Kanenori Nata Single-Bevel Carbon Steel Japanese Axe 180mm C-21

I chose this Nata over others because of its traditional design and materials. Its carbon steel blade is more easily sharpened than stainless blades. The fit and finish of the materials are fine. The wooden handle is comfortable...but only if you wear light leather gloves (or something similar) for serious chopping. There is a deep groove in the handle to allow the disassembly of the axe as needed. The single bevel edge allows for both slicing and chopping, in the kitchen or out of doors. The heavy blade and the curve of the handle give a lot of force for chopping. A two-handed grip is possible. This is a good tool for trimming thin branches from brush and trees. It is also useful for debarking logs and for light planing of timbers.