Gränsfors Bruk: traditional axes that will last for generations

Reasons to buy a Gränsfors Bruk axe

Gränsfors axes are hand-forged by skilled craftsmen. Production is heavily dependent on the expertise and experience of the blacksmiths. What's unique about Gränsfors is that each blacksmith stamps their own initials into the axe head, so you can see who made your specific axe. In terms of steel, Gränsfors exclusively uses recycled steel by Ovako. The steel they use is carbon steel, meaning it's tough and hard; perfect for axe heads. However, it also means that Gränsfors axes are not very corrosion resistant. Make sure to clean your axe after use and to add a coat of oil every once in a while.

Gränsfors Bruk product types

Gränsfors Bruk forest axes

The forest axes of Gränsfors Bruk are versatile in use. These axes are compact enough to be portable, but large enough to provide a lot of power. Whether you need an axe to split logs or firewood, Gränsfors Bruk forest axes can handle it. This category also includes Gränsfors Bruk hunting axes, trekking axes and bushcraft axes.

Gränsfors Bruk hand axes

Gränsfors Bruk's hand axes are small, lightweight axes for light splitting work or woodworking. They may be less suitable for heavy-duty tasks, but their compact size makes these axes perfect to carry with you on your hikes or when you go camping.

Gränsfors Bruk splitting axes

Gränsfors Bruk splitting axes are large and heavy axes to split or cleave thick logs. With these axes, you'll effortlessly process large pieces of wood into firewood. The axe is expertly forged and features a concave grind that is thin at the edge and becomes more broad towards the back of the axe head. This design ensures that the axe head penetrates deeply into the wood, while the broader part efficiently pushes the wood apart, making splitting easier.

Gränsfors Bruk maintenance

Besides axes, Gränsfors Bruk also offers a variety of accessories to extend the lifespan of your axe. Whether you need a sharpening stone for your axe, leather wax or a complete maintenance kit, Gränsfors Bruk has everything you need to keep your axe in top condition. With these high-quality tools, you can ensure that your axe remains sharp, protected and ready for use.

History of Gränsfors Bruk

Gränsfors Bruk has a rich history that began in 1868 when scythe smith Johan Pettersson moved to Gränsfors with his brother Anders and founded the Gränsfors Scythe Forge. The demand for axes surged due to the growth of logging in northern Sweden. Anders expanded the forge and made it into a specialised axe forge, which formed the basis for Gränsfors Bruk’s axe production in 1902. In 1917, Olof Eriksson took over Gränsfors Bruk and modernised production. The company expanded its markets, particularly into Russia, South America and Canada. However, the introduction of chainsaws in the 1960s and 1970s led to a significant decline in demand for axes. Despite a severe financial crisis in 1982, which resulted in bankruptcy, Gränsfors Bruk recovered after being acquired by Svedbro Smide in 1985. From the 1980s onwards, Gränsfors Bruk focused on quality and craftsmanship, leading to its recovery. Today, the company is one of the leading axe producers in the world, with a strong market presence in 30 countries.