Husqvarna 27 in Universal Axe

Among Husqvarna axes, the 27 in universal axe is the all-rounder: long enough for real swings, light enough to carry all day. It handles limbing, driving wedges and splitting kindling on the job site.

Where a universal axe fits

A universal axe sits between a small hatchet and a splitting maul. On a tree job it knocks small limbs off a log, drives felling wedges with the poll and splits a round when the saw is not the right tool. At home it handles firewood and camp chores.

For heavy splitting, a dedicated splitting axe or maul does the job with less effort. For carrying on a belt all day, a smaller hatchet is lighter. If you only want one axe on the truck, a 27 in universal is a sensible choice.

A universal axe is also handy around the chipper. It trims off crotches and forks that will not feed, and it can split a wide piece of trunk wood that is too big to go through the throat.

Care and safe use

Keep the edge sharp with a file or stone. A dull axe glances off wood, which is when injuries happen. Check that the head is tight on the handle before every use, and retire the handle if it cracks. Keep the edge cover on when it is not in use.

Clear your swing path, keep bystanders well back and stand so a missed swing goes into the ground, not your leg. Wear eye protection and sturdy boots.

Oil a wooden handle with boiled linseed oil once or twice a season to keep it from drying out and cracking.