Gransfors Bruk vs Hults Bruk: Which Axe is Really Worth Your Money?

Let’s settle this once and for all -if axes were Swedish royalty, Gransfors Bruk and Hults Bruk would be sitting on neighboring thrones. Both brands have been forging top-tier axes since the 1800s (yes, centuries), and both have legions of loyal fans -from bush crafters carving their next campfire masterpiece to homesteaders splitting firewood like it’s their day job.

But, while these two Swedish giants share a reputation for quality, they’re not identical twins.

And choosing between them is less about “good vs. bad” and more about “what’s right for you.” 

Whether you’re a weekend camper, a dedicated woodworker, or someone who just appreciates fine tools, choosing the right axe can make all the difference. 

In this guide, we will be talking about it all, covering everything from how their forging techniques differ, why handle ergonomics matter, and which axe might make your woodpile (or your Instagram feed) look better. So you can pick the perfect partner for your next adventure.

Spoiler: You can’t go wrong with either. But let’s break it down.

A Quick Comparison Table (Gransfors Bruk vs Hults Bruk)

When you invest in an axe, you’re not just buying a tool, you’re buying a piece of craftsmanship that should last a lifetime. Both Gransfors Bruk and Hults Bruk take pride in their hand-forged axes, but just like choosing between a luxury sedan and a trusty pickup truck, the “best” axe depends on what you need it to do.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

In short, Gransfors Bruk tends to have a more polished and refined feel, whereas Hults Bruk offers a rugged, workhorse aesthetic. 

If you want an axe that arrives razor-sharp and ready to go, Gransfors Bruk has the edge. But if you don’t mind putting in a little extra work upfront, Hults Bruk delivers solid performance at a competitive price. 

Both are winners -you just need to pick the vibe that matches your lifestyle.

Which Axe Offers Better Edge Retention and Balance?

Axe performance isn’t just about how sharp it is on day one. It’s about how it holds up after hacking through logs, carving tent pegs, or splitting enough firewood to rival a Viking campfire. And here’s where and Hults Bruk start to flex their differences.

Gransfors Bruk axes are known for their high-carbon steel, which gives them exceptional edge retention. If you want an axe that stays sharp longer and requires less frequent sharpening, Gransfors has the lead here. Hults Bruk, on the other hand, also uses high-quality Swedish steel, but some models lean slightly more toward toughness than razor-sharp retention. That means they can handle harder impact work but might need a touch-up more often.

Then there’s the feel. Gransfors Bruk axes are lightweight and incredibly well-balanced, making them ideal for precise work be it carving, limbing, or felling small trees. Hults Bruk axes tend to be a little heavier, which gives them extra momentum for powerful swings (a solid advantage when splitting tougher logs).

Durability-wise, both brands offer handcrafted, high-quality axes. However, Gransfors Bruk’s slightly more refined finish means it requires a bit less maintenance. Hults Bruk axes might develop surface rust quicker if not oiled properly, but with basic care, they’ll hold up just as long.

So, which one wins?

Well, if you’re after razor-sharp precision and edge longevity, Gransfors Bruk takes the lead. But if you want a heavier, hard-hitting axe for tougher jobs, Hults Bruk is a worthy contender.

So, Which Axe Really Fits Your Lifestyle?

If your idea of a perfect weekend involves carving feather sticks, setting up a backcountry camp, or felling small trees with surgical precision, Gransfors Bruk is your go-to. 

These axes are lightweight, impeccably balanced, and arrive so sharp they’ll make your kitchen knives jealous. The high-carbon steel holds its edge through hours of carving or limbing, meaning less sharpening and more adventuring. 

Plus, the polished craftsmanship makes it a tool you’ll want to pass down -or at least show off to your hiking buddies.

However, if your days involve splitting cords of firewood, processing logs for a wood stove, or tackling heavy-duty forestry work, Hults Bruk is the workhorse you need. The slightly heavier head and rugged Swedish steel deliver raw splitting power, making quick work of knotty oak or stubborn rounds. Yes, you might need to sharpen it a bit more often, but that’s a fair trade for an axe that keeps swinging when the job gets tough.

Still unsure? That’s why we’re here. 

At Boundary Waters Catalog, we stock both Gransfors Bruk and Hults Bruk axes, so you can compare them side by side (or just admire their Swedish engineering). Whether you’re building a campfire or a homestead, your perfect axe is waiting.

Checkout our Gransfors Bruk Collection here or

Hop onto our Hults Bruk section here.