The finger notch in the axe head allows a grip where your hand is placed almost straight above the center of the cutting edge, for increased precision. Like all our axes, the Stålberg is hand forged and made from Swedish quality steel. As part of the head-forging process, the steel axe head is struck 40-60 times, thereby increasing its density and resulting in great durability. This axe is named after one of Hults Bruk's most experienced blacksmiths from the first half of the 20th century, Ernst Stålberg.