For those of you interested in an axe and/or a couple exhibitions of wood art in Philly, read on.
First, a few months ago, Robin Wood sent an axe to me to try out and provide him with some feedback. I’ve known Robin and his daughter, JoJo, now for several years. They’re friends of mine and I admire them as craftspersons and persons. This new axe of theirs, the Wood Tools Sheffield Axe, is forged in the historic steel city of Sheffield, England. It’s the one I’m using in the photo above. You can read more about it here.
Robin didn’t ask or expect me to post any review or recommendation, but I recorded my observations in my notebook so I’ll share those pages below. Beats typing at a computer.
Two Mark Sfirri Exhibitions:
Last year I had some work included in an exhibition curated by Mark Sfirri, a highly-skilled and imaginative wood turner and carver, known especially for his multi-axis turning techniques. Mark has been making beautiful things from wood for over 50 years and he has two solo exhibitions coming up. One actually opened last night and the other opens December 14. If you can make it in person, there will be a lot to be inspired by and to learn from. Here are some links:
La Famiglia exhibition, Museum for Art in Wood, Philadelphia, PA. (If you can’t make it in person, here’s a link to a broadcast about it.)
The Flower Show exhibition. The James A. Michener Art Museum. Doylestown, PA.
David Fisher, Carving Explorations 
I’m glad to see your review of the new axe. I bought one of Robin’s older design axes many years ago and it just never felt right in my hand even though I liked the texturing of the handle. I don’t know if it was the balance or the weight, but I later got a Kalthoff that I love. Sounds like Robin has sorted out the issues and produced a superb product.
Any idea if he’s planning to make other tools?
Kalia
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Hi Kalia. The Kalthoff axe is a great tool. I’m glad you’ve got one. It’s been a few years since I tried it out as Taljfest, but it is very well designed and made. Julia did/does a fantastic job.
Robin still makes other axes. I like them and they allow those with little money to get a decent axe. The important thing is that you’ve found an axe that works well for you. Of course, just stick with it. No need for any more. I don’t think there’s one axe that’s ideal for everyone. And regardless of what axe one has, the most important thing is to keep it sharpened properly.
I think Robin, JoJo, and Zack are always thinking of tools and potential additions. So, yes, I’ll bet there will be more coming. Check his website. Honestly, I’m usually completely out of the loop when it comes to new tools available out there from all the incredible makers today. I just can’t/don’t keep up with it all and, for the most part, keep on with the tools I’ve had for a long time.
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The timing of your post is perfect Dave. Thank you.
I owned one of Robin Woods carving axes. I purchased it probably 5 years ago. I was learning to carve & I really wanted a good ax, but I really couldn’t afford one. Then I heard about Wood Tools. The ax was so affordable & it fit the bill perfectly. I loved everything about it. Sadly a few weeks ago it came up missing. No clues to where it could’ve gone. So, I need a new one & this confirms my decision, I think my new ax will be this one. I know Wood tools didn’t send the ax to you for promotional purposes, but I’m glad you shared your experience. I put the ax at the top of my Christmas list right where Santa can see it.
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Thanks very much, Sam. Of course, your old axe will probably show up the day after your new one arrives. I had a pocket knife do that once.
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Dave and all his green woodwork friends and readers Gather together and come to Western NC and bring along your chain saws, skid steers and trucks. You could help out a lot of people to clear their land after the storm, You most likely could take home a number of Appalachia’s finest hardwood logs.
Gary
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Thanks for the reminder and invitation, Gary. What people there are still struggling with after such a tragedy is too easily and too often forgotten.
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Thanks for this review, Dave. I have the original Robinwood Axe (love it), and now, I guess I’ll have both. Their craftsmanship and pricing can’t be beat. I think I’ll go with the fire hose sheath since my father was a fireman.
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Hey Chris! Thanks for sharing your experience. Great to hear about the fire hose connection.
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I love the review Dave. I especially enjoyed the fact that it was right out of your sketch book. Beautifully drawn and described, you continue to be an inspiration to us all!
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Thanks Joe. Seeing your sketchbook with all those beautifully rendered chairs spurred me to keep at it.
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