CASE KNIVES
High quality, extremely collectible handmade knives since the 1800s.
SHOP CASE KNIVESThe Council Tool 36" Dayton Axe with a 3.5 lb head is a full-sized felling axe built for serious work in the field, forest, or on the job site. Crafted for power and precision, it’s a tool that blends traditional American craftsmanship with modern engineering. Whether you're dropping trees, splitting rounds, or handling tough clearing tasks, this axe is designed to deliver relentless performance under hard use.
At the core is the 3.5 lb Dayton pattern single-bit axe head, forged from high-quality tool steel. The Dayton pattern, named for its origins in the Dayton, Ohio area, is prized for its broad cutting edge and square poll—ideal for a range of chopping and splitting tasks. The edge is hand-sharpened and tapered, offering a clean bite and smooth release. With a cutting edge of approximately 4.75 inches, the axe delivers solid chopping power and a strong follow-through on every swing.
To protect against wear and the elements, the axe head is coated in red enamel with a clear lacquer finish on the cutting edge to deter rust. The heat treatment is tuned for real-world performance—the edge is hardened to a Rockwell hardness of Rc 48-55 at about 1.25 inches back from the edge, giving excellent edge retention without becoming brittle. The poll and eye walls remain in their forged state, keeping the structure tough and resilient where it matters most.
The 36-inch handle is made from premium American hickory, chosen for its strength, shock resistance, and durability. It's kiln-dried to below 10% moisture content, minimizing shrinkage and helping the head stay firmly seated through all weather conditions. The eye section is precision tapered to form a mechanical bond during assembly. The axe head is hydraulically seated onto the handle and secured with a serrated aluminum wedge. This wedge design increases bite and creates a lasting fit that won’t loosen over time. Unlike wooden wedges, aluminum won’t swell or shrink with humidity.
This is a professional-grade axe, made in the USA and built to exceed ANSI standards. It's a dependable tool for loggers, landowners, and anyone who works where power and control matter. Order it today from SMKW!