'Norden' Utility Axe - N10; Fiskars

After splitting some stubborn birch logs, the clean chop of this axe was a pleasant surprise for its size. It's light enough to swing all afternoon without tiring my arms.

The wood handle feels so well-finished in the hand, and it’s perfectly balanced for chopping without any jarring vibration. Cuts through firewood knots cleaner than my old hatchet ever did.

I've been using this axe for splitting kindling, and the blade holds its edge remarkably well after about a dozen sessions. The balance is just right for one-handed limbing work, which surprised me for a tool this size.