German Rhine Axe, 2.75 Lb. 27.5" Handle

The German Rhine Axe is a sturdy and heavyweight axe with a 2.75 lb head and 27.5" handle. While it is not hand-forged, it is still a decent axe. The steel and handle material seem to be of good quality, and the stable steel sleeve around the upper handle area protects it from damage. The axe is sharp and can be used to remove roots from the garden and to split hardwood. However, there have been several negative reviews about the quality of this axe. One reviewer complained that one side of the axe head was rough, the backend was not ground symmetrically, and there was a knot in the center of the handle. Another reviewer received two replacement axes but had to give up after the second one had a bowed handle. Additionally, one reviewer claimed that the blade slipped from the handle after a few hits, rendering it unusable. Another reviewer was disappointed with the axe's blunt edge, stating that it was not possible to cut even softwood without leaving a mark. Finally, a reviewer who had been using the axe for a year said that it broke while working on hard oakwood. According to a friend who is a mechanical engineer, there was a material defect since rusty inclusions could be seen at the breaking point.