From an Idea to the Workshop: The Story Behind Our Custom Firefighter

From an Idea to the Workshop: The Story Behind Our Custom Firefighter Axe Awards

Every now and then, a project comes through our shop doors that reminds us exactly why we love what we do.

This was one of those projects.

It all started with a message from the Uniacke & District Fire Department in Mount Uniacke, Nova Scotia. They were looking for something different. Something special. Something you couldn’t just order online.

They wanted custom awards for their team — a meaningful way to recognize the firefighters who go above and beyond.

Their idea?
Firefighter Axes.

Not real axes for chopping wood — but handcrafted wooden axes that looked the part and felt just as special.

The Challenge: Build Something Nobody Else Has

Right away, we knew this was going to be a fun challenge.

We didn’t want something flat or simple. These axes needed to feel real — with depth, detail, and character.

The process looked like this:

We designed both the axe handle and axe head in 3D
CNC cut all the parts from clear pine
Used our Trotec Speedy 300 Laser to handle the fine engraving work — logos, names, award text, and more
Hand-painted all the key details to make them pop
And sealed everything with multiple coats of industrial-grade conversion varnish for a durable, long-lasting finish

Every part of these axes was built from scratch — right here in our little shop in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia.

The Final Product

Each axe came in at about 20" long — the perfect size for display on a wall, shelf, or at the firehall.

Handles were personalized with award details. Axe heads proudly displayed department logos, names, and dates. And all of it came together to create a one-of-a-kind gift that can’t be found in a store.

Safe to say — the Uniacke & District Fire Department loved them.

And honestly? So did we.

Now Available to Order

We’re excited to now offer these Custom Firefighter Axe Awards to anyone looking for a special gift or award for the firefighters in their life.

We offer:

Standard Axe — Clean, finished axe ready for display
Fully Custom Axe — Engraved, painted, and personalized to your exact details

Each one is made to order — and built to last.

Want to See More?

Check out some of the build photos below to see how these axes came to life — from rough cut wood to the finished piece.

And if you’d like to learn more or order your own, check out our product page here:

👉 Shop Custom Firefighter Axe Awards

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