The purpose of an axe guard or sheath is to protect the axe blade during storage or transportation. The bit is protected from dings and chips, while anything the blade may strike is also protected from being cut or notched.
Some people distinguish between an axe guard, which just covers the bit, and an axe sheath which covers the entire head.
The device in either form consists of a sheath or pouch, made of a tough fabric, sewn and riveted into a suitable shape, that is slipped over the blade or head and held in place by any of various means. The sheath also protects the sides of the head from being scuffed or scratched (important for highly polished axe heads).
Although there are generic replacement axe sheaths and axe guards, the best are specifically designed to fit the shape and size of the blades they are intended to protect. Most suppliers of good-quality axes include a custom guard or sheath with each unit.
Axe Edge Guard Construction
Common materials used for axe blade sheaths and guards are
- leather (often embossed and highly decorated)
- vinyl fabric (synthetic leather)
- heavy canvas
- ballistic nylon (typical of "military" style blade guards and sheaths)
- molded plastic
A recent trend, especially for the newer "high tech" axes with polyamide handles, is custom-shaped guards made of thermoformed plastic that clip over the head.
How Axe Blade Guards and Sheaths are Held in Place
The anchor is usually a strap or flap, made of leather or webbing, that passes behind, around, or over the head in some manner and is fastened in place. In the case of plastic guards, moulded clips snap onto the head to retain the guard.
- One common design, especially for guards, is a single strap that passes behind the heel or butt of the head and fastens on the side of the head with a buckle or snap. If this strap is not fastened securely, it may be possible for the strap – and thus the guard – to slip off.
- When this design is used for a sheath, the strap lies in the angle between heel and haft for a secure anchor. This type cannot slip off.
- A common design for sheaths has a through-hole for the haft; this type is held in place by a flap that folds over the top of the head and is fastened with a snap.
- A wrap-around strap that criss-crosses around the head and on either side of the haft is less common and is perhaps an older style. It is also a secure covering.
- Other edge guards are of thermoformed plastic which snap over the head and are retained by a friction fit or by molded clips
Regardless of material type, construction, or fastening method, an axe guard or sheath will protect the bit (blade) and surroundings from damage.
Link to Home Made Axe Guards
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