I hated chopping wood until I learned how to choose "my" ax

Since ancient times, the ax has been an indispensable tool. Its structure - head and handle - is unchanged, only the material of the parts has improved over the centuries.

The nuances of buying an ax

First of all, decide on the purpose of the tool. Different types of axes have their own structural features. For example, a firewood chopping tool has a massive butt, which makes it possible to “heavier” the blow on wood, and a firefighter's tool is equipped with a hook. It is better to purchase narrow-profile models at specialized points of sale. For example, the best hiking tools are offered in tourist shops. Trying to save money in this case can lead to high costs at the right time.

Main characteristics

It is important to choose an ax "for yourself", as the wrong tool will have a negative impact on the quality of work and will significantly increase energy consumption. When buying a tool, experts recommend paying attention to the following characteristics:

· Weight. The weight of the ax is selected individually - hold it in your hands for a few minutes, if you feel uncomfortable and tired, take a closer look at the tool with a lower weight. General recommendations: at least 1 kg for housework, 600-800 g for hiking, at least 2-3 kg for cutting carcasses.

· The length of the ax is also an individual indicator. Place your hand around the handle under the blade. Extend your hand to the side, place the handle along the arm. "Your" ax should end a few centimeters from the shoulder, not resting on it.

· Handle material. Models with a wooden grip are inexpensive, but their service life is short - the material swells and deforms. Plastic is inexpensive, lightweight and good vibration damping, but fragile (especially at low temperatures). Fiberglass is more durable, making tools with a handle made from fiberglass more expensive than wood or plastic models.

· The blade must be made of high quality steel. To check it, hit a hard object on the head of the ax, the louder the sound, the better the material, and hence the service life.

In your opinion, what details are most important in choosing an ax?