A Swedish native wood is used for it's good properties as axe handle material. Also to cherish the long and rich history of Swedish axe culture. The idea is to get raw materials from as close as possible, and not have to 'cross the stream to get water'.

Ash is a Kalthoff favorite because it is hard and tough to endure a bad hit, but also elastic enough to flex and pick up vibrations to protect the hands from the strike.

It is traditionally used for axe handles in southern Sweden.

The ash used grows in northern Skåne. The color of the wood is bright in the sapwood and darker brown in the heartwood. The grain is clearly visible making it very beautiful.

Kalthoff handles are made with great care, first by turning and then hand shaving to finish. The hand shaving to finish is evidenced by very discreet facets left by the tool.

They are then finished with an oiling of raw linseed oil. Future applications of Boiled Linseed Oil will ensure your handle remain in good condition and will dry quickly.

When fitting a replacement handle, both handle and wooden wedge should be fitted furniture dry to be as contracted as possible. Kalthoff axes are not normally fitted with a steel wedge but secured with the wooden wedge and wood glue.

Steel wedges are not strictly necessary and are not supplied with this replacement handle, since it does not effect the durability or performance of the axe and only makes rehandling more difficult.

HANDLE Kalthoff Small Carving Axe comes complete with a seasoned wooden wedge.  However, if you would like the extra reassurance of fitting a steel wedge select Steel Wedges for Axe Handles, SMALL size below

The eye-wood measures 34mm x 14mm approx.  Total length is 305mm (12") approx.