The Svante Djarv Little Viking Axe is a high-quality, rare carving axe, made only in small quantities and hand forged for everyday green woodworking. Produced in the globally respected Swedish workshop of Svante Djarv, it is specifically designed for carving and controlled axe work.
The axe features a double-sided grind with two equal bevels, each ground to approximately 25°. The bevels are predominantly flat, making them well suited to carving. The long, curved cutting edge rises above the eye, encouraging a natural slicing action, while the pronounced beard allows you to choke up close to the head for finer, more controlled work.
The head weighs 800g and has a 140mm (5½") cutting edge. It is forged from SS 1672 steel and fitted to a 340mm (13½") curved, ribbed handle made from Swedish elm or ash. The head is traditionally attached using a well-seasoned wooden wedge.
Note: As each tool is handmade, minor variations in measurements may occur.
Edge Protection: We have recently invested in training and higher-quality materials to bring our leatherwork fully in-house. We now offer handmade, custom-fit full-grain leather sheaths for almost all of our premium tool ranges which, if properly cared for, can last as long as the tool itself. For transparency in pricing and to ensure fairer access to these tools, sheaths are no longer included with the price of the tool and can be purchased separately. A Woodsmith leather sheath for this tool can be purchased here.
About the maker:
Svante Djarv Hantverk is a family-run business based in Avesta, Sweden, specialising in hand-forged wood carving tools rooted in the Swedish metalworking tradition. Woodsmith has worked closely with Svante and Elsa Djarv for over a decade and is proud to be the UK’s largest stockist of their tools.
