Our axes are individually forged by hand using a drop hammer on open dies. The blacksmith works on a drop forge, using tongs to hold the hot steel as a hammer falls repeatedly onto it. The drop hammer runs continuously at remarkable speed, requiring a highly skilled and time-tested smith. The hand-eye coordination and judgment required for this process can only come from years of experience, as every split-second decision ultimately affects the shape and integrity of the final product.
An important factor to consider when evaluating the quality of an axe. The steel must be tempered just right, without being too soft to hold an edge or hard enough to become brittle. Helko's Master Smiths have cumulatively spent hundreds of years perfecting the hardness and temper of our axes, creating an ideal balance between superior edge holding ability, ease of sharpening, and resistance to chipping.
The quality of the handle is also a significant measure of the tool’s integrity. Helko handles are proudly crafted from sustainably sourced Grade A American hickory. Helko promotes environmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economically prosperous management of the world's forests.
Our Leather Sheaths are made from vegetable tanned, full grain, cowhide leather. We install a heavy duty welt in all of our sheaths, which is an added strip of leather that rests against the blade, for maximum blade protection. The buckle fasteners are nickel plated with an adjustable strap that will always ensure a snug fit, even if the leather stretches over time.
The majority of handle damage starts at the neck, either from miss swings or normal wear and tear. Handle collars protect the neck, significantly increasing handle longevity and durability. They are comfortable to use, easy to tie, and give your axe an authentic, premium appearance. The collar is fastened with an included leather lace which may be readjusted anytime, to ensure a tight fit.
Our Standard Axe Maintenance Kits cover the core basics for axe care and maintenance. Sharpening and oiling. All parts are made in Germany and the USA.
Our signature Leather Goods and Accessories include an assortment of top quality care products. All of our leather and tool accessories are proudly made in the USA from premium materials and designed to safeguard your axe for a lifetime of enjoyment.
Helko Classic Line
Combine versatility, performance, and aesthetics to create a premium line of pristine working axes.
Helko Traditional Line
Premium collection of hand forged German heritage axes, handcrafted by one of Helko’s Master Smiths.
Helko Vario 2000
All Vario heads, handles, and fastening components are fully interchangeable and inter-compatible.
Made in the USA
Top quality outdoor and travel gear, proudly handmade in the USA and built to last a lifetime.
Made in the USA
Handmade in the USA from full grain, vegetable tanned cowhide leather.
Durable Adjustable and Stylish - Protects Your Axe Head for Life
Long-Lasting Handle Protection
Durable adjustable leather straps to showcase your prized possessions
Clean and maintain your axe and accessories regularly and they will last a lifetime.
Helko Werk Axe Guard Head and Handle Oil
Helko Werk Axe Guard Head and Handle Wax
Helko Werk Axe Stone and Sharpening File
Helko Werk Leather Oil and Paste. Use on sheaths, collars, rolls, or any leather item you own.
| Customer Reviews | 4.7 out of 5 stars 28 | 4.7 out of 5 stars 28 | 4.5 out of 5 stars 329 | 4.7 out of 5 stars 1,179 | 4.6 out of 5 stars 703 | 4.6 out of 5 stars 282 | 4.5 out of 5 stars 47 |
| Price | $195.00$195.00 | $155.00$155.00 | $85.00$85.00 | $26.00$26.00 | $27.00$27.00 | $25.00$25.00 | $20.00$20.00 |
| Best Use | Complete Axe Care Set | Premium Axe Set | Standard Set | Made in USA | Available for Axes or Hatchets | Wall Mount for Any Axe | Long Lasting Protection |
| Contains | Sharpening Stone and File | Sharpening Stone and File | Made in Germany and the USA | Genuine Leather | Genuine Leather | — | Prevents Corrosion |
| Contains | Axe Guard Blade & Handle Oil | Axe Guard Blade & Handle Oil | Dual Sided Sharpening Stone | Heavy Duty Fit | Fits Most Axes | Brass Hardware | Use on All Tools |
| Contains | Axe Head & Handle Paste | Dual Side Sharpening Stone | Compact Sharpening File | Moisture Treated | Handmade in the USA | Handmade in the USA | 4 fl oz |
| Contains | Oil Rag, Sandpaper and Wax | Leather Oil/Wax *Deluxe Only* | Axe Guard Head Oil | Reduces Injury | Tough & Tick | Easy to Mount | Use on all metal surfaces |
| Contains | Exclusive Leather Carry Case | Exclusive Leather Carry Case | Axe Guard Handle Oil | Nickel Plated Rivets | Prevents Axe Handle Damage | — | Honing & Sharpening oil |