If you are heading out to explore the wilderness, 
especially in a rugged area like Ely, Minnesota, having the right tools is essential. Whether you are venturing into the BWCAW or setting up camp somewhere deep in the woods, bushcraft skills are essential for thriving outdoors. And one tool you’ll see recommended time and time again is the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe. But is it really the best option for bushcraft?
In this blog, we are talking all about it. We will be taking a closer look at this popular axe and see how well it holds up for essential bushcraft tasks like splitting firewood, carving, and building shelter. So, if you're wondering whether the Small Forest Axe is the right fit for your next wilderness adventure, especially in the dense and unpredictable landscapes around Ely, you are at the right spot.
When you're out in the wilderness, especially in a place like the Boundary Waters, the right axe can make or break your experience. But not all axes are created equal, especially when it comes to bushcraft. So, what exactly should you be looking for in a good bushcraft axe?
Well, first off, durability is a big deal. Your axe needs to stand up to heavy use, from splitting firewood to chopping small trees for shelter. You’d want a tool that's built to last, made from high-quality steel that can hold an edge without frequent sharpening.
Next, there's versatility. A good bushcraft axe can handle multiple tasks, whether it’s processing wood, carving notches for traps, or even delicate tasks like feather sticking for fire starting (an axe that can do more than just chop is a big plus when you’re carrying limited tools).
Weight and size are also crucial factors. You want something light enough to carry with you on long treks, but big enough to give you the power needed for tougher tasks. The perfect bushcraft axe strikes a balance, it’s portable but still packs a punch.
Finally, ease of use is super important, especially if you're spending hours in the field. A comfortable handle, proper balance, and a good grip can make long-term use more efficient and safe.
And in bushcraft, you're looking for a tool that can do it all -split, chop, carve, and build. The right axe becomes your go-to companion for tasks like wood splitting, shelter building, and even creating tools from raw materials.
The Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe is well-known for a reason, it’s a classic choice for outdoor enthusiasts, bushcrafters, and even pros who spend a lot of time in the wilderness.
Each Small Forest Axe is handmade in Sweden by skilled smiths at Gransfors Bruks, which is why you’ll notice the initials of the smith stamped into the head of the axe. This attention to detail is one of the reasons it’s considered a premium tool, as it’s made from high-quality Swedish steel, known for its toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge over long periods of use. This is crucial when you're out in the field and might not have easy access to sharpening tools.
Next, the design. The axe head is perfectly weighted, at just over a pound, giving you enough power for serious chopping but without feeling overly heavy or tiring you out. It also has a sharp, narrow blade that’s ideal for splitting wood, chopping small trees, and even doing more precise tasks like carving (it strikes that sweet spot between power and finesse, which is exactly what you want for bushcraft).
Then there's the handle, that’s crafted from hickory, which is both strong and flexible. At about 19 inches long, it’s shorter than a full-sized axe, making it super portable while still long enough to generate plenty of force. The handle has a smooth, comfortable grip, so even after hours of use, your hands won’t feel like they’re getting destroyed, plus the slightly curved shape helps guide your swings for better control.
In short -yes, it’s fantastic. But let’s break down why.
First off, when it comes to typical bushcraft tasks like wood processing, this axe really shines. Whether you’re splitting logs for a fire or chopping smaller branches to build shelter, the Small Forest Axe’s sharp edge and balanced weight make the job easy. It’s powerful enough to handle medium-duty tasks, but its size keeps it maneuverable, so you don’t feel like you’re lugging around a massive tool in the wild.
When you need to get more precise -say, for carving wood or crafting tools -the narrow blade and sharp edge make this axe surprisingly adept at delicate tasks. You wouldn’t expect it from an axe, but the Small Forest Axe can handle things like feather sticking or notching wood without feeling too clunky.
Portability is another big win here. The Small Forest Axe is, well, small. At 19 inches, it’s easy to strap to your pack or carry along on hikes. You don’t have to choose between a big, heavy axe and a smaller, less effective tool. It strikes a perfect balance: small enough to take anywhere but still powerful enough to handle more demanding jobs.
Whether you're spending a weekend in the Boundary Waters or setting up a longer-term camp in the backwoods, the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe is ideal for a wide range of bushcraft tasks. It’s especially useful in wilderness camping, where you need a reliable tool that doesn’t take up too much space but still gets the job done.
If you want your Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe to last for years (or even generations), taking care of it is key. After all, a well-maintained axe is not only safer to use but will also perform much better when you're out in the wild. Here are some simple but effective ways to keep your axe in top shape:
1. Regular Sharpening
One of the most important things you can do is keep the edge sharp. A dull axe is not only inefficient but also dangerous since it requires more force to cut. Invest in a Gransfors Bruks Axe Sharpening Tool to touch up the blade regularly, especially after heavy use. The Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe comes razor-sharp out of the box, so maintaining that edge will make sure it stays a high-performance tool.
2. Clean the Axe Head
After a day of chopping wood or clearing brush, the axe head can build up dirt, sap, or even rust if left unchecked. Wipe it down with a cloth after each use, and if needed, apply a little oil (like linseed oil or even gun oil) to the head to prevent rust from forming. This is especially important if you're camping in damp or wet conditions around Ely.
3. Handle Care
The handle of the Gransfors Bruks 
Small Forest Axe is made of hickory, which is strong but needs a little love to last. Every so often, rub the handle down with some boiled linseed oil to prevent it from drying out or cracking. This not only preserves the wood but also improves the grip, which is important when you're using it in wet or cold conditions.
4. Check for Wear and Tear
Every few uses, give your axe a quick inspection. Look for any cracks in the handle, chips in the blade, or signs of looseness where the head meets the handle. Catching small issues early can prevent bigger problems down the line, like the head coming loose in the middle of chopping -a dangerous situation you want to avoid.
5. Proper Storage
When you’re not using your axe, make sure it’s stored in a dry place. Always keep the leather sheath on the blade to protect the edge and prevent accidental damage. If you’re storing it for longer periods, give it a light coat of oil to keep rust at bay.
At the end of the day, the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe is an excellent choice for anyone serious about bushcraft. Whether you're heading into the dense forests around Ely, MN, or exploring other wild terrains, this axe offers a great balance of power, portability, and craftsmanship.
It's small enough to carry with ease, yet strong enough to handle all kinds of bushcraft tasks—from chopping firewood to carving, and everything in between. Plus, with proper care and maintenance, it’s a tool that can last you a lifetime.
If you're looking for a versatile, reliable axe that won’t weigh you down, the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe is definitely worth considering for your next wilderness adventure.
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