Helko Werk Germany Vario 2000 Heavy Log Splitter - 6.5 Pound 36 Inch Splitting Axe

Helko Werk is widely recognized as a premium producer of world-class, handmade axes. Founded in 1844 in Cronenberg, Germany (now part of Wuppertal), it is one of the oldest axe manufacturers still operating in Europe. The company's story began when August Helsper established the August Helsper Werkzeugfabrik (Helsper Tool Factory) and began producing axes for the region. Over the early 20th century, the factory increased its export of axes beyond Europe, regularly shipping them to countries in Africa, Asia, and South America. In the 1930s, the Helsper family formed a partnership with the Kotthaus family, setting the stage for the company's exponential growth and its current name: Helko (a combination of Helsper and Kotthaus).

Helko Werk's product lines include the Classic, Traditional, and Vario 2000 ranges. The Classic line combines versatility, performance, and aesthetics to create a premium collection of pristine working axes. The Traditional line features a premium selection of hand-forged German heritage axes, handcrafted by Helko's Master Smiths. The Vario 2000 is a patented design using a German-engineered bolt-on fastening system that introduces incredible versatility and efficiency, with all heads, handles, and components fully interchangeable.

The company's Frontier Collection offers top-quality outdoor and travel gear, proudly handmade in the USA and built to last a lifetime. Helko also carries an assortment of premium leather sheaths, axe collars, and other accessories, all handmade in the USA from full-grain, vegetable-tanned cowhide leather.

Helko Werk's manufacturing process is a true testament to the brand's commitment to quality. Each axe is individually forged by hand using a drop hammer on open dies. This requires a highly skilled and experienced blacksmith, as every split-second decision affects the shape and integrity of the final product. The steel is tempered to an ideal Rockwell hardness, striking a perfect balance between superior edge-holding ability, ease of sharpening, and resistance to chipping.

The handles are crafted from sustainably sourced Grade A American hickory, carefully selected for grain orientation and density. They are lightly lacquered with a matte finish and sanded to a smooth 150-grit texture.

Each Helko Werk axe purchase includes a premium, vegetable-tanned leather sheath and a bottle of Axe Guard protective oil, manufactured in the USA. Proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping your axes in top condition. Helko recommends using a flat file and sharpening stone to maintain the original bevel and keep the edge sharp. Grinders and sanders should be used with caution to avoid overheating and altering the steel temper.

In summary, Helko Werk is a brand that has been producing premium, handmade axes since 1844. With their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and sustainability, they continue to be one of the oldest and most respected axe manufacturers in Europe. Whether you're in the market for a classic working axe, a heavy-duty log splitter, or premium outdoor gear, Helko Werk has a product to meet your needs.

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