Step 1: Your Template and Tracing

Your template is totally up to you. I chose this because i wanted to have an understanding of the fighting style they were used for. Anyway find your template and trace it onto your foam

You can get the foam at sporti.com

Step 2: Cutting Out Your Axe Head

You can use many different tools to cut out your axe head I used a "scroll saw" but another option is a "coping saw".

I suggest taking it nice and slow so you don't make mistakes you need to fix down the road. Try to avoid making the blade to thin.

Step 3: Grinding and Shaping

When grinding take great care not to make your blade to thin. I only made the lines noticeable.

I'm using my belt-sander for this, if you don't have one files will work just fine.

Just make somewhat wide sweeps to keep a consistent edge .This is my favorite part

Step 4: Drilling and Cutting Your Axe Head

I know I've said take great care like 10 time but with this especially TAKE GREAT CARE . Drill a hole in the axe head and attach your coping saw. Saw both sides and it should come right out.

Step 5: Paint

I have been "experimenting" , by experimenting i mean being to lazy to look up the best way to do it , anyway id id a coat of black primer, next I did a coat of chrome then black over-spray. next i did 2 coats of semi-gloss acrylic sealer.

If you have a better way of doing it please let me know.

Step 6: the Shaft

To make the shaft all ya need to do is rip down a 2x4 in half . Next you need to use a "planer" or a "draw knife" and bring it down to where its comfortable in your hands. Cut where your axe head can fit snug*don't know the cool name for it*. Then simply use your favorite stain, what i used was "espresso".

Step 7: Shaft Details

Now we need to attach the head. it should a tight fit but don't worry if it doesn't take you five minutes to go on * laughs hysterically* . The next steps are optional i did a very tight hemp cord wrap that took me FOREVER but it was worth it, it added a ton of character. And if you have a makers mark slap it on there.