The Basics of Racing Axes (2024)

First up, what is a racing axe?

A racing axe is a specialized axe designed for competitive sport. It's similar to a traditional axe, only it's designed to be lightweight and highly maneuverable. The axe head is usually made of carbon steel and has a curved handle to give the user greater control and power. Racing axes are used in various competitions, such as speed races and accuracy events, where the goal is to complete a course in the shortest possible time. They can also be used in recreational activities, like backyard tree-felling. So, if you're looking for a unique way to challenge yourself and take your axe games to the next level, then racing axes are the way to go!


Accuracy
Racing axes are designed with accuracy in mind. They are lightweight and highly maneuverable, with a curved handle that allows for greater control and power. The axe head is usually made of carbon steel, which is more durable and precise than other metals. Additionally, the shape of the axe head is designed to reduce drag and improve accuracy. Finally, the grip on the handle helps to ensure precise placement when throwing the axe. All of these features combine to make racing axes perfect for accuracy-based competitions.


Speed
Racing axes are designed to be lightweight and highly maneuverable, which makes them perfect for speed events. The curved handle allows for greater control and power, while the shape of the axe head reduces drag and improves speed. Additionally, the grip on the handle helps to ensure a quick and precise throw. All of these features combine to make racing axes ideal for speed events where accuracy and speed are both important.


Power & Control
Racing axes are designed with power and control in mind. The curved handle provides better grip and control, while the shape of the axe head reduces drag and improves accuracy. Additionally, the axe head is usually made from carbon steel, which is more durable and precise than other metals. Finally, the grip on the handle helps to ensure a quick and precise throw. All of these features combine to give racing axes superior power and control.

Common uses
Racing axes are most commonly used in competitive sports, such as speed races and accuracy events. Racers must complete a course in the shortest possible time, while also maintaining accuracy and precision. Racing axes can also be used recreationally, such as in backyard tree-felling activities. Additionally, they can be used in traditional lumberjack competitions and in practice sessions to improve accuracy and speed. Finally, racing axes are often used in wood carving and woodworking to create intricate designs and shapes.

Looking after your axe
Caring for a racing axe is important to ensure its longevity and performance. To clean the axe, use a damp cloth and mild soapy water to remove any dirt or debris. Be sure to dry the axe completely after cleaning. It is also important to regularly sharpen the axe head to ensure maximum efficiency. Additionally, store the axe in a dry place and away from any extreme temperatures. Finally, inspect the axe regularly for any signs of damage or wear and tear. With proper care, your racing axe should last you for years to come.

The Basics of Racing Axes (1)

Keep it boxed up
A racing box is the ideal storage solution for a racing axe. It helps to keep the axe safe and secure, while also protecting it from dirt, dust, and moisture. Additionally, a racing box makes it easier to transport the axe to and from competitions or practice sessions. It also helps to keep the axe organized and easily accessible. Finally, a racing box can be used to store other racing tools, such as spare parts and accessories. Keeping a racing axe in a racing box is the best way to ensure that it stays in top condition.

The Basics of Racing Axes (2024)

FAQs

What is the best weight for a felling axe? ›

Felling Axes

The larger the axe, the bigger the job. Felling axes are made for chopping down large trees or splitting large pieces of wood. These axes have a length in the range of 32 to 36 inches and usually weigh at least 3 pounds, giving you the necessary energy to cut through thick wood without tiring.

What is the best size camp axe? ›

The best camp axe, in my opinion, is a small boy's axe with 1.5 to 2.25-pound Dayton head and a 20 to 25-inch handle.

What is the best shape for an axe head? ›

The convex ax head profile works best for general chopping purposes. The sharpened edge severs wood fibers and, as the cut- ting edge severs the fibers, the main body of the ax enters the wood. With a convex-shaped head, the sides of the ax provide a wedge to split the wood (figure 8–12).

What is the best handle length for a felling AXE? ›

Handles come in a variety of lengths, typically from 32 to 36 inches for 3- to 6-pound axes (Figure 38). Often the longer lengths work best for big timber and for splitting wood, while the shorter lengths are superior for smaller timber and general utility work.

Should a felling AXE be sharp? ›

Sharpness of axes

The edge of a splitting axe is straight and undamaged but doesn't have to be sharp. A felling axe needs to be sharp to be functional. A trekking axe needs to be very sharp to remove a lot of material. A carving axe needs to be razor-sharp.

Is a splitting axe better than a maul? ›

The splitting axes can be used for a variety of tasks outside only cutting wood. When manually splitting the thickest and heaviest wood, mauls are of great assistance. Digging deeply into the wood is made simpler by the additional weight. Softwood can be split in half with just one blow from the splitting maul.

What is the secret to AXE throwing? ›

Flare your hands out and follow through with your arms like you are throwing dust or mud at the wall. Keep your elbows straighter. Move your grip lower on the axe. Lean forward when releasing the axe, throw hands toward the target and follow through bringing your arms down past your legs.

What is the hole in an axe head called? ›

Either side of the head is called the cheek, which is sometimes supplemented by lugs where the head meets the haft, and the hole where the haft is mounted is called the eye.

What is a long-handled axe called? ›

Felling Axes

A felling axe features a long handle and head weighing several pounds. The felling axe's long handle gives the user more leverage, allowing them to swing with more power and make a better cut. Felling axe handles have traditionally been made of hickory wood, one of the strongest woods available.

What is a curved axe called? ›

Adze. The adze, a type of axe, features a curved blade that is perpendicular to the handle. It is commonly utilized in woodworking and timber framing for shaping wood, such as carving or hollowing out logs. Additionally, the adze can be employed to smooth surfaces or remove bark from trees.

What is the best axe for felling trees? ›

Fiskars Chopping Axe

The 28-inch handle and sharp blade lend enough power to make quick work of the 6 to 10-inch trees we cut down. This axe is also light and compact enough to work in the small spaces and awkward positions that felling trees requires. It serves as a passable tool for putting up firewood as well.

What is a good weight for a carving axe? ›

Weight. A carving axe needs to be light enough so we can carve for a while and not get fatigued, also heavy enough so the chopping action is efficient thanks to weight of the head but still allows us to have good aim. For me, the sweet spot is around 650 grams (1.5 lb.).

Is a lighter or heavier axe better? ›

When choosing an axe, the first question is whether you want to split bigger or smaller pieces of wood. Splitting axe blades are typically heavier, best for splitting large and medium size logs. Longer shafts give more speed and power.

What is the best wood for felling AXE handle? ›

Hickory, ash, and maple are all good options due to their strength, durability, and ability to absorb shock. Other woods, such as oak, birch, and beech, may also be suitable, but may not offer the same level of strength and shock-absorption.

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