I'm in the market for a handy Viking style bearded axe. I'm torn between the Nordland by A&A and the Hanwei bearded axe. The Hanwei appears to be a bit larger and heavier (and more attractive IMO), while the Nordland is a bit cheaper and appears to be smaller and handier, as well as looking more solidly built. So I'm torn between the beefier more weapon oriented Hanwei, or the compact more utilitarian Nordland. Either one will probably be serving the same purpose as a camp axe and possible costume piece. Does anyone have one (or both) of these peices and can give me some insight? Thanks.

-JM

I have owned both, and still own the Nordland. It does not have a hardened edge (although I believe A&A can make one for a higher cost). As far as aesthetics go, that is up to you, but the Hanwei ones suffer from having shrinking shafts, and will come loose without much effort. If you want one for any type of contact, I would be wary of the Hanwei lineup.

I have the Nordland bearded axe and a Hanwei broad axe. I can confirm that the Hanwei broad axe has an issue with loose handles, both for myself and for a friend who also has one. And it is rather heavy, not easy to one-hand. Haven't touched the Hanwei bearded yet myself, but I like the Nordland, it seems to be a very "handy" axe. My one complaint with the Nordland is that they evidently stained the wood AFTER they mounted the axe head, you can see where the stain ends.

Marc Blaydoe

Mike - Out of the two, which would you say had the better head in terms of quality and function? I'm more concerned about the head as hafts can easily be replaced.

I'd go with the nordland axe imho.
I bought on here at the shakopee ren fest a yewar or two back and I use it for everything out doors. While its not hardened it does keep a edge fairly good. It chops real nice and feels good while using it to do chores.
Probably the best weapon/tool I own besides my Ontario machete.
Just my two cents