Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800 Review

When it comes to splitting large logs, the Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800 stands out as a tool designed with power and efficiency at its core. After spending nearly a year with this axe, and fielding numerous questions about its performance, it’s time to delve into what makes the S2800 a cut above the rest, especially when compared head-to-head with competitors like the Fiskars X25.

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Specifications of Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800

• Length: 27.6 inches
• Width: 8.9 inches
• Weight: 6.17 pounds
• Material: Fiber-reinforced PA shaft, stainless steel protection, special coated head for less friction.

Design and Ergonomics

At first glance, the Husqvarna S2800 may seem like any other axe, but its design and functionality set it apart. The axe head, weighing in at 2300 grams, is coated with a non-stick, anti-corrosive layer that not only reduces friction for easier entry into the wood but also protects against wear and tear. This special coating, combined with the axe head’s geometry, is optimized for splitting large logs, making each swing efficient and effective.

The balance point of the S2800 is meticulously designed to be close to the axe head, providing perfect balance and weight distribution. This, along with the lightweight, fiber-reinforced PA shaft, concentrates power into each cut, making log splitting less of a chore and more of a pleasure. The handle, protected by stainless steel shaft protection, ensures durability and a long lifespan for the axe.

Unique Features

• Soft Grip: One of the most user-friendly features of the S2800 is its soft grip handle. This design element not only provides comfort during use but also significantly reduces the risk of the axe slipping out of hand. It ensures that users can maintain a firm and comfortable grip, even during extended periods of use or in wet conditions, enhancing both safety and efficiency.
• Hammer Function: The axe head’s design incorporates an extra wide and durable milled backside, which doubles as a hammer for splitting wedges. This dual-purpose feature adds versatility to the tool, allowing users to split wood more effectively by driving wedges without needing to switch tools. It’s important to note, however, that this function is designed for use with plastic wedges to prevent damage to the axe head, showcasing Husqvarna’s commitment to preserving the tool’s integrity and longevity.
• Shaft Protection: Recognizing the common issue of overstrikes, Husqvarna has equipped the S2800 with stainless steel impact protection. This feature protects the most vulnerable part of the handle, directly below the axe head, from damage caused by missed swings. By enhancing the tool’s durability in this way, Husqvarna ensures that the axe can withstand the rigors of heavy use without compromising its structural integrity.
• Hooked End: The handle’s hooked end is a thoughtful addition aimed at maximizing user safety. This design prevents the user’s hand from sliding off the handle during a swing, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. It ensures a secure grip, allowing for more controlled and powerful swings with each chop.

Performance and Use

In a direct comparison with the Fiskars X25, the Husqvarna S2800 shines, particularly due to its superior weight and balance.

Despite its 70-centimeter handle which initially seemed short, the axe provides an exceptional splitting experience. Its swingability and the ease with which it bites deep into wood without getting stuck are remarkable. Whether splitting sycamore or tackling more challenging logs, the S2800 demonstrates consistent performance.

However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The edge of the axe can chip, especially when it encounters hard obstacles like metal. This happened early in its use, yet the axe still maintains a sharp edge and performs well even after such incidents. It’s a testament to the quality of the material and the design that even with minor chipping, the axe continues to be a reliable tool for both splitting wood and even felling trees.

Comparative Analysis: Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800 vs. Fiskars X25 Splitting Axe

Design	Non-stick coated head, optimized balance	FiberComp handle, balanced weight
Ergonomics	Soft grip, hooked end for secure handling	Lightweight, non-slip grip
Performance	Efficient splitting with minimal effort	Sharp edge with low-friction for easy cuts
Durability	Stainless steel protection, anti-corrosive coating	Durable FiberComp handle, rust-resistant blade
Safety	Secure grip, balanced for safety	Safe, non-slip handling
Maintenance	Easy to clean, special coating helps reduce wear	Low maintenance, rust-resistant
Weight Distribution	Perfect balance near the axe head	Perfected balance for efficient power transfer
Handle Material	Fibre-reinforced PA shaft	Virtually unbreakable FiberComp
Head Geometry	Adapted for splitting large logs	Advanced bevel convex geometry
Price	$149.00	$47.99

When comparing the Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800 to the Fiskars X25 Splitting Axe, both tools stand out for their innovative designs and high performance in log splitting tasks. The Husqvarna S2800 impresses with its non-stick coated head and optimized balance, making it particularly suited for splitting larger logs with minimal effort. Its design focuses on ergonomics and safety, featuring a soft grip and a hooked end to prevent slipping.

On the other hand, the Fiskars X25 is renowned for its lightweight, durable FiberComp handle and sharp, low-friction edge, which allows for easy cuts and efficient splitting. The X25’s design aims at reducing user fatigue and ensuring safety through its balanced weight distribution and non-slip grip.

Both axes are competitively priced, offering good value based on their durability, design, and performance features. The choice between them may come down to specific preferences such as the feel of the handle, weight distribution, and the type of logs being split. Regardless of your choice, both the Husqvarna S2800 and the Fiskars X25 are reliable tools that will make the challenging task of wood splitting much more manageable.

Final Thoughts

Priced at around 64 pounds sterling, the Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800 offers great value for those in need of a reliable, durable, and efficient tool for splitting larger logs. Its design, from the non-stick coating on the axe head to the ergonomic handle with soft grip and safety features, showcases Husqvarna’s commitment to quality and user satisfaction.

For anyone on the fence about choosing between the Husqvarna S2800 and other models like the Fiskars X25, the S2800 is highly recommended for its superior balance, ergonomic design, and overall performance. It’s a tool that not only meets the demands of splitting large logs but does so with an efficiency and ease that make it a standout choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

FAQs

1. Can the Husqvarna S2800 Splitting Axe handle different types of wood, including hardwoods and knotty logs?
   Absolutely! The S2800 is designed with a powerful head geometry and a non-stick coating, making it highly effective at splitting a wide variety of wood types. From softer woods like pine to harder, knotty varieties such as oak and sycamore, the axe delivers exceptional performance, making it versatile for all your wood splitting needs.
2. How does the hammer function of the S2800 work, and what types of wedges are safe to use with it?
   The S2800 features an extra wide and durable milled backside of the axe head, designed for hammering splitting wedges. It’s important to note that this function is intended for use with plastic wedges, not steel wedges, to avoid damaging the axe. This dual-purpose design adds versatility, allowing you to split logs more effectively.
3. Is the special coating on the axe head durable, and does it require any special maintenance to keep its non-stick properties?
   The special coating on the S2800 axe head is highly durable and designed to reduce friction and provide anti-corrosive protection. To maintain its non-stick properties, it’s recommended to clean the axe after use and store it in a dry place. Avoid using abrasive materials to clean the coated surface, as this might wear it down over time.
4. Given its unique design, how does the balance of the S2800 compare to traditional splitting axes?
   The S2800 is engineered with its balance point close to the axe head, providing perfect balance and weight distribution. This design enhances the user’s swing power and accuracy compared to traditional axes, where balance may not be as finely tuned. Users often report that the S2800 feels more natural and easier to swing, making the splitting process more efficient.
5. How does the fiber-reinforced PA shaft contribute to the axe’s durability and performance?
   The fiber-reinforced PA (polyamide) shaft offers superior strength and durability, making the S2800 robust enough to withstand the rigors of heavy splitting tasks. This material also contributes to the axe’s lightweight design, ensuring that the tool remains manageable and reduces user fatigue during extended use.
6. What should I do if the edge of my S2800 starts to show signs of chipping?
   While the S2800 is designed for durability, chipping can occur if the axe strikes a hard object. If you notice minor chipping, you can use a file or whetstone to smooth out the edge. For more significant damage, or if you’re unsure how to properly sharpen the axe, consider seeking professional sharpening services to restore its edge without compromising the blade’s integrity.
7. Can the Husqvarna S2800 be used for tasks other than splitting, such as chopping or felling trees?
   While the S2800 is optimized for splitting large logs, its robust design and sharp edge also make it capable of performing other tasks like chopping and felling small to medium trees. However, for specialized tasks, it’s always best to use tools designed specifically for those purposes to ensure efficiency and safety.
8. Does the lifetime guarantee cover all parts of the axe, including the handle and axe head?
   The lifetime guarantee primarily covers manufacturing defects and material flaws in the axe. It’s important to refer to Husqvarna’s warranty terms for specific details, as normal wear and tear or damage from misuse may not be covered. The guarantee underscores Husqvarna’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

There you have it, folks – the ins and outs of the Husqvarna Splitting Axe S2800, a tool that combines strength, efficiency, and innovation to transform the way we approach log splitting. But now, we’re eager to hear from you! Have you had a chance to swing the S2800 yourself, or do you have any burning questions we haven’t covered? Drop your thoughts, experiences, and inquiries in the comments below. Your feedback not only enlightens fellow readers but helps us all grow as a community of outdoor and woodworking enthusiasts. Don’t forget to share this review with friends who might be on the lookout for their next great tool. Happy splitting!

David Murray

Forestry Author

I'm David Murry, a forestry equipment specialist with a focus on chainsaw operation. With over 13 years of experience, I've honed my skills in operating and maintaining a wide range of machinery, from chainsaws to log splitters. My passion for the outdoors and commitment to sustainable forestry drive my work, which emphasizes safety, efficiency, and staying updated with industry advancements. Additionally, I'm dedicated to sharing my expertise and promoting environmental awareness within the forestry community.