What Is A Double Sided Axe Called (Name, Types & Benefits)

A double-sided axe is used for cutting, slicing, and cracking a variety of materials such as wood, timber, and lumber. A double-sided axe is a more modern addition to the classic axe family. However, the double-headed axe is thought to have been utilized as weaponry equipment in ancient battles.

Now, the most prominent question that arises here is what is a double-sided axe called and what is the purpose of utilizing one. Well, if you are in quest of such queries, then be patient as we will explore every aspect of the subject in depth!

What is the Name of a Two-Sided Axe?

As per Plutarch, a double-headed axe is known as Labrys. In Ancient Greek, the word’s plural is Labrys. Typically, one end of a labrys axe maintains the sharpness for cutting and slashing, while another is blander and much rounder for splitting. 

Double-sided axes, nevertheless, can be sharpened on both ends, making them perfect for cutting as well as slicing anything in a precise and faster way. Choose the option that best suits your requirements. 

Points of Utilizing a Two-Sided Axe

As previously stated, cutting, slashing, as well as splitting are the three basic functions of double-sided axes. Although double-sided axes are most commonly used for woodworking, they can also be used for other tasks. The following are a few examples of dual-sided axes in use. 

• Pruning shrubs and tiny plants
• Small-scale game processing
• Chopping down little trees
• Separating bits of firewood
• Woods, logs, as well as branches, are chopped up into little pieces
• For simpler chores like sharpening sticks

When it comes to finding an amazing axe, a double-bit splitting axe is better than a single-sided one! Ornate dual axes are also offered, which are meant to be eye-catching pieces of interior decoration. 

Types of Double-Sided Axe

There are a few different types of double-sided axes that are used for certain tasks. Axes exist in a wide range of sizes and shapes, and here are a few of the more unique ones. 

• Forest Axe: Forestry axe is specifically intended to cut wood pulp all across the grains. This heavily loaded axe is designed for felling trees as well as certain other large-scale woodworking operations.

• Felling Axe: A felling axe is made to slice through wood fibres perpendicularly. The felling axe is primarily used for cutting and slashing operations because of its flared head and narrow, pointed tip.

• Pickaxe: A pickaxe is a huge tool that consists of a bent, pointed chunk of metal along with a wooden handle attached to the centre and is commonly used to break apart stones or the soil.

• Splitting Maul: A splitting maul is a tool that is typically utilized to split timber along with its grain. On one end, it resembles a sledgehammer, while on another end, it resembles an axe. It is not similar to a felling axe, and it is not designed to do much cutting or slicing.

• Hand Axe: One of the weapons that influenced the Northern European societies was indeed the hand axe. Simple wood-related tasks, including falling small trees, chopping firewood, or hewing the timbers, are all possible with this tool.

• Miners Axe: The miner axe evolved from the axes utilized among the Central European miners. The miner axe developed into a symbol of status and a representation of the mining profession throughout time. They are made for mining in tight quarters, which include copper or ore.

It is a good idea to do some study on each sort of axe before buying one to ensure sure it will work for your job. If you’re mostly cutting firewood, a hand axe would be suitable. A splitting maul may also easily handle the task. 

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Double-Sided Axes

Do consider the advantages and disadvantages of using a double-sided axe when deciding which one is best for your job. In a nutshell, this is what we will look at! 

The pros are:

• A double-sided axe can readily rotate through chopping, slicing, and cracking duties, which represents its usefulness as well as benefit.
• A double-sided axe can last roughly twice as long as a standard axe, demonstrating its durability and effectiveness. 

Here are the cons:

• Due to the sharpness on both sides of a double-sided axe, it is more dangerous than an axe with only one sharp edge.
• A double-sided axe is heavier than a regular axe because they have two ends. They become clumsier and more tedious to use as an outcome of this.

The Best Way to Sharpen a Double-Sided Axe

It will be simpler, quicker, and more enjoyable to complete your work with a sharper axe. A File or a Whetstone, commonly known as a Sharpening Stone, can be used to sharpen your axe. Don’t forget to try sharpening your axe using a Power Tool or a Dremel Tool. 

You can also use a Belt Sander to sharpen your axe, or you can include an Angle Grinder. Is there a better way? It’s entirely up to you. However, the right approach to sharpening your axe is by hand, with simple equipment like a file or just simply using a sharpening stone. 

While you’re thinking about sharpening your axe, there are a few options to consider. We recommend reading a well-informed and well-reasoned article to learn more about it. 

FAQ

Wrapping Up!

Well, now you know what is a double-sided axe called. It’s Labrys, a word for the symmetric dual axe that originated in Crete, Greece. It first appeared in its current context in the mid-1800s, and it has continued in use ever since, appearing in a variety of activities.

Choosing one over a single-bit axe will not be a bad option, and we assure you that you will not be disappointed.

Learn more:

• 8 Best American-Made Axes In 2022 (Top Picks & Reviews)
• 6 Best Oil For Axe Head And Handle In 2022
• What Is A Bearded Axe [History, Design & Advantages]
• How To Date A Craftsman Axe [2 Essential Steps]