Nauticalia

The best, but most difficult and expensive way to finish an axe head is through multiple hammer blows, hugely increasing the density and durability of the steel compared to more modern production methods.

Swedish company Hults Bruk have been doing it this way since 1697, and their experience shows in this superbly-crafted mini trekking axe: small enough to pack in a rucksack, but a serious and useful tool nonetheless.

It is fitted to an oiled hickory heartwood handle, and protected in a leather sheath.

10” long.