Classic Tasmania Competition Axe

Helko Werk: Crafting Premium Handmade Axes Since 1844

Helko Werk, an esteemed brand recognized as a producer of premium, world-class handmade axes, has been one of the oldest axe manufacturers still operating in Europe. The story of this renowned company began in the village of Cronenberg, Germany, now part of the city of Wuppertal, where August Helsper founded the August Helsper Werkzeugfabrik (the Helsper Tool Factory) in 1844 and commenced the production of axes for the region.

Over the years, the Helsper Tool Factory expanded its export of axes beyond the borders of Europe, and by the 1930s, it was regularly shipping its products to countries in Africa, Asia, and South America. It was also around this time that the Helsper family formed a partnership with the Kotthaus family, setting the stage for exponential growth and giving the company its current name: Helko (an amalgam of Helsper and Kotthaus).

Helko Werk's product lines are a true testament to their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The Classic line combines versatility, performance, and aesthetics to create a premium range of pristine working axes, while the Traditional line is a collection of hand-forged German heritage axes, handcrafted by Helko's Master Smiths.

The Vario 2000, a Helko Werk patented design, features a German-engineered fastening system that introduces incredible versatility and efficiency, with all components being fully interchangeable and inter-compatible.

Helko Werk's Frontier Collection, proudly handmade in the USA, offers a selection of top-quality outdoor and travel gear for the discerning outdoorsman. Additionally, the company's Leather Shop features an assortment of sheaths, axe collars, and other leather goods, all crafted in the USA from full-grain, vegetable-tanned cowhide leather.

The Tasmania Competition Axe, a modern rendition of vintage Tasmanian pattern racing axes, is an affordable yet dependable option for both racing experts and novices. Featuring a hand-forged, C50 high-carbon steel head with a 53-56 HRC (Rockwell Hardness) rating, and a sustainably sourced Grade A American hickory handle, this axe is built to withstand the demands of timber sporting.

Accompanying each Helko Werk axe is a vegetable-tanned, premium leather sheath to protect the blade and a 1 oz bottle of Axe Guard protective oil, manufactured in the USA, to maintain the steel and prevent rust.

Helko Werk's commitment to quality and craftsmanship extends beyond their products. Their manufacturing process involves individual hand-forging using a drop hammer on open dies, a technique that requires exceptional skill and experience from their Master Smiths. The perfect balance between superior edge-holding ability, ease of sharpening, and resistance to chipping is the result of their cumulative expertise in tempering the steel.

With a focus on environmental sustainability and socially responsible practices, Helko Werk proudly sources its hickory handles from sustainably managed forests, ensuring the longevity of this essential resource.

Whether you're a seasoned timber sports enthusiast or a discerning outdoor enthusiast, Helko Werk's premium handmade axes and accessories are the epitome of quality, performance, and enduring craftsmanship.

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