DIY Frequently Asked Questions / Single-Bit Axe')">
Most popular style of axe, the single-bit axe is used to fell, trim or prune trees, to split or cut wood.
The easiest and safest axe for inexperienced woodcutters to use because it only has one cutting edge.
The other end of the head, the poll, forms a hammer for driving wooden or plastic stakes. It should never be used to strike splitting wedges, steel posts, stone or any hard object.
Handles for single-bit axes are curved to help increase leverage. Axe handles are made of hickory and range from 20″ to 36″ long. The most common is 36″.
Common head patterns include Michigan, Dayton, Kentucky, Connecticut and New Jersey.