To sharpen a splitting axe, you will need a few tools such as a file, a honing stone or sharpening puck, and a sturdy workbench or vise. Here are the steps to sharpen a splitting axe:
- Secure the axe: Place the axe securely in a workbench or vise, ensuring it doesn't move while sharpening. This will provide stability and safety throughout the process.
- Examine the axe edge: Inspect the axe blade for any damages, dullness, or nicks. Look for uneven areas or chips that need to be addressed during the sharpening process.
- File the bevel: Use a file to reshape the bevel of the axe blade. Hold the file at a consistent angle, usually around 20 to 30 degrees, and push it along the blade in smooth, even strokes. Maintain a steady pressure and work across the entire bevel, focusing on removing any nicks or irregularities.
- Use a honing stone: After filing, switch to a honing stone or sharpening puck. Wet the stone with water or honing oil, then hold the axe with the bevel flat against the stone's surface. Maintain a consistent angle as you move the blade back and forth, covering the entire bevel. This process helps to refine and smooth the edge of the axe.
- Work the cutting edge: Pay close attention to the cutting edge while using the honing stone. Make sure to evenly apply pressure along the entire edge, ensuring it is uniformly sharpened. Keep sharpening until you achieve a keen, thin cutting edge.
- Test the sharpness: Once you are satisfied with the sharpening, test the edge by making a few controlled swings on a piece of wood. The axe should split cleanly without getting stuck in the wood. If the blade sticks or the cutting isn't smooth, repeat the sharpening process until satisfactory results are achieved.
- Maintain the axe: After sharpening, it's important to regularly maintain the axe to prevent it from dulling quickly. Remove any sap or debris from the blade, oil the axe head, and store it in a dry place to avoid rust and deterioration.
Remember to proceed with caution while sharpening an axe and always follow safety guidelines. Keeping your splitting axe sharp ensures efficient chopping and prolongs its lifespan.
Best Splitting Axe in September 2025
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Spaltaxt - German Splitting Axe, Made in Germany Wood Splitter and Wood Splitting Axe Midsize Medium Splitting Axe - Head 4.5 lbs, Handle 28 in. (Spaltaxt) #13582
-
Handmade in Germany: The Spaltaxt is a German-style splitter suited for splitting rounds and heavy firewood. The dual wedge head design delivers powerful, effective strikes that increase splitting efficiency and prevent the head from becoming stuck or pinched in logs. The Spaltaxt’s mid-weight 4 ½ pound head and comfortable 28 inch handle keep the wielder fresh during long sessions. This axe handily outperforms others in its class, and stands up well against much heavier tools.
-
C50 High Carbon Steel: 53-56 HRC - Helko Werk axe heads are open-face drop forged individually by hand from German C50 high grade carbon steel. Drop forging is a process in which the blacksmith uses tongs to hold and shape hot steel as a drop hammer falls repeatedly onto it.
-
Grade A American Hickory Handle: Linseed Oil Finish, 150 Grit Sanded Sustainably sourced grade A American hickory handle. All Helko Werk camping axes and hatchets have handles individually hand finished and selected for grain orientation and density with a boiled linseed oil finish and sanded to 150 grit for a comfortable and smooth finish on your axe handle
-
Includes Full Grain Leather Sheath and 1 oz Bottle of Axe Guard Protective Oil: All Helko Werk axes and hatchets include a vegetable-tanned premium leather axe sheath to protect your axe blade and head. The Axe Guard oil is a metal protecting oil to help maintain the steel of your axe head, and prevent rust over time.
-
Dimensions: Head Weight: 4-1/2 lb, Length: 28 in, Total Weight: 5-3/4 lb
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Council Tool 5 lbs. SB Splitting Axe; 36 in. Straight Wooden Handle
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe - Wood Splitter for Medium to Large Size Logs with 36" Shock-Absorbing Handle - Black
-
MULTI-USE AXE: Sharp blade axe is an ideal wood chopper designed for firewood, yard work, and lawn cleanup, with maximum efficiency for more one-strike splits; Perfect for medium to large size logs
-
EFFICIENT AND COMFORTABLE USE: Shock-absorbing handle with textured non-slip grip reduces hand strain, improves control, and prevents overstrike damage; 36" handle is ideal for taller users
-
LONG-LASTING AND RELIABLE: Hardened forged steel blade stays sharper longer than traditional axes and advanced bevel convex design splits efficiently and makes the blade easier to remove from wood; Provides excellent durability and lasting value
-
QUALITY OUTDOOR TOOLS: Designed to help you embrace the outdoors, Fiskars axes and hatchets are equipped with smart technologies and award-winning, ergonomic features that make it easier and more enjoyable to tackle outdoor tasks
-
INCLUDES: 1 Fiskars Super Splitting Axe with protective sheath; Backed by a lifetime warranty
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
KURUI Wood Splitting Axe and Hatchet Set, 15” Camping Hatchet & 34” Chopping Axe for Cutting and Felling, Long Handle Splitter Axe with Shock-Absorbent Fiber Glass Anti-Slip Handle and Blade Sheath
-
MATERIAL WITH HIGH STRENGTH – Our splitting axe consists of a strong helve made of high-quality fiber glass material, which can effectively reduce the vibration while splitting wood, and a durable and high-strength axe head made of hardened carbon steel, which stays sharp longer that traditional axes. This durable 34" camp axes and 14" hatchets is built for a better using experience.
-
ERGONOMIC DESIGN – The handle of KURUI splitting axe tool is covered with flexible TPR material for a better shock absorbing result. the black TPR handle is also of excellent resistance to slipping. The ergonomically designed proportion of the head and handle offers ultimate using comfort.
-
EASY USE – When you receive this camping axe, you will find that it has already been sharpened, so you can directly use it for chopping wood easily; when you need to sharpen it, just use a sharpening stone and grind on the blade lightly.
-
GREAT HELPER FOR LOG & FIREWOOD – KURUI camping axes & hatchets makes it easy for you to deal with solid wood, kindling, stems and twigs with high efficiency, serving as your ideal and reliable companion for gardening, camping, surviving, hiking, split wood and all other outdoor activities.
-
WHAT YOU GET – You will receive 1 34-inch axe, 1 15-inch camping hatchet. Each outdoor splitting axe comes with our 1-month free refund & replacement warranty to ensure your shopping satisfaction and worry-free service for you!
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
MLTOOLS Splitting Axe X28A - Camping Axe with Fiberglass Ergonomic Handle, High Carbon Steel Head - Torque & Weatherproof Survival Axes and Hatchets - Non-Slip Grip - Protection Guard & Lock - 28”
-
Chop With Efficiency - Chop and split wood with unparalleled efficiency using our survival axe or survival hatchet! They come in handy when you go hiking, camping, or tend to your garden at home.
-
Tough & Aggressive - The non-detachable heads of each camp axe or camp hatchet stay on the handles no matter the force. They’re made of high carbon steel - perfect for aggressive cutting angles.
-
Non-Slip Handle - Swing with confidence thanks to the top-grade fiberglass handles. Our camping axes & hatchets are shock-absorbent and helps reduce strain even as you keep a tight grip for hours.
-
Long-Lasting Tools - Make room in your shed for an axe for wood splitting that will last you years. These tools are built for the outdoors and can withstand high levels of torque and extreme weather.
-
Easy Carrying & Storage - Always have a wood cutting hatchet ready. You can bring this wood chopping axe anywhere you go because they’re lightweight and come with a protection guard and lock.
How long does it take to sharpen a splitting axe?
The time it takes to sharpen a splitting axe can vary depending on the condition of the axe and the sharpening method used. On average, it may take around 10-30 minutes to sharpen a splitting axe. However, if the axe is very dull or damaged, it may take longer to restore its sharpness.
Should you wear gloves while sharpening a splitting axe?
Yes, it is recommended to wear gloves while sharpening a splitting axe. Wearing gloves will provide protection for your hands from potential cuts and injuries. The sharp edges of the axe can cause accidental slips or miscalculations, leading to accidents. Wearing gloves will also help in grip and provide better control over the axe while sharpening it.
What tools do you need to sharpen a splitting axe?
To sharpen a splitting axe, you will need the following tools:
- Flat mill file or a chainsaw file: This is the primary tool for sharpening the axe. It should have a medium coarse texture and be about 10-12 inches long.
- Vice or a sturdy clamp: This will be used to secure the axe firmly in place during sharpening, ensuring safety and stability.
- Honing stone or whetstone: After filing the axe, a honing stone helps in refining the edge further. It should have a fine or medium grit.
- Lubricant or water: Using a lubricant or plain water prevents the metal from overheating and also helps in removing debris while sharpening.
- Safety equipment: It is crucial to have safety goggles or glasses, gloves, and a protective apron to protect yourself from any potential injuries.
Note: It is important to follow safety guidelines and use the appropriate tools based on your axe type and personal sharpening preferences.
Can you sharpen a splitting axe without a vice?
Yes, you can sharpen a splitting axe without a vice. While a vice can provide stability and make the sharpening process easier, it is not necessarily required. Here are some steps to sharpen a splitting axe without a vice:
- Ensure a stable surface: Find a solid and stable surface to place your axe on, such as a workbench or a large stump.
- Secure the axe: Use your non-dominant hand to firmly hold the handle of the axe near the head. This will provide stability while sharpening.
- Use a sharpening tool: You can use a file, a sharpening stone, or a handheld axe sharpener. Hold the sharpening tool at the correct angle (usually around 20 degrees) and run it along the edge of the axe blade, moving from the base towards the tip. Apply consistent pressure while maintaining the angle.
- Sharpen both sides: Flip the axe over and repeat the process for the other side of the blade. Ensure equal sharpening on both sides.
- Test the sharpness: After sharpening, carefully touch the blade's edge to check its sharpness. Be cautious to avoid cutting yourself.
Remember to follow proper safety precautions while sharpening an axe, such as wearing protective gloves and safety goggles. If you're not confident in your ability to sharpen the axe without a vice, it is always best to use a vice or seek assistance from someone with experience.
