your review really helpful, and I have to say your unbiased review of pros and cons was really good. I ended up buying the x15 and am really happy with it. Well done, and keep up with the great reviews!
Thanks for commenting Peter! Glad you found my review helpful.
I have the smaller X11 single-handed splitting ax and I love it. I live off-grid and only have wood heat. I use the X11 for processing all my kindling and it does an amazing job. Although not ideal for it, I've used it in a pinch for bigger stuff and have been surprised.
I have had a lot of axe's in my time and the friskars X15 is by far the best axe for the $$
I have the X27, used for splitting wood. Was my first big axe. I have overswung (Hard) more than I care to admit. It still in great condition. Got x11 next. it’s a good camping axe for the RV. Last purchase was the X7 after watching endless axe reviews. It’s great for limbing after I fell a tree. Some day I may get a Heritage axe, but these work hard and have never failed. The steel is softer , but it’s easy to sharpen and can take a Razor edge by machine or manually without much fuss.
I have 20 year old Fiskars axe which is still (near) like brand new. Even Finnish army uses Fiskars axes for everything you could use axe (and sometimes for things you shouldn't)
Joo, tulihan fiskarssilla parhaimmillaan avattua armeijassa sergei tykin peltisiä panoslaatiokoita :D
I love my 28" chopper, I have almost all the fiskars axes and the 17" splitter and 32" super splitter for ridiculously hard to split rounds, I've over struck them and I'd break my wood handles (which I have a lot) where the fiskars just bounced and it was barely scratched the head does chip a bit easily but sharpens even easier but a lifetime warranty on it is a good deal as well, I touch mine up with a file after use and still love em they're a good choice, I fell and prepare hardwood oak and elm for charcoal for my forge and I'd go with fiskars any day I also have a ton as other axes including Collins Norland the genuine Norland and just about any classic old collectible axe you can think of most of which I've had to rehandle from over strikes and just being beat up when I bought them or upon acquiring them and they're all in good shape now but I still use the Fiskars axes more than anything more than my old Collins splitter or my Collins Homestead or any of my other acts as really I think the only two did I use regularly that aren't Fiskars axes are an Old Hudson Bay pattern Collins axe and a genuine norlund Hudson Bay pattern axe both are 2 lbs and mainly used just for kindling purposes but even then I still end up falling back to that 17 in Fiskars splitter I don't know why but that one is just really comfortable if you haven't tried that one and you are around 5 9 I'd say try that one for splitting because you can use it one-handed like a hatchet but at the same time it is very comfortable to grip with two hands and you can command it with authority and get through just about anything but everyone has their own preference how do you realize that I don't have a ton of money are least $100 or more to spend on one of those fancy Grand Forks or any of those high-end axes the Mind goes through heavy heavy daily use and some abuse and they're still razor-sharp but like I said I touch mine up with a flat file after every time I use it and I don't mean every you slice a peach tree I mean like once every 3 days maybe and I've owned each of my Fiskars axes for a couple years now and I still love them more than a lot of my vintage axes, to each their own though... y'all stay safe and have fun
Great review. I recently picked up an X7 and for the money the thing performs amazingly well, and I'm happy to have it in the car as part of my travel kit/emergency kit. You honestly can't go wrong, especially if you are on a budget. Though for general axe work I stick to my Hultafors, they just feel right.
it is for hard labor all day iv done it cutt cords of wood jus get the fiskars sharpener run it thru few time keep right on going!
Yeah exactly, if you use a tool daily you take care of it regularily to maintain its edge. Therefore i like the steel type. Sharpstones and time is more expensive than a well taken care of amazing tool
NIce review! oh and greeting from the land of Fiskars :).
It's kinda funny that you compare these two axes. As they are made for different purposes. Personally i use smaller axe for splitting logs and making firewood. And a different bigger axe for felling trees. These latter ones have different design that the one on your video and the composition of metal is different.
I don't know what is the selection of Firskars axes over there, but here they sell both lighter ones for smaller tasks and bigger ones for greater tasks ( for exmple felling a tree).:).
Good points anyway. Nowdays I'm using axe mostly on my cottage and usually I'm using a "skrama" when I'm hiking.
I have a fiskers and I love it in the winter for chopping frozen corn silage in wagons. Works very well, doesn't tired you out as much as my felling axe
Thanks for a great video, and review. I just recently bought a Gerber Gator, and saw it is actually a Fiskar. I bought it to replace my camp hatchet, so even with the drawbacks, I feel it was still a great option for the camp hatchet that I replaced. I can't wait for cooler AZ weather now so I can get out and use it.
My pleasure Darren! Thanks for commenting.
I do have to comment on the metal. Softer metal is actually pro in most cases for working tools such as axes and blades. Softer metal is much easier to correct and sharpen even with some simple field kit. And in practice this means you are more likely to actually sharpen it rather than just keep using blunt or deformed blade. Also, it's not even that soft, they have made harness quite appropriate so it balances ease of maintenance and durability.
I began shopping for a hatchet, solely for camp duty. I'm an overlander, not a hiker so my options were pretty much wide open. When I saw the Fiskars hatchet I have to admit I was a bit put off by the new-fangled handle (particularly the hollow bit) chiefly because I'm an older, wood-and-steel kind of guy -but- when I saw the Fiskars AXE I felt that it would perform superbly in either role and be much easier on me than wielding a heavier standard sized axe (it's not my age, mind you....it's my mileage) Need I say more? Well, the compact and lightweight quality of this axe certainly has merit, but how about the low, low price? As they say, "Less is more." Fiskars really delivers.
Watching these videos, the scenery reminds me of the Bruce Peninsula. Gorgeous area, where ever he is!
I also love my fiskars weeding tool. I call it 'the weapon'.
I'm an occasional axe user - mostly for splitting rounds and quarters when camping. I've got the Fiskars x27 splitting axe and the Fiskars chopping hatchet. Both have done the job for me quite well, and I keep them under the false floor of my SUV as part of a winter emergency kit. I also have the Gransfors Bruk small splitting axe that I've used and like to keep as a heritage piece and small enough for a backpack. It's been effective as well. Being quite satisfied with the Fiskars axes, I've gone on to purchase both the Fiskars smaller and larger wrecking bars, the mini splitting maul, and the mini gardn pick-axe. I've made use of the smaller wrecking bar and the mini maul already, and I plan to use both the mini garden pickaxe this spring, along with the larger wrecking bar to do some work on some cedar post retaining walls that need work. The Fiskars axes are perfect for occasional use.
I've been using a Fiskars hatchet for a few years now, and I really like it. Prior to that, I was carrying a 'hawk, and they just suck for processing wood. I hate the idea of a plastic handle, but it's held up just fine with zero issues. I'm impressed with Fiskars ability to improve blade geometry, and lessen head weight. I really haven't noticed any soft steel issues, but I'm not felling mature cedars, either. Not to mention they're dirt cheap.
great video I own a fiskars x7 find it excellent for my bushcraft needs punches well above its weight . Light to carry super sharp great little carving axe in short I think they are great axes all the best John.
I just bought the X15 to put in the tool box in my 4x4 pickup truck, its just the right size for emergencies and camp wood prep I love the plastic cover for the head. I have not used it yet but I can tell by the looks and feel that its going to be just what I was looking for.
very good review!! i have same axe, very good!! i do a convex edge on it and its bite a lot!! i prefer it over the big expensive brands
" If you're doing heavy labor, a Fiskars is not to use..." There are many models, the X15 is a medium size all around. There are several heavier models of Fiskars that are tailored for bigger jobs. This isn't the only Fiskars, it's a practical all around. The X25 and X27 are bigger and heavier to name a couple.
Great unbiased review brought out many of the owners of the Fiskars with their own personal experiences. I liked that; and so I subscribed. I am a woodsman/fly fisherman here in Kenai, Alaska, looking to buy a chopping axe. Mahalo!
Aloha 🌺🤙🏽✡️☯️🌺
I have a Fiskar splitting axe and hatchet - love them both!
I own the 15x aswell yes the steel is softer but not by much, the only thing I found out was if your limbing with this cut the limb from the bottom it tends to be softer and when falling 30 or 35 degree angle works well to keep that razors edge. when it comes to sharpening these tools use a file or wetstone for the best results
Found one at Walmart on clearance for under $20 about 5 years ago. Been using it every winter since. No complaints.
I have a Fiskars X15 I use for splitting firewood at the campsite. I also have a Fiskars X7 I use to make kindling and feather sticks from the split wood or smaller branches. I bought thr Fiskars because I travel in an RV and weight is always a concern. So far they have performed very well.
I just purchased the Fiskars X17 but don't anticipate using it for building a cabin or anything. I wanted something bigger than a hatchet but small enough to go in back pack. Not to mention the price point! I see there are some 3-4 times as expensive, but couldn't justify the expense. I hear too that the straighter blade makes it a bit more utilitarian, which is what I was looking for. Thanks for sharing! Great review!
I have the same axe, and the smaller Gerber hatchet. No soft metal issues in the years I've owned them so far. I've chopped through two plus foot thick hemlock a few times with the axe, no problem. It throws huge chips! It is light duty, but I don't make a living with it. I carry the hatchet on my belt instead of a sheath knife most times, and it's immensely useful. Camp craft, food prep, shelter building, it does it all. The axe can go on my pack, and I don't even know it's there. Bang for buck, you can not beat them, as long as you remember what they are. I see them strapped to a lot of ATV's here in NS.
Aaron Perrott Great input. Thanks Aaron.
I've had this axe for about a year and concur with everything you said. it cam super sharp but it does lose it's edge really quickly and chip. I mostly use it for making campfires so nothing too intensive but even just bucking up a couple 4-6 inch dried hardwood trees is almost impossible once it gets dull. Was in the woods yesterday and after cutting up 2 small trees it was like a butterknife.
ive use one for about a year now still in great shape and i only use it to split firewood i like it as i have no fear of the head falling off i can use it all day long as it so light i also got there sharpening tool which works really well all my wood is hard oak and elm haven't tryed it on apple wood yet i really like this axe
Thanks for the review. Picking one up.
This was VERY informative thankyou! I recently have been enjoying many of your videos especially the Wild Edibles series. I live in Martha's Vineyard off of Massachusetts and have found many of the foragables of which you discuss. I've been into foraging for a while now but mostly from Texas and find there are many new exciting things up north :D Will you be doing any more Wild Edibles or Bushcrafting type videos? That'd be great and i've subbed in case you do. Either way, great job on your vids so far. Keep up the good work!
sarahbojangles1 Thanks for watching Sarah! I love making wild edible / bushcraft videos, but I haven't been able to make as many as I used to. But I whenever I have time, I make them. So more are on the way, I'm just not sure exactly when.
Great review.
I have had one of these axes since I was 7 my dad got it for me.and I’m now 12 and it’s still VERY sharp I use it nearly everyday.to cut firewood and it’s still serving me well but I will admit I am going to buy a new one. I also have a fiskars hand hatchet which is not as sharp anymore after 3 years basically I like this brand a lot
Just a little word to the wise, eventually upgrade. I'm not much older than you, I'm 14, and I can tell you that working with wooden handles is a habit I recommend you get into. I started with the 16" husqvarna, and owning both, I really recommend it over any fiskars. Your joints will thank you later.
Hey! I have a blog on woodcutting tools and I'm going to include this video in an article on Fiskars axes. Very informative.
Greetings from the Emerald Isle of Ireland 🇮🇪🇮🇪,I have the fiskers x27 super splitting axe, the x25, splitting axe, and the fiskers isocore 8 lb splitting maul, best firewood splitting tools on the market, love them all, money well spent,👍🇮🇪🇮🇪
I bought the X25 XL. I was amazed at how easy it was to split logs. I generally only split logs below 12"width. I was thinking of buying a smaller size due to arthritis developing in my hands and wrists, but I am concerned that this one might be too light weight. Any suggestions?
I have the black handled fiskers an a little hatchet love them both great axes an I'm gonna get a 3rd one soon probably like yours in this video.
When I used the X7 to split 6 to 8 inch diameter oak firewood, I noticed that it did not stick in the wood as well as other small hatchets. It just bounced back. Personally, I prefer that it stick deep into the wood so that I can drive it through with a baton. Have you noticed anything similar?
@faultroy Not always. a lot of the time is is because of bad geometry. Fiskars axes are basically wedges
you cant find fault with a granfors......however....i have had a fiskars for about 10 years or so and have put it through hell and back and its still going
its always nice to see videos from you
NJ Productions Thanks NJ!
Thank you so much!!!!!! We appreciate it dearly and will recommend you in our videos also!!! Your videos are great!!
i use mine for a truck axe,hammer,bush crafting,striking wedge for spliting firewood bang'en pallets apart and the edge hits nails and the edge dosen't get chip'ed or ding'd at all.it's the same one in the video.iv'e had mine for 2 years.
You said it all.
Bruce
I have an x 15 and the small hatchet version. There very practical tools, I recently used my x15 to fell two big trees. My hand were killing me. So I totally agree about the not meant for heavy use.
Brilliant review mate 👍
Thank you for an excellent and helpful review!
My pleasure. Thanks for watching!
which economy axe &splitting head have long lasting edges?
They have them for $15 at Walmart on clearance, would buying them all be a good idea?
Good review, I have the fiskars X7, for my backpack when im out fishing/camping and I love it, its a great/light weight hatchet, I agree it does need a little more sharpening but I always carry a sharpener with me. Im gonna get a X15 also for the wood burning stove at the cottage this summer also.
epicpaul77 Thanks Epicpaul. Those are exactly the types of uses that I think the Fiskars are built for. Thanks for commenting.
Fiskars is a brand for people who don't go around looking after their tools daily and instead use them. I have showels, axes and other garden equipment made by fiskars and I love it. It's always ready and when it comes to axes they give a long warranty (25yrs in eu) so you buy it once and you're set for a long time
I was a "born cynic" when it came to Fiskars axes; not any more. I bought a FiskarsX17 at a local hardware store as I was sick of swinging a 4kg blockbuster/maul to split my firewood; I'm converted! Fiskars for me except on the really hard, gnarly Aussie hardwoods such as Bull Oak which still need the heavy weight of a blockbuster. The metal on the Fiskars is a bit soft but it's easy to touch up with a file occassionally and not far behind my much more expensive axes when it comes to chopping trees (even though it is designed for splitting). I especially like the durability of the handle. You won't be disappointed with the Fiskars.
Thanks Allan! Good review.
I also enjoy estwing axes my dad has had his for coming up to 12 years and the only thing that’s broken was the rubber grip started to separate at the top
I have messed up elbows. Wooden handles slam so much shock and vibration into them that I can't split very long. The hollow fiberglass handles of my Fiskars absorb the shock and vibration, so I can split all day long, and enjoy doing it. I don't mean to minimize all the other factors, but for me and my bad elbows, that other stuff doesn't really matter.
I love fiskars axes, especially with the handle being hollow you could put other stuff in there like things for fire making, fishing, solar blanket etc in there.
I grew up in Sweden with the typical orange amazing fiskars scissors. Now im using a stihl chainsaw and feel like i need one of these axes at my side... thanks for the review...
The steel is soft but is it easy to sharpen?, i guess high carbon. Sound good to me. I sharpen my tools on the regular
Perhaps you should add to the pros list that it's got a name with shtick "X-15"
The Stihl axe is a beast, but it is maybe too heavy to carry for long treks. Also, for log splitting, a blunt axe is more effective because it does not dig in so much.
Thank you for your honest review
I have a Fiskars that I keep in the tool box of my truck along with a Silky Gomboy. I have a tomahawk that takes care of everything else. I have not found anything I need to do that I can’t do with that combo. I am sure not saying that there isn’t jobs that combo won’t handle though. I was gifted an odd splitting axe that has two small metal spring loaded arms on the head and I keep that at camper for splitting green wood.
solid review with good video
Fiskars have soft steel edge because it's easier to sharpen your axe than crack it. Hard steel might brake when you hit on something hard like stone or wood knot on the bad day. It's mean't for work.
And...when has this happened to you? Cause I’ve used many axes and haven’t had a head break. They use softer metal cause it’s cheap. Plain and simple.
36” is the perfect size for everything and I’m pretty sure the 36” one has a 4lb head making it better for heavier work. The 23.5” handle is basically their big hatchet axe.
I Got a Fiskars X7 and i love it even though i've got expensive and better hatchets i use the Fiskars more without maintenance worries
one other problem with the fiskars axe not mentioned is if you break the handle its not a case of going down to the store and buying a new handle for it , no you will need to buy a whole new axe. for me here in Australia the fiskars that you show in the above video costs about $90 to about $130 depending where you shop
markitttoss Very good point. It is something that I forgot to mention in the vid.
Sorry friend but Fiskars comes with a lifetime warranty so you don't have to buy a new one. Another good point not mentioned but great vid overall.
From the reviews it seems very unlikely that a handle failure will occur. The good news is that the axes are not all that expensive to replace if the handle does break.
I have the 28 inch one. I agree with you on the blade quality. I was quite disappointed when I found the blade niched.
Excellent review and axe.
Don't mention this axe to wranglerstar lol
Michael Martin Lololol he
Needs a hickory handle so
He can massage it with his hands and stare at the grain pattern and watch it patina over the years. The fiskars I’m guessing doesn’t give him the “fizz” hahaha
Wranglerstar reviewed fiskars axes pretty well. He just said the handle as a but uncomfortable from the vibration and the metal was a bit soft. But It's a solid performer and even said it split wood easier than his maul. The lighter handle does have more vibration and the metal is soft. But they work.
I have a Fiskars X25 which I like so well that I bought a Fiskars hatchet and a Fiskars Pick-a-roo. I have a monster mall that has been retired to my tool shed.
Your videos are awesome I really enjoy them
For people talking about "what if the handle breaks" I seriously doubt that will ever happen. I have heard of just ONE Fiskars handle breaking, a falling tree fell on it and broke the handle. So in reality you wont generate enough force to break it.
i bench over 300lbs and have not broken mine even with overstriking
How come everyone online who benches always claims 300lbs?? Why not say.. 250? Is 300 the popular go-to bullshitter number?
wally Tuclker who gives a shit what you bench? It has zero bearing on chopping.
maybe he starts every sentence that way,
"i bench over 300lbs, whats for supper honey"
"i bench over 300lbs, could i get two tickets to The Notebook please, and a small popcorn"
D
I think the price is an issue, here in uk its about 60 bucks. Its good for the money. Heavy longer axes of decent build quality can be expensive. Its a good axe for hiking for sure.
I should have bought the Fiskars, I got a gerber axe/saw, it works pretty well, but doesnt feel very solid, its more of a campfire axe/saw. I think I want the X25 ?
www.walmart.com/ip/Fiskars-375581-1001-28-Steel-Chopping-Axe/33074229?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1172&adid=22222222227021801241&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40971548072&wl4=aud-273067695102:pla-78914323472&wl5=9008121&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8453398&wl11=online&wl12=33074229&wl13=&veh=sem
I got 2 fiskars now and i love them great for bushcraft nice light weight and they do the job
Nice review! thanks!
So you are comparing an x15 which is a relatively small axe to a felling axe with a 4 pound head? I think this video needs a re-do when you are ready to review fiskars larger axe
Spliting axe or chopping axe which is better to get?
Yes i will buy a fiskars axe X10
The Fiskars felling/chopping axes are designed for velocity. Being lighter, you can get more speed built up before impact. And the head design is meant too rapidly force apart the round being split. If you want to keep an edge, don't chop into the ground....duuh!.....Like I'm one too talk there haha
this is kind of off topic in terms of axes but can a froe make anything bigger than shingles? I'm currently building a cabin in virginia and can't afford a chainsaw mill so making beams and boards has stumped my friends and I.
Ian Tewksbury I've seen guys make boards out of logs using a sledgehammer and wedges. But the tree has to be very straight grained to start with. I think it'd be very hard to rip a board from a log using a froe, although I've never tried. Anyway, I'm not even sure if I helped you. lol
OutsideFun1 thanks anyway :) I've only just started watching your vids but its awesome to have such great a resource online because of my limited experience.
Bought the X11 and the X17 both super sharp main useage for splitting/ Chopping for a source of fuel . So far highly recommend these axes but do remember heaviest / largest is not always the best axe for you or the job that you intend to do . Do your homework before you make that purchase lots of vidz on here as I did .
Quality steel blades, get their $10 quick sharpener. Works great. 👍🏼
I disagree on blade quality. I have 3 Fiskars.
i have wanted a fiskars axe for years... ever since i saw a tractor run one over and it just sprang back.. i finally got one at a garage sale for pennies with abeat up edge.. i sharpened it and left the nicks and it still shaved... it also amazing on anything i hit with it.. i also got the hatchet it definitely carves.. because 26 dollars beat 200 dollars for a gransfors bruk small forest axe. now with all that said I believe the key to all this controversy is the scandy grind on the axe.. i bet if you take a good American felling axe and put a deliberate scandi grind on it .. your mind will be blown.. it is going to be a while till i do that so if you beat me to it let me know .. J
nice review dude. thanks.
peppertime1 No problem. Thanks for watching!
There is another larger size, the x27. It is 36in. and has a 4.25lb head as well as the 28in x25.
This video made me think; it would be cool for you to do a winter intro clip. Just a thought.
Jordan Hewlett I was thinking about that actually. I have a few ideas, but I've gotten attached to my original intro (even if it doesn't fit with the season lol).
I love the Psalms verse on the axe!
jeremypenuta Thank you my friend. I thought it was fitting.
indeed.
You should shut your bitch mouth
He is keeping it to himself. He carved it on his axe, not yours.
sancy 102 - Religious zealots are a danger to civilization.
I think Fiskar axes are really good for low volume "splitting". Pretty decent for cutting too. I like the tone of keeping it out of the "hard work day".
As they say:
"A real Bad A$$ doesn't look at the explosion"
and i guess that goes for the falling tree as well
What do you do with the trees you cut down?
+landon davies I'm building a log cabin with those trees. And I sell the rest as posts. Just check out my other videos and you'll see what I mean.
I have an axe that is a similar size as your fiskars x15 but looks like your proper axe. I've used it for over 20 years. Sharpened it twice. Just seems to be able to do everything. I call it my half-haft-axe and I love it. If have an entire tree to split for firewood I will sometime use my main axe, but with the half-haft I get tired much slower, so I can cut more wood before I have to stop, (before making a mistake.)
Looks like you have your own little forest
better than gransfors bruks!
Nope lol
I,ll take my Gransfors Bruk anytime over a Fiskars.
It depends on the job. Most people camping in developed state and federal Campgrounds must buy cord wood and then split each piece into smaller stove wood and kindling. Economical Craftsman hatchets preform this chore just as well as GBs and cost about $100 less.
Liked, shared and commented
My guy is straight up playing the forest
Why are you cutting down healthy trees and not going after dead ones that can be seen in the background ?
does it split well
i use the 28 in chopping axe and the second biggest splitting axe they have.....both work great