Just when I think innovation is dead, something like the Klax Lumberjack crosses my desk. Part hatchet, part multi-tool, it is one of those items I didn’t know I needed until I saw it in person. Designed by engineer and inventor Glenn Klecker, the Klax is available in four individual models. The most basic is the Klax Feller, a stripped down axehead designed to be lashed to any handle, even a branch, with para-cord. The Klax Woodsman is a simplified axehead with Klecker’s unique clamping mechanism which affixes the head to a handle. The most complex versions are the Lumberjack and Ti Lumberjack.
The Lumberjack model is constructed of machined stainless steel and features an axe edge, knife blade, hammer head, gut hook, five hex wrench indents, bottle opener, lanyard hole, ruler, and even a carabiner clip for easy transport. The axe edge even doubles as a curved ulu knife, a popular cooking tool.
It would be easy to dismiss the lumberjack as a kitschy novelty designed to appeal to the gear geek easily swooned by shiny objects. And, perhaps that is precisely what it is. But having put it to use, I have to admit it does work. As a small hatchet, it swings with surprising balance and cuts as well as any hatchet should. The clamping mechanism holds fast to the optional handle better than I expected and felt secure and solid.
As is true for any such multi-tool, it is very likely the hex wrench insets will not be useful in some tight spaces, but you can never know until the occasion arises to implement them. The quality is superb and there is no denying a lot of attention was given to its thoughtful design and fabrication. It has the finish detail of a premium product, and at $160, it carries a premium price. I would also predict that given the high quality of the Klax Lumberjack, you will have it in your kit for decades to come. It is well made.
Whether you use the Klax Lumberjack to fell a tree, skin game animals, fix a carburetor, or simply open a bottle of beer, one thing is guaranteed––It will always start a conversation. www.kleckerknives.com
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