Treating a Gransfors Bruks Axe

[Cody]

I know the basics on how to treat the axe, but I can never find a straight-forward or detailed description. So I'd like to hear it from you guys.

I've had a Scandinavian Forest Axe for some time, and am looking for some people's views on to treat both the handle and the blade material. What types of oils, techniques, etc., would you recommend?

For what it's worth, I'll note that the possibility of working with it in wet weather is definitely relevant.

Also, when it comes to sharpening an axe, if you feel you've got something important / useful to share, go for it. You can never know enough about edge maintenance :D . But I'm mostly looking for the handle and steel maintenance. Thanks guys. Cody

[eraaij]

A couple of coats of boiled linseed oil to start with. Let each one dry. Befoer applying the new one. And then a yearly maintenance coating.

Mixing up boiled lineseed with a bit of turpentine beforehand is something I hear used too. It is supposed to impregnate the handle a bit better. I never did that.

-Emile

[HillBill]

How do you sharpen your axe?

[launditch1]

As its been said before linseed oil is good handle treatment,keeps the wood 'fed' in good order.As for the axe itself,after use clean the sap off by dipping some fine wire wool in a light lubricating oil and clean the head all over with it.Wipe with a dry rag...Thats how i do mine anyway.:)

[JonathanD]

I use Ren Wax on the head. Pretty much protects the whole head from moisture all year round and doesn't come off easily in use, except for the blade of course. Very minimal care needed if you coat it with four or five thin polished layers.

I use linseed oil on the shaft too once a year.

[NatG]

just use the axe and the handle will be naturally sealed from the oils in your hands and sweat, for the head just make sure that it's relatively clean before you put it wawy in it's sheath and don't store it wet or damp. Give the whole lot a rub over with some sort of oil every now and then, i've used veg oil with no ill effects.

[Cody]

Thanks a lot for all the posts & insight guys. I'm much better off than I was before!

[VirusKiller]

Axe sharpening: http://www.bushcraftuk.com/index.php/Skills-General/How-to-Sharpen-an-Axe.html