The Kalthoff Small Carver is a specialty axe and a precision tool. It is useful in a variety of carving tasks, from removing lots of material to fine cutting. Its an excellent tool for both beginner and more experienced or professional carvers. Designed and made by Swedish axe maker Julia Kalthoff and developed in cooperation with renowned carver Beth Moen.
The lightweight 550 gram axe head is easy to swing and maintain control. The edge comes ready to use and will hold an exceptionally sharp edge for a long time. The 30-32 degree angle works well for both soft and hard wood. Hardened to 58 Rockwell, it has good edge retention and is still easy to sharpen.
The axe is balanced just below the axe head, which makes every gram work to your advantage. When you do precision work, the axe feels lighter because your grip point is the same as the balance point. When you need to remove lots of material and need more power, you grip closer to the end knob so the entire weight is working for you.
Forged in Sweden from Swedish steel. Handle from Swedish ash.
"The axe works excellent. Distinct feel, good balance and good at removing material"
– Beth Moen
Axe Specifications & Details:- Axe head weight: 550 gram / 1.2lbs
- Handle: 300 mm / 12 inch
- Edge: Long and curved 100 mm / 3.9 inch
- Bevel: 30-32 degree slight concave
- Blade: 130 mm / 5.1 inch with carving cavity
- Neck: 55 mm / 2.2 inch
- Steel: Swedish steel. Alloyed with carbon, molybdenum, chrome, and vanadium
- Forging: Die forged in hammer press
- Heat treatment, edge: Kalthoff slow hardening to 58 HRC
- Steel finish: Rust proof oil
- Wood: Swedish ash, grown in Skåne
- Grain alignment: Straight grain, standing growth rings with +/- 25% variation
- Wood moisture: Axe assembled with handle and wedge furniture dry at 8–10% moisture level
- Handle finish: Raw linseed oil
- Sheath: Comes fitted with a vegetable tanned leather sheath. The sheaths are made from selected premium quality hides which are a by-product from local meat farmers in Uppland. The leather is tanned using only bark and water. Shade Bordeaux.
About Kalthoff:
Julia Kathoff's connection with axes runs deeper than most. She learnt the art of forging at the renowned Gränsfors Bruk. Her skill and commitment soon saw her taking pivotal roles at Wetterlings, most notably as its CEO.
It was at these esteemed forges that Julia honed her skills, leading her to start her own venture. Her first product, the Small Carver, epitomises her vision of creating axes that maintain uncompromising standards in every element of their creation and functionality.
We first met Julia when she was at Wetterlings, and since then we have hosted her here in the North East. Notably, one of the first axes Julia crafted is still in regular use by Maurice, a testament to its enduring quality.
Julia's axes are not just tools; they are a blend of history, craftsmanship, and functionality. Her dedication to the craft is about more than just creating a product; it's about spreading the love for slöjd and the profound satisfaction it offers.
