The Hoffman saddle axe is versatile, unique, and compact. This axe is based off of the old American saddle cruiser, which was used to cruise through the forest quickly. The heads are hand forged from a single 2.25 pound block of 4140 chromium molybdenum alloy steel, and heat treated to strict specifications. The finish is left "as forged". The 2.25 pound axe head is hung on a straight grained ash handle. The weight and length of the handle make this axe ideal to store in a pack, tote, or saddle bag. One edge is forged thinner than the other, giving the axe multiple uses. Each edge can be dedicated to a variety of tasks. For example, the thin edge can be used for fine cutting, felling, cooking, shaving, and wood carving. The thicker edge can be used to split firewood, limb trees, and dig holes or cut roots. A hand made sheath comes with every saddle axe, held together by glue and brass rivets and snaps.