First Impressions of India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe
The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe promises a blend of historical aesthetics and practical functionality. India Made is not a name I typically associate with high-end axes, so my initial impression is cautiously optimistic. I’m eager to see if this budget-friendly offering can deliver on the promise of a versatile and reliable tool, or if it’s merely a decorative piece.
I was searching for a smaller, packable axe for wilderness camping and limbing small branches. I wanted something with the historical appeal of a bearded axe, but without the expense of a custom-forged piece. The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe seemed to strike a balance between affordability and the desired aesthetic.
Unboxing revealed a surprisingly well-proportioned axe. The brown wood handle feels relatively solid, and the axe head, while clearly machine-made, has a decent shape. My initial thought is that the steel might be a bit soft, but I’ll need to put it to the test to confirm.
Compared to a Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe (significantly more expensive) or even a Husqvarna hatchet, the India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe lacks the refined finish and obvious quality. The other axes have a visually different handle to axe head bond. It is much more integrated. This axe is a fraction of the cost, however, so the question is whether it can perform a similar range of tasks. My main decision point was, how does it compare with a Council Tool Wood-Craft Pack Axe? I chose the Viking axe because the blade shape is more useful for carving. The Council Tool axe is more of a splitter.
I’m cautiously excited. It looks the part, and the weight feels good in hand. If it can hold an edge and withstand some moderate use, it could be a great value.
Real-World Testing: Putting India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe on a weekend camping trip in the Allegheny National Forest. The conditions were dry, but the wood was a mix of seasoned hardwoods and some damp softwood. My main tasks were limbing small fallen trees for firewood and splitting some smaller pieces for kindling.
The axe performed adequately for limbing branches up to 2 inches in diameter. The bearded design allowed for controlled cuts close to the ground. However, it struggled a bit with splitting denser hardwoods, requiring more effort than expected.
It was a bit awkward in the hand at first, as the balance is slightly different from what I’m used to. The head-heavy design took some getting used to for finer tasks. After about an hour, I developed a blister on my palm where the handle had a slight imperfection.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe has shown some signs of wear. The edge retention is not great. It requires frequent sharpening, especially after chopping harder woods.
The handle has remained relatively solid, although the finish is starting to wear off. There are no cracks or signs of loosening, which is a positive. However, there are some small chips in the carbon steel. I’ve kept it clean and oiled to prevent rust, and so far, that seems to be working.
Compared to my Wetterlings axe, the India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe is noticeably inferior in terms of edge retention and overall durability. However, it’s also significantly cheaper and serves its purpose as a backup axe or for lighter tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe
Specifications
The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe has the following specifications:
- Overall Length: 17 inches, making it compact and easy to pack.
- Axe Head Length: 6.5 inches, providing a decent striking surface.
- Cutting Edge: 4.75 inches, suitable for various tasks.
- Blade Material: Carbon Steel, offering decent sharpness but requiring regular maintenance. Carbon steel can rust easily, so oiling is key.
- Handle Material: Brown Wood, providing a traditional look and feel.
- Weight: 1.98 lbs (approx. 2 lbs), making it relatively lightweight and portable.
These specifications mean the axe is maneuverable for finer tasks but lacks the power for heavy-duty chopping. The carbon steel requires diligent care to prevent rust, but it is also relatively easy to sharpen in the field.
Performance & Functionality
The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe performs adequately for light to medium tasks. It is useful for limbing branches, creating kindling, and carving. It is a good carving axe!
Its strengths include its compact size, light weight, and the versatility of the bearded design. The weaknesses are its poor edge retention and lack of power for splitting larger logs. Overall, it meets my expectations for a budget-friendly axe but doesn’t exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price point. The axe head is securely attached to the handle, and the overall construction feels reasonably solid. However, the finish is rough. The ergonomics are decent, although the handle could be more contoured for a more comfortable grip.
There is a slight learning curve to using a bearded axe. The balance is different from a traditional axe. But, once you get used to it, it’s fairly user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe should last for several years of occasional use. The carbon steel requires regular oiling to prevent rust, and the edge needs frequent sharpening. Replacing the handle would be relatively straightforward if necessary.
Maintenance is simple. Cleaning and oiling after each use is key.
Accessories and Customization Options
The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe does not come with any accessories. There are few customization options. You could potentially wrap the handle with paracord for a better grip or add a leather sheath for protection.
The eye of the axe head is a fairly standard size, so aftermarket handles may be compatible. However, I have not tested this.
Pros and Cons of India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe
Pros
- Affordable price point, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
- Compact and lightweight design, ideal for backpacking and camping.
- Bearded axe design offers versatility for carving, limbing, and other tasks.
- Decent balance for controlled cuts.
- Aesthetically pleasing, capturing the look of a Viking axe.
Cons
- Poor edge retention; requires frequent sharpening.
- Carbon steel is prone to rust if not properly maintained.
- The handle finish is rough and may cause blisters with extended use.
Who Should Buy India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe?
The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe is perfect for casual campers, hobbyist bushcrafters, and historical re-enactors who need a budget-friendly axe with a Viking aesthetic. It’s also suitable for someone who wants to try out a bearded axe without investing in a more expensive model.
This product should be avoided by those who need a heavy-duty axe for demanding tasks. It is also not suitable for those who prioritize edge retention and require minimal maintenance. You would also want to skip this axe if you are looking for perfection in fit and finish.
A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone and some oil for rust prevention. A leather sheath would also be a worthwhile investment to protect the blade during transport.
Conclusion on India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe
The India Made 17in Viking Bearded Axe is a decent budget option for those seeking a versatile and aesthetically pleasing axe for light to medium tasks. It certainly does not compare to an axe costing 5-10 times as much.
While it has its limitations, such as poor edge retention and the need for frequent maintenance, its affordability and compact size make it a viable option for casual users. The value proposition is fair, considering the price.
I would recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are willing to put in the effort to maintain it. It’s a good entry-level axe for exploring the world of bearded axe designs. If you’re looking for a cheap Viking Axe, this is the place to start.