Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Pack Axe - Compact Lightweight Axe for Backpacking and Camping

Helko Werk: Handcrafting Premium Axes since 1844

Helko Werk is widely recognized as a producer of world-class handmade axes and is one of the oldest axe manufacturers still operating in Europe. The brand's story began in 1844 in the village of Cronenberg, Germany, now part of Wuppertal, where August Helsper founded the August Helsper Werkzeugfabrik (the Helsper Tool Factory) and began producing axes for the region.

Over the following decades, the Helsper Tool Factory expanded its export of axes beyond Europe, shipping them to countries in Africa, Asia, and South America by the 1930s. It was around this time that the Helsper family formed a partnership with the Kotthaus family, leading to the company's current name: Helko (an amalgamation of Helsper and Kotthaus).

Helko Werk's Classic Line combines versatility, performance, and aesthetics to create a premium range of pristine working axes. The Traditional Line, on the other hand, is a premium collection of hand-forged German heritage axes, handcrafted by Helko's Master Smiths. The Vario 2000 is a patented design featuring a German-engineered fastening system that introduces incredible versatility and efficiency.

In addition to their renowned axe lines, Helko Werk offers a Frontier Collection of top-quality outdoor and travel gear, proudly handmade in the USA. They also carry a selection of premium sharpening, maintenance, and leather products to help keep your axes and gear in top condition.

Each Helko Werk axe is individually forged by hand using a drop hammer on open dies. This process requires a highly skilled and experienced blacksmith, as every split-second decision affects the shape and integrity of the final product. The steel is carefully tempered to create an ideal balance between superior edge-holding ability, ease of sharpening, and resistance to chipping.

Helko handles are crafted from sustainably sourced Grade A American hickory, selected for their grain orientation and density. The handles are finished with a boiled linseed oil and sanded to 150 grit for a comfortable and smooth feel.

Additionally, every Helko Werk axe comes with a vegetable-tanned, premium leather sheath handmade in the USA, as well as a 1 oz bottle of Axe Guard protective oil to help maintain the steel and prevent rust.

Helko Werk is committed to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and economic prosperity in the management of the world's forests. With a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and innovation, Helko Werk continues to uphold its legacy as a producer of premium, handmade axes that are built to last.

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