About Double Bit Axe vs. Single, Only some tools can compete with an axe in woodworking. Generally, an axe offers a great utility you won’t get in other tools.
You’ll usually get people using a double-bit or single-bit axe. Surprisingly, few understand the differences between these two.
Additionally, it’s difficult to determine which axe can perform a specific task better.
To put the debate of double-bit axe vs. single-bit axe to rest, we have prepared this article for you. Keep reading.
Single Bit Axe
In simple terms, a single-bit axe is an axe with a single-edged blade. Therefore, you can only chop your wood using a single blade side. Generally, this type of axe is not used for heavy cutting. We recommend it for splitting and felling wood.
A single-bit axe weighs about 3 to 5 lb and has a height of about 3 to 36 inches. Surprisingly, this axe is mainly used by non-professional lumberjacks because it is easy to use.
Moreover, the axe is safe to use, and the chances of getting injuries during use are rare.
(A single-blade axe)
Double-Bit Axe
A double-bit axe is an axe with two blade edges instead of one. Therefore, this axe provides more utility than a single-bit one since you can employ the two edges for different purposes. People use one edge to make precise cuts and the other to split wood.
Generally, a double-bit axe’s head is designed with steel, while the shaft consists of wood. Surprisingly, you can get some modern designs entirely made of steel.
(A double-blade axe)
Double-Bit Axe Uses
Any axe, whether double or single bit serves three important purposes:
- Splitting
- Chopping
- Cutting
All the above three purposes apply to woodworking tasks. However, a double-bit axe can serve other functions, including:
- Processing small game
- Chopping branches, logs, and trees
- Cutting small branches
- Felling small trees
- Splitting firewood
- Cutting back small foliage and bushes
（Double-Bit Axe）
What To Avoid Doing with Double-Bit Axes
Although you can use your double bi axe for many functions, it won’t serve you well for all purposes. Practically, a hatchet will serve you better than a double-bit axe, especially if you need a smaller tool.
Generally, hatchets are smaller in length and size, thus perfect for splitting firewood, chopping branches, felling saplings, and cutting bushes.
A double-bit axe isn’t perfect for recreational purposes like axe throwing. In such cases, we recommend a tomahawk.
Surprisingly, the tomahawk functions well, even in close combat or self-defense. Since they’re lightweight, you’ll feel like they were an extension of your arm.
Furthermore, we recommend a hatchet or carpenter’s axe for fine woodworking instead of a double-bit axe. A carpenter’s axe is lightweight and smaller for such functions.
Finally, a double-bit axe won’t serve you well for hunting and roofing purposes.
(A double-bit axe for throwing)
Double Bit Ax vs. Single: Benefits
What are the benefits of using a double-bit or single-bit axe? Well, check them out below:
Single-Bit Ax Benefits
First, a single-bit axe is designed with a one-sided blade that allows you to make precise cuts through your wood.
Additionally, since the axe has one cutting side, you won’t chop off your arm or limb while cutting. Furthermore, single-bit axes are durable and sharper, thus making splitting work easier. If you’re a traditional lumberjack, count on a single-bit ax.
(A man splitting wood)
Double-Bit Ax Benefits
Thanks to having double sides, you’ll find double-bit axes more complex. Generally, you can use a double-bit axe for chopping, splitting, and cutting wood.
One advantage of this axe is that you can cut with both sides, thus cutting small branches quickly. You can swing your double-bit axe on both sides and make effective cuts.
Additionally, a double-bit axe will serve you well when sharpening wood sticks.
Differentiating Between A Double and Single Bit Ax
Check out the below examples to better understand the differences between a double-bit and single-bit axe:
Felling Axe
Let’s consider a felling axe which is designed for felling trees. A felling axe is a single-bit axe with one blade edge on the metal. You cut this axe perpendicular to the wood fibers to use it effectively.
Consequently, you’ll get an elongated and clean cut.
You’ll also find the felling axe edges thin and razor sharp. Surprisingly, you might find it difficult to cut a tree without the sharp edges of a felling axe.
(A ax in stump)
Cruiser Axe
Also, we have a cruiser axe which is a double-bit axe. You’ll find this double-bit axe to be smaller and lightweight. Surprisingly, it weighs about 2 to 4 pounds. For this reason, many people prefer using them rather than single-bit axes.
Generally, you can use a cruiser axe to cut through bushes and tough foliage without struggle. And since it has two cutting edges, you can swing them both ways and still make cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are double-bit axes perfect for bushcraft?
Yes! You can comfortably employ a double-bit ax for bushcraft. Specifically, we recommend using Cruiser axes for this purpose.
Surprisingly, these axes have two edges and are lightweight to enable you to make cuts without problems. For effective cuts, ensure you keep the ax sharp.
Are pickaxes double-bit axes?
Absolutely! A pickax is a double-bit ax. Generally, you can use it for landscaping. We guarantee you that this ax will help you crash rocks in minutes.
（A double-sided axe placed on the ground）
Conclusion
Whether an experienced or upcoming lumberjack, finding a good ax will play a critical role in your woodwork. Therefore, you need to select a reliable ax that fits your purpose.
If your activity requires a single-edged blade, count on a single-bit axe. However, for double-edged blade tasks, we recommend a double-bit axe. The best option would be a cruiser axe.