About this project
$222,229
1,784
I am Heikki and this is my invention. 20 years ago I moved to deep forest of Sipoo in Finland. I started cutting down trees and clearing the rocky site to build a home for my wife and me, to enjoy our retirement. Very soon I got angry on traditional axes, because they were so dangerous and hard to work with. The axe struck me more than once. I had to swing the axe high over my head to build up enough speed to split those fresh logs and eventually this activity started to give me back pain.
Years and years went by and numerous ideas began to take shape. One day I was levering yard stones with a crowbar and then it struck me – I finally knew the answer to my problem! I was sure that crowbar’s prying power over big rocks and stumps could be also applied to an axe. I threw the crowbar into the bushes, ran to the kitchen and started to sketch out my new lever-based axe.
I realized my plans by making numerous prototypes of my axe at a local steel workshop. Prototype by prototype I developed new features to make my invention safer and more effective. Finally I got to this combination of beautiful design and incomparable functionality.
Now, together with my team, we have managed to make a small production batch. However, to produce on a larger scale, we require expensive production tooling. This far the feedback from users has been amazing! And most importantly, there have been no accidents with Leveraxe since we started selling them.
Recently, we started thinking how could we make more of these axes and how to make more people happy with this axe. We know that the design is finally ready to be brought in front of wider public but this is where we need your help.
At this moment we are basically in homestretch with all our R&D work. Together with our team we have sorted out all engineering issues and chosen materials to be used for the new version of Leveraxe.
The new handle will be made of engineering compound, characterized by high mechanical strength, stiffness and thermal resistance. Most futuristic about this part is that it is hollow inside, making the Leveraxe even lighter, which in turn helps to build up more speed when in action. Furthermore, this polyamide offers high toughness at low temperatures as well as easy processing during production.
The new axe head will be made of iron alloy, which enables us to produce more complicated products in one step but also offer excellent wear resistance in later use. Regarding the design we will keep all the proven features like the side hook, which will clamp on the log after the swing, thus reducing the risk of hitting yourself.
We have totally reinvented the oldest tool known to mankind. Leveraxe is a smart wood-splitting device. It is simply clever!
Leveraxe is based on a lever mechanism and rotational action. The head is attached from the side, not the center, which alters its center of gravity.
After you hit a log, Leveraxe head will break in few millimeters and then stops. At the same time counterweight on the right side of the head forces the axe to fall sideways, splitting the log apart with ease. Because of that Leveraxe can handle all common hardwood.
We are currently working together with top manufacturers to produce the new version of Leveraxe. However, to produce on a larger scale we require expensive production tooling.
Please help us fund our project and be part of this historical adventure of reinventing the oldest tool known to mankind - lets make it happen together!
We have been testing prototypes with people around the world and the feedback has been more than amazing. Leveraxe really works like promised.
Thank you for considering backing our project in Kickstarter. I am sure you will find nothing else like Leveraxe – in terms of design, function and overall quality – anywhere in the world.
To reward you helping us kick-start this project, we offer our invention in limited colors and with very special price. Make sure to check out the green Leveraxe Kickstarter Special Edition in available pledges!
Should you choose a Leveraxe, congratulations and welcome to the family – as you are starting a wonderful journey amongst many others! It will give you many years of enjoyment as it is built to last decades.
Kind regards,
Heikki Kärnä
Inventor
INTERNATIONAL BACKERS
We are proud to have Leveraxe fans all over the world. We will ship Leveraxe worldwide. Please note that you may be responsible for duties, fees and taxes applicable when ordering to your region.
ESTIMATED DELIVERY
While we do not expect this to change, it is possible that the estimated shipment month may shift, but we keep you guys posted! Also, please read "Risks and challenges" section.
WARRANTY
We stand firmly behind our products. Each Leveraxe head has 10 years warranty.
NEED HELP?
We are here for you. If you have questions at any time, during or after the campaign, you can always reach us at kickstarter@leveraxe.com.
Let the whole world know about it
Risks and challenges
A lot can go wrong getting our latest prototype production-ready, but in current stage we are very confident. To support our confidence is the fact that we have already done it once before. The things we worry about:
Finalizing the Leveraxe head and handle production moulds may take longer than we have currently planned. This may mean a few weeks delay in estimated shipping deadlines.
We haven't finalized the optimal packaging for the new Leveraxe yet (something we would like to do together with you giving some options to choose from), but if something goes wrong here, we have our current solid solution we can use.
Forecasting risk is basically the only real thing we worry about. We can't predict the outcome of our Kickstarter campaign. Should we miss our projections, we might expect some delays with delivery, but we’ll let you know as quickly as possible.
Learn about accountability on KickstarterQuestions about this project? Check out the FAQ
Support this project
Funding period
- (30 days)