Jarl axe

Hand-forged axe from U8 and HWG carbon steel (according to Russian nomenclature) on an inlaid black hornbeam shaft. Combining two steel grades in axes is a method often used by Russian blacksmiths, allowing them to give the products better utilitarian properties on the one hand, and originality on the other. This technology requires great blacksmithing skill and is used in combination with zone hardening. Jarl is made in the style of Scandinavian axes that are more weapons than tools, as evidenced by the carving on the poll. The cutting edge of the axe is made of U8 steel hardened in the range of 58-60 HRC, which is very high even for a knife, let alone an axe. The poll made of HWG steel (Rus.ХВГ) is completely soft ("raw" as Russians like to say) – about 30 HRC. Of course, the axe is hand-forged (HWG welds poorly). The haft is made of black hornbeam with beautiful inlay. There is a certain anecdote associated with this handle. Zbanow himself told me that at one exhibition, Steven Seagal approached his stand (this is certainly true, I saw their joint photo) and bought Jarl, explaining that he would use it as a throwing axe. To Zbanow's timid suggestions that the haft is too long and that he could make him a shorter one, more suitable for throwing, the star replied that he can throw anything, and he really likes this handle.

Haft length: 445 mm

Blade length: 94 mm

Size from poll to blade:160 mm

Steel (according to Russian marking): 9ХС+ХВГ

Leather axe head cover with snap buttons

Manufacturer: Zhbanov forge, Russian Federation