"Give me six hours to cut down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe." Back when Abraham Lincoln said those words, he was undoubtedly purveying sound advice about the value of preparation. Too bad Abe – who was revered for his ability to split as many rails a day as any three men – never got his hands on a Fiskars Axe.

First off, he'd spend far less time on sharpening, since our drop-forged heads tenaciously hold their edge even as they chew through the flintiest heartwood. He'd admire the finely tuned balance. Appreciate the virtually unbreakable FiberComp™ fiberglass handle, and approve of the artful joinery that locks the head in permanent, wiggle-free position. On second thought, maybe it's a good thing Abe didn't have a Fiskars® Axe, or he might never have gotten around to that career in politics.

• For universal cutting tasks


• For campers, hikers and outdoor people as well as being practical in the car, boat and holiday house


• Blade weight: 470 g


• Weight: 640 g


• Length: 355 mm