The Moose Axe
This is the do-it-all lifestyle axe. Large enough to get serious work done, it’s the perfect axe around the farm, homestead, and for camping.
Features
The design of this axe is inspired by the Evenki people who live every day in the Taiga (Northern forests of Siberia). In being outdoors constantly, few people use axes as much as they do. From building 30+ kilometer fences using only axes, to constantly preparing poles for tipis, bushcrafting, and other vital tasks, no other people know more what an axe needs to be a true universal forest tool. In doing so they have thought through every nuance of an axe and its design. I have spent years trying to find the right team to partner with to create the best possible product and finally I have combined the incredible Evenki design with the vision and skill to bring these tools to North America.
In ideal weight/length ratio that has enough weight to handle heavy duty tasks, yet is light enough to be mobile and adaptable.
The head is 2lb 6oz and made of High Quality 4140 Steel that is the perfect balance of hardness and edge retention while not being so hard as to be brittle or difficult to maintain in the field. I believe tools meant to be used in the forest should be able to be maintained in those conditions. The head weight can vary slightly due to the hand-forging process
A relatively large tapered eye that is the ideal diameter to slide a taper locked (wedgeless) handle through, increasing the strength of the handle while also allowing for a perfectly comfortable grip while “choked up”.
The 28” taper locked handle is strong, easily interchangeable, and allows for much easier field maintenance than a wedged handle.
A unique, Evenki style Chisel grind. Every human isn’t the same, and your axe should be designed to fit you. If you are right handed your axe will be sharpened from the right side, if left handed your axe will be sharpened from the left. The chisel grind allows for much greater control when doing precise work and bushcrafting. Not only that, but when chopping down thinner trees (and rarely do you cut down larger trees in true forest living situations) the chisel grind - combined with a steep chopping angle - slices right through trees. It is also much nicer for skinning poles and logs, almost working like a planer.
A chisel grind is also easier to sharpen, having only one angle to maintain.
A thin, deep chopping bit with a long cutting edge.
A bearded bit design allows weight to be distributed to the areas most needed.
A cutting edge to handle angle ratio optimized for efficiency
A concave poll that allows wooden wedges to be hammered into the ground without splitting them apart.
A high quality, hand crafted water buffalo hide sheath made in North America by the masters at Old Country Leather.
The sheath is designed to be secure while still being quick and easy to put on/take off. The external synch strap prevents accidental damage to the straps.
Durable Water Buffalo hide strike guard and lace.
28” Hickory handles traditionally handmade by Amish masters with a comfortable curved contour.
A hole in the base of the handle with a wrist strap. Not only does this allow you to hang your axe when not in use (minimizing the risk of losing it), but when ice fishing a strap can prevent an accidental drop in the water and potentially save your life. (Finding yourself in ice fishing conditions with no axe is a recipe for disaster)
The option to custom laser engrave the axe, adding a personal touch to what is truly a heirloom quality piece built to be used.
Every Axe is fully made in North America, and by purchasing a Jonas Taiga Axe you are supporting 4 small businesses! My own, Broad River Forge, Old Country Leather, and our incredible Amish handle craftsmen.
Every feature and design element of this axe has been thought through and executed to perfection in a way only possible when each axe is carefully handcrafted with pride. For that reason, not only do I have my own stamp on the blade, but also the mark of Broad River Forge, the only forge I found that could meet my expectations and vision. I also have my signature etched into the sheath indicating that I am willing to put my name on this axe. Finally the year of manufacture will be stamped into the axe - as this is a piece that is meant to least for generations.