Stihl Felling Axe Criticism Explained (Arborist Insights)

Ever catch the glint of sunlight on a freshly sharpened axe, and feel a primal urge to split some wood? There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a log into manageable pieces, isn’t there? But before you grab your Stihl felling axe and head into the woods, let’s talk about something important: understanding its strengths and weaknesses, and whether it’s truly the right tool for your needs. This article delves into the Stihl felling axe, addressing common criticisms, providing arborist insights, and most importantly, breaking down the costs associated with wood processing so you can make informed decisions.

Stihl Felling Axe: Criticism Explained (Arborist Insights)

The Stihl felling axe is a popular choice among professionals and hobbyists alike. However, like any tool, it’s not without its critics. I’ve spent countless hours in the woods, both personally felling trees for firewood and observing professional arborists at work. My aim here is to provide a balanced perspective, addressing the criticisms head-on while offering insights to help you determine if this axe is the right fit for your wood-processing needs.

Addressing Common Criticisms of the Stihl Felling Axe

Before we dive into cost considerations, let’s tackle the criticisms. The most common complaints I’ve heard and witnessed revolve around:

• Weight and Balance: Some users find the Stihl felling axe to be head-heavy, leading to fatigue during prolonged use.
• Steel Quality: While Stihl is a reputable brand, some argue that the steel used in their axes isn’t as high-quality as that found in some premium Scandinavian axes. This can affect edge retention and sharpening frequency.
• Handle Comfort: The handle, often made of hickory, can sometimes lack the ergonomic shaping found in more expensive axes, leading to discomfort for some users.
• Price Point: The Stihl felling axe sits in a mid-range price category. Some argue that for the price, you can find axes with better steel or more refined designs.

Let’s unpack each of these points.

Weight and Balance: A Matter of Preference and Technique

The “head-heavy” criticism is subjective. What feels heavy to one person might feel perfectly balanced to another. A heavier head can be advantageous for felling larger trees, as it provides more momentum on each swing. However, for smaller trees or splitting tasks, a lighter axe might be preferable.

Arborist Insight: The key is proper technique. Learning to swing the axe using your core and legs, rather than relying solely on your arms, will significantly reduce fatigue, regardless of the axe’s weight.

Steel Quality: Finding the Sweet Spot

The steel used in the Stihl felling axe is generally a good carbon steel, hardened to a reasonable degree. It’s not the absolute best steel available, but it’s a solid compromise between edge retention and ease of sharpening. A harder steel might hold an edge longer, but it will also be more difficult to sharpen in the field.

Arborist Insight: Regular maintenance is crucial. Honing the edge frequently with a sharpening stone will keep the axe performing optimally and minimize the need for more aggressive sharpening. I personally keep a small sharpening puck in my logging pack for quick touch-ups.

Handle Comfort: Customization is Key

The hickory handle on the Stihl felling axe is durable and provides good shock absorption. However, the factory finish can sometimes be a bit rough.

Arborist Insight: A little sandpaper and some linseed oil can work wonders. Sanding the handle smooth and applying a few coats of linseed oil will improve the grip and make it more comfortable to hold, especially during extended use. Some arborists even re-shape the handle entirely for a more custom fit.

Price Point: Value for Money

The Stihl felling axe isn’t the cheapest option on the market, but it’s also not the most expensive. It offers a good balance between quality, durability, and price. While you might find axes with slightly better steel or more refined designs for a similar price, the Stihl name carries weight, and the axe is readily available at most Stihl dealerships.

Arborist Insight: Consider the availability of replacement parts. Stihl’s extensive dealer network makes it easy to find replacement handles and other parts if needed. This can be a significant advantage over lesser-known brands.

The Stihl Felling Axe: Where It Shines

Despite the criticisms, the Stihl felling axe excels in several areas:

• Durability: These axes are built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The head is securely attached to the handle, and the overall construction is robust.
• Versatility: While designed for felling, the Stihl felling axe can also be used for limbing, splitting, and other wood-processing tasks.
• Availability: Stihl dealerships are widespread, making it easy to find and purchase the axe.
• Reputation: Stihl is a well-respected brand known for producing quality tools.

Understanding the Costs of Wood Processing

Now that we’ve addressed the criticisms and highlighted the strengths of the Stihl felling axe, let’s delve into the costs associated with wood processing. This is where things get interesting, because the final cost of your firewood or lumber project can vary wildly depending on numerous factors.

Variable Factors Affecting Wood Processing Costs

Before we break down the individual cost components, it’s crucial to acknowledge the variables that can significantly impact your budget. These include:

• Wood Species: Hardwoods like oak and maple are generally more expensive than softwoods like pine and fir. They also require more effort to process.
• Wood Quality: Rotten or diseased wood is essentially worthless for firewood or lumber. The quality of the wood directly affects its usability and value.
• Location and Accessibility: Harvesting wood in a remote location or on difficult terrain will increase transportation costs and labor time.
• Seasonality: The price of firewood often fluctuates with the seasons, typically peaking in the winter months.
• Labor Costs: Whether you’re hiring a logging crew or relying on your own sweat equity, labor is a significant cost factor.
• Tool Costs: Chainsaws, axes, splitters, and other tools require an initial investment and ongoing maintenance.
• Permits and Regulations: Depending on your location and the scale of your operation, you may need permits to harvest wood.

Breaking Down the Cost Components

Let’s dissect the cost components of wood processing, from acquiring the raw materials to stacking the finished product. I’ll draw on my own experiences and industry data to provide realistic estimates. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and your actual costs may vary.

Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs

This is the first major cost. You have a few options:

• Purchasing Standing Timber: This involves buying the rights to harvest trees on a specific piece of land. Prices vary widely depending on the species, quality, and quantity of timber.
  • Data Point: According to the USDA Forest Service, the average stumpage price (price paid for standing timber) for sawtimber in the Southern United States in 2023 was around \$30 per thousand board feet (MBF) for pine and \$70 per MBF for hardwood. However, prices can range from \$10 per MBF to over \$200 per MBF depending on the species and quality.
• Purchasing Logs: You can buy logs directly from logging companies or sawmills. This is often a more convenient option than purchasing standing timber, but it can also be more expensive.
  • Data Point: The price of logs varies greatly by species and grade. As of late 2023, prices for hardwood sawlogs in the Northeast US ranged from \$200 to \$800 per MBF.
• Harvesting from Your Own Property: If you own land with trees, you can harvest them yourself. While this eliminates the cost of purchasing timber, you’ll still need to factor in the cost of your time, equipment, and any necessary permits.
• Free Wood (Salvage Logging): In some cases, you might be able to obtain wood for free by salvaging fallen trees or clearing land. However, this wood is often of lower quality and may require more effort to process.

My Experience: I once salvaged a large oak tree that had fallen on a neighbor’s property after a storm. While the wood was free, it was a massive undertaking to cut it up, transport it, and split it. In the end, I probably spent more time and effort than if I had simply purchased a cord of firewood.

Tool Costs: Chainsaws, Axes, and Splitters

The tools you need will depend on the scale of your operation and the type of wood you’re processing. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools and their associated costs:

• Chainsaw: A good quality chainsaw is essential for felling trees and bucking logs.
  • Cost: \$300 – \$1,500+ depending on the size, power, and brand. I recommend investing in a reputable brand like Stihl, Husqvarna, or Echo. A mid-range saw in the \$500-\$800 range is often sufficient for most firewood projects.
  • Maintenance: Chainsaws require regular maintenance, including sharpening the chain, cleaning the air filter, and replacing spark plugs. Expect to spend \$50-\$100 per year on chainsaw maintenance.
• Felling Axe: As we’ve discussed, a felling axe is useful for felling smaller trees, limbing, and splitting.
  • Cost: \$50 – \$200+ depending on the brand and quality. The Stihl felling axe typically falls in the \$100-\$150 range.
  • Maintenance: Sharpening the axe regularly is essential. A sharpening stone or file will cost around \$20-\$30.
• Splitting Maul or Axe: A splitting maul or axe is used to split logs into firewood.
  • Cost: \$40 – \$100+ depending on the weight and design.
• Hydraulic Log Splitter: For larger volumes of firewood, a hydraulic log splitter can save a significant amount of time and effort.
  • Cost: \$500 – \$3,000+ depending on the splitting force and features. You can also rent log splitters for around \$50-\$100 per day.
• Safety Gear: Safety gear is essential for protecting yourself from injury.
  • Cost: \$100 – \$300+ including a helmet, ear protection, eye protection, gloves, and chaps.

Cost Comparison Table: Logging Tools

My Experience: I started out splitting firewood with a maul. It was a great workout, but it was also incredibly time-consuming. Eventually, I invested in a hydraulic log splitter, and it has saved me countless hours. The initial investment was significant, but the time savings have been well worth it.

Labor Costs: Logging Crew or Firewood Handlers

If you’re hiring a logging crew or firewood handlers, labor costs will be a significant expense.

• Logging Crew: The cost of hiring a logging crew varies depending on the size of the crew, their experience, and the difficulty of the job.
  • Data Point: According to industry sources, the average hourly rate for a logger in the United States in 2023 was around \$25-\$35 per hour.
• Firewood Handlers: If you’re selling firewood, you’ll need to factor in the cost of labor for cutting, splitting, stacking, and delivering the wood.
  • Data Point: The average hourly rate for manual labor in the United States in 2023 was around \$15-\$25 per hour.

My Experience: I’ve hired firewood handlers in the past to help me with large orders. It’s important to find reliable and hardworking individuals. I’ve found that paying a fair wage and providing a positive work environment helps to attract and retain good workers.

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs can be a significant expense, especially if you’re harvesting wood in a remote location.

• Fuel: The cost of fuel for transporting logs and firewood can add up quickly.
• Trucking: If you’re hiring a trucking company to transport logs, you’ll need to factor in their fees.
  • Data Point: Trucking rates vary depending on the distance and the weight of the load. Expect to pay around \$3-\$5 per mile for hauling logs.
• Equipment Rental: You may need to rent equipment such as a skidder or a loader to move logs.
  • Data Point: Skidder rental rates typically range from \$200-\$400 per day.

My Experience: I use a small utility trailer to haul firewood. It’s not the most efficient method, but it’s affordable and works well for my needs. I’ve learned to pack the trailer carefully to maximize the amount of wood I can haul on each trip.

Permits and Regulations

Depending on your location and the scale of your operation, you may need permits to harvest wood.

• Logging Permits: Many states and counties require logging permits for commercial timber harvesting.
• Firewood Permits: Some areas require permits to sell firewood.
• Environmental Regulations: You may need to comply with environmental regulations related to water quality, soil erosion, and wildlife habitat.

My Experience: I always check with my local authorities to ensure that I’m in compliance with all applicable regulations. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Fines for violating logging or firewood regulations can be substantial.

Drying and Storage Costs

Firewood needs to be properly dried before it can be burned efficiently.

• Drying Time: The drying time for firewood varies depending on the species of wood, the climate, and the size of the pieces. Generally, hardwoods need to dry for at least six months, while softwoods can dry in as little as three months.
  • Formula: Estimated drying time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content (%) – Target Moisture Content (%)) / Drying Rate (% per month). The drying rate depends on the climate and wood species.
• Storage Space: You’ll need a dry, well-ventilated place to store your firewood.
• Tarp or Shed: Covering your firewood with a tarp or storing it in a shed will help to protect it from rain and snow.

My Experience: I stack my firewood in long rows, with plenty of space between the rows for air circulation. I also cover the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from the rain. I’ve found that this method allows the wood to dry quickly and efficiently.

Current Industry Benchmarks and Statistical Data

To give you a better sense of the overall costs, let’s look at some current industry benchmarks and statistical data:

• Average Price per Cord of Firewood: The average price per cord of firewood in the United States in 2023 ranged from \$200 to \$400, depending on the location and the species of wood. In some areas, prices can be even higher.
• Fuelwood Market Rates: Fuelwood market rates fluctuate with the seasons and the demand for firewood. Prices typically peak in the winter months.
• Timber Prices: Timber prices vary depending on the species, quality, and location. You can find current timber prices on the USDA Forest Service website and other industry resources.

Practical Tips for Cost Optimization and Budget Management

Here are some practical tips for optimizing your costs and managing your budget:

• Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple suppliers before purchasing timber or logs.
• Negotiate Prices: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices with suppliers and contractors.
• Salvage Wood: Consider salvaging fallen trees or clearing land to obtain free wood.
• Maintain Your Tools: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your tools and prevent costly repairs.
• Buy in Bulk: Buying firewood or logs in bulk can often save you money.
• Dry Your Own Firewood: Drying your own firewood can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying seasoned firewood.
• Use a Budgeting Spreadsheet: Create a budgeting spreadsheet to track your expenses and identify areas where you can save money.

Relevant Calculations and Formulas

Here are some relevant calculations and formulas that can help you estimate your costs:

• Calculating Volume of Logs in Board Feet: Board feet = (Length in feet x Width in inches x Thickness in inches) / 12
• Calculating Volume of Firewood in Cords: A cord of firewood is a stack that measures 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long, or 128 cubic feet.
• Estimating Drying Time: As mentioned earlier, Estimated drying time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content (%) – Target Moisture Content (%)) / Drying Rate (% per month).

Case Studies: Budgeting for Wood Processing

To illustrate the principles of budgeting for wood processing, let’s look at two case studies:

Case Study 1: Small-Scale Firewood Production

• Goal: Produce 10 cords of firewood for personal use.
• Resources: Owns land with trees, chainsaw, splitting maul.
• Costs:
  • Chainsaw maintenance: \$75
  • Fuel: \$100
  • Sharpening stone: \$25
  • Permits: \$0 (no permits required)
  • Total Costs: \$200
• Cost per Cord: \$20

Case Study 2: Commercial Firewood Business

• Goal: Produce and sell 100 cords of firewood.
• Resources: Rents land, chainsaw, hydraulic log splitter, hires firewood handlers.
• Costs:
  • Timber purchase: \$2,000
  • Chainsaw maintenance: \$100
  • Log splitter rental: \$500
  • Fuel: \$500
  • Labor: \$3,000
  • Transportation: \$500
  • Permits: \$100
  • Total Costs: \$6,700
• Cost per Cord: \$67
• Selling Price per Cord: \$300
• Profit per Cord: \$233
• Total Profit: \$23,300

These case studies illustrate the different cost structures associated with small-scale and commercial wood processing operations.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, where does this leave you? Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking to split some firewood for your own hearth or a seasoned arborist considering a new felling axe, here are some actionable takeaways:

• Assess Your Needs: Carefully consider the type of wood you’ll be processing, the scale of your operation, and your budget.
• Research Your Options: Don’t just buy the first axe you see. Research different brands and models to find the one that best suits your needs.
• Factor in All Costs: Be sure to factor in all costs, including timber purchase, tool costs, labor costs, transportation costs, permits, and drying and storage costs.
• Create a Budget: Develop a detailed budget to track your expenses and identify areas where you can save money.
• Maintain Your Tools: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your tools and prevent costly repairs.
• Prioritize Safety: Always prioritize safety when working with wood processing tools. Wear appropriate safety gear and follow safe operating procedures.

The Stihl felling axe, despite its criticisms, remains a viable option for many wood processing tasks. By understanding its strengths and weaknesses, and by carefully considering the costs associated with wood processing, you can make informed decisions and achieve your goals.

Ultimately, the best axe is the one that feels right in your hands and gets the job done efficiently and safely. So, grab your axe, head into the woods, and enjoy the satisfaction of transforming raw wood into something useful. Just remember to budget wisely and stay safe!

Learn more