Broad Axes

What do you use the broad axe for?

The Gränsfors Broad Axe, Model 1900, is used for hewing and squaring logs and planks. It is particularly suitable for shaping timber when building log houses and for other types of traditional timber construction where flat and even surfaces are required.

Characteristics of a Broad Axe

A broad axe is characterised by its wide blade and long edge, designed for controlled hewing rather than chopping. Broad axes vary depending on the shape of the head and edge, the angle of the handle and the type of grinding, allowing the axe to be adapted to different types of timber work and surface finishes.

Gränsfors Broad Axe Model 1900

The Gränsfors Broad Axe, Model 1900, is available in nine different variants, depending on handle angle and grinding.

The angle of the handle

The Broad Axe is available with three handle options. As standard, the handle is mounted straight, with the blade parallel to the handle. The axe can also be ordered with the blade angled to the right or to the left.

An angled handle keeps the handle and hands at a distance from the timber during hewing, which reduces the risk of personal injury and allows for a more ergonomic working position.

The grinding of the axe

The Broad Axe is available with three different grind options. As standard, the axe is ground on both sides of the edge (knife grind). This version is commonly used for making joints as well as for general timber and plank hewing.

The axe can also be ordered with a single-sided grind (scissor grind). In this version, one side of the axe head is flat and more aggressive, making it suitable for producing very smooth surfaces, such as when planing structural timbers. The opposite side produces a slightly more uneven surface when required. A reverse scissor grind is also available, with the grinding mirrored to the opposite side.

Start by chosing the handle

When to choose a straight handle broad axe

A straight handle broad axe is chosen when you want a more direct connection between the axe and the timber. With the blade parallel to the handle, the axe provides a balanced and traditional working position, making it well suited for general hewing and joint work.

A straight handle is often preferred when working on larger surfaces where hand clearance is less critical, or when a neutral, all-round broad axe is required.

When to choose an angled handle broad axe

An angled handle broad axe is chosen when you want to keep your hands further away from the timber while working. This is especially useful during prolonged hewing or when working close to the surface of the log.

The grinding

The choice of grinding is influenced by several factors, such as the side of the timber you work from, the surface finish you want to achieve, and which hand is positioned closest to the axe head while working.

Knife grind (double-sided grind)

As standard, the Gränsfors Broad Axe, Model 1900, is ground on both sides of the edge. This knife grind is commonly used for joint work, but is also suitable for general hewing of logs and planks. It is a versatile option that works well for a wide range of timber work.

Scissor grind (single-sided grind, left)

The broad axe can also be ordered with a scissor grind, where only one side of the edge is ground. The opposite side of the axe head is flat and more aggressive. This flat side is used when a very smooth surface is required, for example when dressing structural timbers or squaring logs.
The ground side is used when the timber is allowed to have a slight wave-shaped surface and does not need to be completely smooth.

Reverse scissor grind (single-sided grind, right)

A reverse scissor grind is also available. This version is the exact opposite of the scissor grind, with the flat and ground sides mirrored. It is chosen when the working direction or surface requirements call for the reverse configuration.