When might we be able to get a review of this axe from you? I was going to order a different brand today, but would like to hold off now that I've seen this one. Might change my mind!
seeing high quality leather work like that gives me the willies!!! and all USA made as well ... Wow. worth saving for. I've finally been able too buy some items from your store and your right, top quality is amazing and not really much more. thanks much and blessings sir!!
Bush craft to me sounds like things you do with a bush like make a basket and what ever else you can make from a bush. Wood craft to me is all the things you can do with wood including making a basket from a bush. Thanks for bring Wood crafting back. Have a day
Bushcraft doesn't really apply in America (as far as I know) because you have woods there right? Where I'm from we have thorny bush and wet forest. No woods
+Cameron Reid This is just me I find the name Bush craft limited. Are you only talking about things you can do, make from a bush or are you doing things with parts of a tree as well, and if you are talking about trees thats woods craft. And most videos I see online people are working on both so when i see Bush craft in the title and see people working on a tree limb that is where i find the word a let down. Now if you have a video about Bush Craft and it was dealing with things to do with a bush then thats perfect. And the same goes with Woods craft. It would be nice to see the use of the word that goes with the location and the job at hand. In Canada I would say i was going into the Woods. That maybe different in other countries where they would say they are going into the Bush and thats where the knives come from and that where the term started. This i do not know would be interesting to see where the name came from. The problem comes from how i use a word where i am from and how other people use a word where they are from. This is not really for me a major problem just an interesting discussion of the meaning of words to people in other countries.
Glad to see you working with Council Tool. I got their Forest Service axe w/ a similar full mask about a year ago and it is the best axe I've ever owned.
i love the profile of that axe head. nice wedge profile with a narrower bit, and scalloped to reduce weight/ friction. If that isn't one of the prettiest Rockaway style heads I've seen i don't know what is.
I wish I had this today. I had a 45 foot blue spruce come down. Halfway through processing the poles. Munching its flowers as I go. The trunk is oozing sap into cups.
I’m glad to see a quality axe still made in the US. I’ll get one to compare to my Swedish (Gransfor Bruks) and New Zealand made (Tuatahi Trapper). If the US isn’t the quality of the others, I’ll pass on any future purchases. I’ll buy quality wherever it’s made. Just like I prefer German sporter 22 rifles (Anschutz). If there was a better one made in the US I’d buy it.
Dave, I like the way that you are trying to restore our heritage of "Woodcraft" and being a "Woodsman"! "Bushman" live in other countries.....;) Great review, I would add one of these axes to my ODE in a pair of seconds!
Thank you for a great video, it shows what Made in America can be without Rule and Regs destroying it. Keep the good videos coming and the advice that you impart.
+imbadwrench The sling and strap are made to be weather resistant...the sling is made of Biothane, which is a rubber coated nylon webbing that is used in place of leather for driving and riding lines for horse tack very durable and low maintenance , and the velvro is easy to replace and will adjust to different thicknesses of handles, since the sling can be used on larger axes if a sheath is made or purchased...just thinking through to future uses... Peace, Rooster
I have both and with my current experience I would say you have made the right decision. The council is a beautiful axe the handle is Devine and the leather is superb. The strap is so thick it could safely double as reins to control a horse. But I'm far from happy with its ability of holding an edge. I've been told mine shall be replaced but I'll believe it when I see it.
Give us an update when you get your replacement axe.... a few axes of a certain run had intermittent heat-treating issues that Council is rectifying... the one I have is top-notch !!
My first thought is that most things that axe would probably be around is bad for velcro. You have to keep velcro really clean to keep from wearing it out. Everything else about the rig looks great.
Hey Dave. How do you go about putting the measurement marks on your axes? I have a Wetterlings Scandinavian Forest axe and would like to add the measurement marks to it. Also, Could you recommend where I can get a sheath similar to the one in this video for my axe?
Question on the measurement marks. How would you recommend adding them to an axe? Wood burning kit, or improvised version of it with hot metal from a fire is what comes to mind unless theres a better way. I'm certainly not going to notch the spine of my axe handle! Lol. Great vid, and hope one of these days I can afford a better axe. Damned bills get in the way of my dirt time and toys!
+wildernessoutfitters, do you have a specific video that talks about the ax measurements you have on your axes? I noticed the markers on your axes from videos years ago as well but never watched a video about the importance of it or other "rules of thumb" to go by. Thanks!
Nice review, just found this today. The big Question is the current standard bearer of axe's this size is the Gransfors Bruks, it seams to me that the Council Tools Woodcraft axe is a direct response by a excellent American tool company. Honestly I would love to see a side to side comparison of the two axes. However I think my mind is made up and for me and it America first
Many would agree that GB is still at the top for popularity... But it is Council's desire to give customers who appreciate American made products an option to buy something that proudly says "Made in USA"... The Wood-Craft Pack Axe is the first and flag-ship of a new line of premium axes, but it was not designed to go head to head with any one axe in the market, but be unique and innovative, ...while adding features that customers will find useful... People will always want to do comparisons, but the Pack Axe was designed to stand apart from the others... Peace, Rooster
Hey Dave, I live right down the road from council tools, If I got up with them to do a video on how the axes are made would you be interested in posting it? Its something Ive been thinking about doing anyways, but I don't really post videos and such.
Dave I had a issue. I am looking to start camping. I am not in great health but want to try to get in better health. I watch every video you put out.You inspire me to get started. but my problem is I am not able to afford the equipment.. can you please show me how I can get started? in a cheaper way. I know you get what you pay ford. I thought about going to harbor freight to get an ave but I heard they are junk. I want something that will last but I can afford. the same as the rest of the equipment I will need. Can you please help me out to find the equipment. Thank you Joel
looks like a rooster design hahah the good people in axe junkies are true craftsman. put that rooster head on a Jesse reed handle and you have a price of art.
has council tool up their Rockwell hardness? 57-58rc would be awesome! their 54-57 is lower than gransfor bruks, I think they loose sales because of this. I think if they did this, they could/would surpass GB
+non yobussiness Just saw a member from Axe Junkies on FB post damage to the edge on his. Not normal wear and tear by any means. Not trying to defame based on just one poor review, but starting to see a trend. I was sure thinking about one. As for now, I'm out. Sticking with the vintage US or current Swedish stuff.
+Mark Stiles I had the same issue. Council Tool have sent me an email stating that the edge heat treatment process was flawed and that they will be replacing any defective axes. Mine is due next week and they have been fantastic in following through with their word. I can't wait for my replacement as it truly is an impressive axe to hold and use.
Sounds great. Sincerely hoping we can have a real contender in an American made axe. Seeing as how they are hitting the same price point as the Swedes, I'm hoping they can match the quality. Let us know.
+Living Survival The sling and strap are made to be weather resistant...the sling is made of Biothane, which is a rubber coated nylon webbing that is used in place of leather for driving and riding lines for horse tack very durable and low maintenance , and the velvro is easy to replace and will adjust to different thicknesses of handles, since the sling can be used on larger axes if a sheath is made or purchased...just thinking through to future uses... Peace, Rooster
+Living Survival I was told they wanted to use that mask for several makes and models of council axes. its riveted on if you choose to make it a "one Axe" sling and add a strip of 10 oz leather and a snap. .
I like the whole deal. But, I think they made a mistake with the velcro. You have a premium traditional product and you put a piece of velcro on the strap. Just my opinion but I think a buckle or a snap there would be a better choice. JMO!
+Landon Ashby (pure mahem) The velcro is heavy duty, weather resistant, and reduces the cost of the sling....it also allows the same sling to be used on any number of sheath and axe size options...so that it can fit any diameter/thickness of handle....the end user can upgrade and modify the sling to their own preference.. Peace, Rooster :)
+wildernessoutfitters I'm pulling the trigger on one with the works the better sheath and leather sling. I was between the G B 25" or the Hults Kisa 26" but I think this will be plenty even in the winter in the Buckeye Nation Go Buckeyes. and ofcource your recomandation.
I mean no disrespect by saying this but for $100+ for a axe I will just go with a Gransfor Bruks Axe. Light and by far the best possible axe out there.
An "axe company" you've never heard of? Then you're not an axe man. Council Tool has been making axes for the Forest Service since before Smokey Bear was a gleam in Papa Bear's eye. I'm not an axe man and I've heard of 'em....
Dave, Is the axe actually made in the USA. I watched the video twice... and listened very closely... you are careful to say American Companies... but you never say if the Axe is actually manufactured in the United States... using American Labor. That's a big deal to me, others may not really care, but I am trying really hard to support American workers.
+Michael Morris Yes, American Company, using American sourced materials, made in USA with American labor force....family run business for 130 years...It's why I contacted them to see if they would be interested in making an axe that would give guys an option to buy American Quality... Peace, Rooster
+AdirondackArcher ....not sure if it should be "instead of"... the Velvicuts come in what I believe is a 4lbs. Dayton Single-bit, a 2 1/4 lbs. Dayton Boys Axe, and a 1 3/4 lbs. Hudson Bay with 2 handle options... so the Hudson Bay is the closest in size, but does not have a hardened poll, it has a convex bit grind/ bevels instead of the 25 deg. flat grind, the eye is shorter in the Hudson Bay, and it is brushed/ polished instead of blackened.....so they are not really comparable...so maybe get both and sell the one you like least...eh? Peace, Rooster
Freaking Dave bringing back an American name to an American axe company. What a guy. I was already sold but now I'm 100% ordering one haha.
Love that an American company has finally stepped up and made a QUALITY axe! Great name as well. I will be getting one of these ! Thanks for showing.
Thanks David for sharing this new axe with us.
C
When might we be able to get a review of this axe from you? I was going to order a different brand today, but would like to hold off now that I've seen this one. Might change my mind!
hopefully one day you design an axe/hatchet. you could name it after heartracer.
I was about to say the same thing, we'd love to see this reviewed!
It's about time, great job Dave. Glad to see American companies finally catching on...Woodcraft for the win!
seeing high quality leather work like that gives me the willies!!! and all USA made as well ... Wow. worth saving for. I've finally been able too buy some items from your store and your right, top quality is amazing and not really much more. thanks much and blessings sir!!
Bush craft to me sounds like things you do with a bush like make a basket and what ever else you can make from a bush.
Wood craft to me is all the things you can do with wood including making a basket from a bush.
Thanks for bring Wood crafting back.
Have a day
Bushcraft doesn't really apply in America (as far as I know) because you have woods there right? Where I'm from we have thorny bush and wet forest. No woods
+Cameron Reid This is just me I find the name Bush craft limited. Are you only talking about things you can do, make from a bush or are you doing things with parts of a tree as well, and if you are talking about trees thats woods craft. And most videos I see online people are working on both so when i see Bush craft in the title and see people working on a tree limb that is where i find the word a let down. Now if you have a video about Bush Craft and it was dealing with things to do with a bush then thats perfect. And the same goes with Woods craft. It would be nice to see the use of the word that goes with the location and the job at hand. In Canada I would say i was going into the Woods. That maybe different in other countries where they would say they are going into the Bush and thats where the knives come from and that where the term started.
This i do not know would be interesting to see where the name came from. The problem comes from how i use a word where i am from and how other people use a word where they are from. This is not really for me a major problem just an interesting discussion of the meaning of words to people in other countries.
+E Hiebert in the word "bushcraft" I'm quite sure bush is referring to a specific type of environment, not a specific type of plant.
I may have just found that 1 piece of kit I've been holding back on purchasing.
Thanks Dave.
I like everything about it, fron the name, the design to the slign. Just plain cool! Thank you for sharing, apreciated.
Wow I didn't know you did a review too, I beat the SNOT out of that thing and it took every bit of it. Good video Dave! glad to be a part of it all.
Glad to see you working with Council Tool. I got their Forest Service axe w/ a similar full mask about a year ago and it is the best axe I've ever owned.
i love the profile of that axe head. nice wedge profile with a narrower bit, and scalloped to reduce weight/ friction. If that isn't one of the prettiest Rockaway style heads I've seen i don't know what is.
I wish I had this today. I had a 45 foot blue spruce come down. Halfway through processing the poles. Munching its flowers as I go. The trunk is oozing sap into cups.
thats a cool idea easy to carry into the woods great axe handle and head great axe mask design looks likw an overall great piece of gear
An axe video from Dave and Wranglerstar in one day? Its going to be a good day.
Cool looking axe Dave! Thanks for the share!
That is one sweet set up... very woodcrafty!
I’m glad to see a quality axe still made in the US. I’ll get one to compare to my Swedish (Gransfor Bruks) and New Zealand made (Tuatahi Trapper). If the US isn’t the quality of the others, I’ll pass on any future purchases. I’ll buy quality wherever it’s made. Just like I prefer German sporter 22 rifles (Anschutz). If there was a better one made in the US I’d buy it.
Thank you for showing us this new Axe Dave
Nice looking axe and sheath. If I wear out my Husquvarna Forest axe I will be looking for one of these. Thanks Dave.
Dave, I like the way that you are trying to restore our heritage of "Woodcraft" and being a "Woodsman"! "Bushman" live in other countries.....;) Great review, I would add one of these axes to my ODE in a pair of seconds!
American made all the way around? You bet this is on my wish list!! Thanks Dave.
Thank you for a great video, it shows what Made in America can be without Rule and Regs destroying it. Keep the good videos coming and the advice that you impart.
I'm gonna have to call shenanigans on the velcro for traditional axe carry.
+imbadwrench and snap buttons
+imbadwrench lol
Same here, but I can't complain too much. Still good to have durable, affordable stuff.
+imbadwrench The sling and strap are made to be weather resistant...the sling is made
of Biothane, which is a rubber coated nylon webbing that is used in
place of leather for driving and riding lines for horse tack very
durable and low maintenance , and the velvro is easy to replace and will
adjust to different thicknesses of handles, since the sling can be used
on larger axes if a sheath is made or purchased...just thinking through
to future uses... Peace, Rooster
Very interesting, and although a bit out of my budget at the moment, I will be thinking about it. And the scalloping on the axe head makes sense.
I like Rufus cruising thru at the start of the video. I guess he was hoping it was a cooking vid and there would be something to eat. Nice axe BTW.
Great job Dave! Can't wait to get one!
Great video! Huge fan Dave. Way to promote American made and quality
Great axe and great review I hope they sell a lot
Great American product !!!
I love my council tools boys axe! I might have to look into this one.
I just bought the Gränsfors Bruks small Forest Axe. just my luck, this Axe looks amazing Dave awesome video thank you for the information my friend.
I have both and with my current experience I would say you have made the right decision.
The council is a beautiful axe the handle is Devine and the leather is superb. The strap is so thick it could safely double as reins to control a horse.
But I'm far from happy with its ability of holding an edge.
I've been told mine shall be replaced but I'll believe it when I see it.
Give us an update when you get your replacement axe.... a few axes of a certain run had intermittent heat-treating issues that Council is rectifying... the one I have is top-notch !!
+ben wheatley
I have been told my replacement will be sent out next week.
Big respect to Council Tool for standing by their product.
great vid dave I'm going to buy one of those when they come out
sou muito fan do seu trabalho, te acompanho desde desafio em dose dupla da discovery. você tem muitos admiradores no Brasil.
Looks brilliant
nice looking outfit...wish i was not already axe poor.....from a fellow woodcrafter of old...woods
This is very close o the old boy scout axe which was always a favorite of mine.
Its a pretty nice axe, reminds me of the Condor cloudburst axe, but with much better lines.
That is truly a nice setup
Already on the gotta haveit list!! Made in USA means A LOT to me.
Thanks David, I want to order this today
Wow wranglestar watches too 😱😜
My first thought is that most things that axe would probably be around is bad for velcro. You have to keep velcro really clean to keep from wearing it out. Everything else about the rig looks great.
Hey Dave. How do you go about putting the measurement marks on your axes? I have a Wetterlings Scandinavian Forest axe and would like to add the measurement marks to it. Also, Could you recommend where I can get a sheath similar to the one in this video for my axe?
Question on the measurement marks. How would you recommend adding them to an axe? Wood burning kit, or improvised version of it with hot metal from a fire is what comes to mind unless theres a better way. I'm certainly not going to notch the spine of my axe handle! Lol. Great vid, and hope one of these days I can afford a better axe. Damned bills get in the way of my dirt time and toys!
That's a beautiful tool
Thanks Dave.
+wildernessoutfitters, do you have a specific video that talks about the ax measurements you have on your axes? I noticed the markers on your axes from videos years ago as well but never watched a video about the importance of it or other "rules of thumb" to go by. Thanks!
I'll stick to my Gransfors but I have to admit that the sheath looked awesome.
Would you recommend this over a gransfors?
thats a sweet looking axe
Nice review, just found this today. The big Question is the current standard bearer of axe's this size is the Gransfors Bruks, it seams to me that the Council Tools Woodcraft axe is a direct response by a excellent American tool company. Honestly I would love to see a side to side comparison of the two axes. However I think my mind is made up and for me and it America first
Many would agree that GB is still at the top for popularity... But it is Council's desire to give customers who appreciate American made products an option to buy something that proudly says "Made in USA"... The Wood-Craft Pack Axe is the first and flag-ship of a new line of premium axes, but it was not designed to go head to head with any one axe in the market, but be unique and innovative, ...while adding features that customers will find useful... People will always want to do comparisons, but the Pack Axe was designed to stand apart from the others... Peace, Rooster
I automatically need 3 of these
Very nice!
Mine will be here in 4 days...thanks for the review
Looks great!
What do you think about carbon fiber handles for a axe?
looks great!!
Woodcraft is a much better American term. 👍
+738wmb ABSOLUTELY 100%!
Love It.................
Any idea when they will be avail again on the website Dave? Went to go purchase but says out of stock
Nice Axe ..
Good vid bro. Thanx!!!
Do u oil your axe handle? If so what do u use? Just received mine in the mail
I'm curious, what tool did you use to carve the ruler on the axe?
Is the hardware on the sheath and sling stainless steel?
Dave: How's that water desalinator coming? Any release date or price yet?
you are great old men. I look up to you. you are the steongest!
Dave, did you make the chair you were sitting in?
So much for the common man am not rich it's out of this common man's richness I do love it be great for my 4 wheeler to clean trail
How does it compare to a Norlund?
Awesome!
Hey Dave, I live right down the road from council tools, If I got up with them to do a video on how the axes are made would you be interested in posting it? Its something Ive been thinking about doing anyways, but I don't really post videos and such.
Dave
I had a issue. I am looking to start camping. I am not in great health but want to try to get in better health. I watch every video you put out.You inspire me to get started. but my problem is I am not able to afford the equipment.. can you please show me how I can get started? in a cheaper way. I know you get what you pay ford. I thought about going to harbor freight to get an ave but I heard they are junk. I want something that will last but I can afford. the same as the rest of the equipment I will need. Can you please help me out to find the equipment.
Thank you
Joel
Dam Dave! Stop making me want to buy stuff. I want, no, need this tool. lol
looks like a rooster design hahah the good people in axe junkies are true craftsman. put that rooster head on a Jesse reed handle and you have a price of art.
Nice rig for $208.65 before taxes and shipping
What is the cutting edge length? Can not find that information anywhere? Can you help me out.
has council tool up their Rockwell hardness? 57-58rc would be awesome! their 54-57 is lower than gransfor bruks, I think they loose sales because of this. I think if they did this, they could/would surpass GB
They need to up the hardness. It's been a constant critism of their product from back in 2011.
+non yobussiness Just saw a member from Axe Junkies on FB post damage to the edge on his. Not normal wear and tear by any means. Not trying to defame based on just one poor review, but starting to see a trend. I was sure thinking about one. As for now, I'm out. Sticking with the vintage US or current Swedish stuff.
I have no clue why they don't up the edge hardness.
+Mark Stiles
I had the same issue.
Council Tool have sent me an email stating that the edge heat treatment process was flawed and that they will be replacing any defective axes. Mine is due next week and they have been fantastic in following through with their word.
I can't wait for my replacement as it truly is an impressive axe to hold and use.
Sounds great. Sincerely hoping we can have a real contender in an American made axe. Seeing as how they are hitting the same price point as the Swedes, I'm hoping they can match the quality. Let us know.
Can someone tell me or can Dave do a video on that tent set up behind him?
What makes a $150 axe worth it over a $50 axe?
www.selfrelianceoutfitters.com/wood-craft-pack-axe-heavy-duty-sheath/
www.selfrelianceoutfitters.com/pack-axe-shoulder-sling/
www.selfrelianceoutfitters.com/wood-craft-pack-axe-24/
www.selfrelianceoutfitters.com/wood-craft-pack-axe-19/
Just an FYI. The SRO pages aren't formatted properly for an iPhone. Had a hard time viewing the images for the sheath.
looks like i'm going to get a new axe very soon
Nice.
Dave Holy good God long time no see
Couldn't you also use the sling to attach it to MOLLE on your pack?
Хороший топор и выглядит красиво
That’s my axe!
Is there a particular reason for the velcro vs a leather retention strap with snap?
+Living Survival Not my design brother, but seems effective for now, that is a question for Council Tool
+Living Survival The sling and strap are made to be weather resistant...the sling is made of Biothane, which is a rubber coated nylon webbing that is used in place of leather for driving and riding lines for horse tack very durable and low maintenance , and the velvro is easy to replace and will adjust to different thicknesses of handles, since the sling can be used on larger axes if a sheath is made or purchased...just thinking through to future uses... Peace, Rooster
Axe Junkies Ahh...ok that is what I was looking for, knew there was probably a reason. Thanks!
Axe Junkies Just sub'd btw :)
+Living Survival I was told they wanted to use that mask for several makes and models of council axes. its riveted on if you choose to make it a "one Axe" sling and add a strip of 10 oz leather and a snap. .
their website states between 47-55 Rockwell hardness. they need to raise it. that's what Edward Deming would do!
I like the whole deal. But, I think they made a mistake with the velcro. You have a premium traditional product and you put a piece of velcro on the strap. Just my opinion but I think a buckle or a snap there would be a better choice. JMO!
+Landon Ashby (pure mahem) The velcro is heavy duty, weather resistant, and reduces the cost of the sling....it also allows the same sling to be used on any number of sheath and axe size options...so that it can fit any diameter/thickness of handle....the end user can upgrade and modify the sling to their own preference.. Peace, Rooster :)
i think ill stick with my gransfors i believe they make the best axes out just my opinion
life procivouse
When will you have it in your store ?
Had them since this video was posted brother
Great, Thanx, Dave, I was going to get the Scandinavian Forest Axe, But this looks mighty fine.
+wildernessoutfitters I'm pulling the trigger on one with the works the better sheath and leather sling. I was between the G B 25" or the Hults Kisa 26" but I think this will be plenty even in the winter in the Buckeye Nation Go Buckeyes. and ofcource your recomandation.
Want!!!
I would be interested if it were not a Hudson Bay design head.
I mean no disrespect by saying this but for $100+ for a axe I will just go with a Gransfor Bruks Axe. Light and by far the best possible axe out there.
+LilFluffBall Cant Argue, but availability is soon to become a major issue
Who am I going to trust a company that everyone recommends or a axe company I have never heard of nor ever seen a axe used?
An "axe company" you've never heard of? Then you're not an axe man. Council Tool has been making axes for the Forest Service since before Smokey Bear was a gleam in Papa Bear's eye. I'm not an axe man and I've heard of 'em....
I imagine they both cut wood.
Yup.
links working fine
Dave, Is the axe actually made in the USA. I watched the video twice... and listened very closely... you are careful to say American Companies... but you never say if the Axe is actually manufactured in the United States... using American Labor. That's a big deal to me, others may not really care, but I am trying really hard to support American workers.
+Michael Morris Yes, American Company, using American sourced materials, made in USA with American labor force....family run business for 130 years...It's why I contacted them to see if they would be interested in making an axe that would give guys an option to buy American Quality... Peace, Rooster
Council Tool axes are made in the USA.
why should I buy this instead of the velvicut?
+AdirondackArcher ....not sure if it should be "instead of"... the Velvicuts come in what I believe is a 4lbs. Dayton Single-bit, a 2 1/4 lbs. Dayton Boys Axe, and a 1 3/4 lbs. Hudson Bay with 2 handle options... so the Hudson Bay is the closest in size, but does not have a hardened poll, it has a convex bit grind/ bevels instead of the 25 deg. flat grind, the eye is shorter in the Hudson Bay, and it is brushed/ polished instead of blackened.....so they are not really comparable...so maybe get both and sell the one you like least...eh? Peace, Rooster
What size axe is that
+combat Outdoorsman The one Dave is showing in the video is just under 24" and a 2 lbs. head...it also comes in a 19" handle...
getting...