Our axes are hand forged from a block of 4142 chrome/moly alloy steel in the Blue Ridge mountains on the Western North Carolina, Eastern Tennessee line and heat treated to 55.5 HRC. The heads are hung on straight grained hickory handles made from cabinet grade kiln dried lumber*. Each handle is hand fitted with a drawknife.

The Hawksbill (named after Hawksbill Mountain in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area of NC) is one of our top choices for a backpacking axe. The head weight is approximately 21 ounces, with a handle length of 13 inches. Double bit axes give you two blades in one. For example, it’s wise to save one of your blades for finer cutting work, while sacrificing the other for grub work near the ground where edge damage is likely. Double bit axes are very balanced as well. You can upgrade for $30 more to have a sheath which will allow you to carry the axe on your hip, or on your pack. The Hawksbill is light weight and perfect for longer distance trips.

Sheaths are hand made with thick vegetable tanned water buffalo leather. 100% made in house. Overbuilt and ready to use, because overkill never fails.

*Handles 19” or shorter will have straight grain yet may not be parallel to the handle.