In the delicate yet demanding task of cutting tree roots, choosing the right tool can make all the difference.
While the best axe for cutting tree roots might seem like a logical choice, you might be surprised to learn that there are other effective contenders for the job.
The mattock pick axe, with its unique advantage of a horizontally aligned blade, has been hailed by many as an outstanding tool for this purpose.
We will delve deeper into why the mattock pick axe often outperforms traditional axes while dealing with tough roots, and explore other options that truly shine in this specific forestry endeavor.
| Features | Mattock Pick Axe | Normal Axe |
| Blade Orientation | Horizontal, which makes it more effective for straight-on cutting and digging | Vertical, which is great for chopping down trees but less effective at cutting roots |
| Use | Specifically designed for cutting roots and digging | Primarily used for chopping wood |
| Versatility | Includes an axe blade at the back, making it highly versatile | Specialized in splitting wood |
| End User Reviews | Mattock pick axe has been positively reviewed for its efficiency in cutting tree roots | Although efficient in wood splitting, traditional axes are seen as less capable for root cutting |
Best axe for cutting tree roots 2023
A mattock pick axe could be considered more effective than a standard axe for cutting tree roots. A major factor distinguishing a mattock from a typical axe is the orientation of the blade.
While an axe blade is vertical for chopping, a mattock’s blade is horizontal, making it suitable for digging and chopping.
The tool allows for straight-on cutting, as opposed to the downward chopping motion of a typical axe. This makes it easier to cut tree roots. In fact, a cutter mattock even boasts an axe blade on the back specifically designed for cutting through roots.
Comparison of Our Top Picks for Best Axe for Cutting Tree Roots:
Regardless of the specific tasks you need to perform, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different tools should help to identify the optimal choice for cutting tree roots.
WilFiks Cutter Mattock, Heavy Duty Pick Axe
As a personal blogger on gardening and outdoor tools, I have had the pleasure of using the WilFiks Cutter Mattock for quite some time now.
After putting it through its paces dealing with stubborn tree roots, I can confidently say that this mattock pickaxe offers impressive performance, durability, and ease of use.
The standout feature of the WilFiks Cutter Mattock is its Forged Heat Treated Steel Blades. These blades are incredibly durable and can withstand even the most robust tree roots you’ll encounter.
The Adze Hoe Design offers an edge over a standard axe, as it allows for more versatility in cutting, weeding, and prying.
For those concerned about comfort and safety, the Anti-Slip Grip and Ergonomic Shock Reduction Handle provide an optimal combination to minimize accidents and discomfort during use. The handle design also ensures better control and precision while working on tree roots.
Pros
✅ Forged Heat Treated Steel Blades: The sharp and durable blades on this mattock pickaxe can withstand the toughest of tree roots, making the cutting process significantly easier.
✅ Adze Hoe Design: Its adze hoe design allows for efficient weeding, prying, and chopping, providing more versatility than a standard axe.
✅ Anti-Slip Grip: The handle features an anti-slip grip which ensures stability during usage, reducing potential accidents while working on tree roots.
✅ Ergonomic Shock Reduction Handle: The ergonomic handle reduces vibrations and shock upon impact, allowing for extended use with minimal discomfort.
Cons
❌ Weight: Though the 15″ size offers great leverage, some users may find it slightly heavy for prolonged use, especially if you’re dealing with numerous tree roots.
Hooyman Pick Mattock with Heavy Duty Forged Head Construction
As someone who regularly engages with various outdoor activities, I have come to appreciate the efficiency and ethos of the Hooyman Pick Mattock.
This robust tool has been an absolute game-changer in tackling stubborn tree roots and I’m excited to share my insights with anyone navigating this terrain.
The Heavy Duty Forged Head Construction is the unique selling proposition of the Hooyman Pick Mattock. Its outstanding durability combats even the most resilient tree roots with ease while maintaining integrity over a long period.
The Ergonomic No-Slip H-Grip Handle ensures secure grip and reduced fatigue over extended use. The Adze Hoe and Pick combination provide a versatile solution for breaking, prying, and digging, making it an essential addition to your gardening toolkit.
Pros
✅ Heavy Duty Forged Head Construction: The head of this pick mattock is constructed from 1045 high strength forged steel, making it absolutely perfect for tough tree root scenarios.
✅ Solid Fiberglass Core: The fiberglass core provides an added sense of robustness to the tool, amplifying your force and ensuring durability.
✅ Ergonomic No-Slip H-Grip Handle: This handle is emphatically user-oriented, designed to prevent slips and enhance grip, particularly when it gets wet.
✅ Adze Hoe and Pick: The pick side is exemplary at breaking and prying, while the adze side can handle digging and cutting tasks. This is an ideal combination for comprehensive root management.
Cons
❌ Balance: Some users might find the balance a little off-putting as the head is significantly heavier than the handle.
Forged Adze Pick, Weeding Mattock Hoe, Pick Axe 15-Inch
I’ve found the Forged Adze Pickaxe to be an incredibly valuable and effective tool for dealing with those pesky tree roots.
Its performance in both my garden and more extensive outdoor projects has been noteworthy.
What sets the Forged Adze Pick, Weeding Mattock Hoe, Pick Axe 15-Inch apart from its rivals is its One Piece Intact Drop Forged construction. This design offers exceptional durability, making it well-suited to tackling resilient tree roots.
Its Plastic Coated Fiberglass Handle provides a comfortable grip, ensuring ease of use in prolonged periods. And the 3-in-1 design is another valuable aspect, providing versatility that allows for use in a variety of gardening tasks.
Pros
✅ One Piece Intact Drop Forged: This manufacturing process ensures robustness and durability, guaranteeing the tool can withstand the rigors of root-cutting.
✅ Plastic Coated Fiberglass Handle: This feature provides a comfortable grip, reducing user fatigue during prolonged use. Plus, its plastic coating makes it resilient to outdoor conditions.
✅ Versatility: This isn’t just an axe; the adze and hoe side broaden its use from rooting to weeding and hoeing, a real 3-in-1 staple for any gardener.
Cons
❌ Weight: Weighing 1.4 pounds, some users may find this tool slightly heavy, particularly during extended periods of use.
Glorousamc Forged Adze Pick
As an avid gardener and blogger, I’ve been the proud owner of the glorousamc Forged Adze Pick for several months now.
This pickaxe has effortlessly become an essential part of my toolshed, especially when it comes to handling stubborn tree roots.
It’s a standout performer both in my small, home garden and in more intensive projects outdoors.
What sets this tool apart is its robust One Piece Intact Drop Forged construction. This pickaxe is incredibly hard-wearing, which makes it ideal for tackling tough tree roots.
The Plastic Coated Fiberglass Handle ensures ease of use over extended time periods. Its 3-in-1 design also elevates it beyond competitors, providing versatility that extends to various gardening tasks.
Pros
✅ One Piece Intact Drop Forged: As someone who values intentional design and durability, the drop-forged construction of this tool is impressive. Not only does it provide sturdiness but also ensures unfaltering performance in root cutting.
✅ Plastic Coated Fiberglass Handle: I was pleasantly surprised by the user-friendly design focus. The plastic-coated fiberglass handle offers a secure, comfortable grip, lowering fatigue during prolonged use, and holds up well against the elements.
✅ Versatility: With an adze on one side and a hoe on the other, this pickaxe goes beyond being just an axe. This multi-functionality makes it the go-to tool for gardening tasks, including rooting, weeding, and hoeing.
Cons
❌ Weight: At 5 pounds, some users might find it a bit heavy, especially during prolonged usage. However, I see this as a testament to its sturdy construction and durability.
TABOR TOOLS Pick Mattock with Fiberglass Handle
I’ve been using the TABOR TOOLS Pick Mattock with Fiberglass Handle for a considerable amount of time, and boy has it become an essential tool in my gardening arsenal.
If you’re looking to pick the best axe for cutting tree roots, this tool should be your go-to.
Pros
✅ The Multi-Purpose Application is exceptional. It tackles medium to heavy-duty cultivating jobs easily, without straining or expending a lot of energy. It’s fantastic for archaeological projects, preparing flower beds, and even onion or carrot harvesting.
✅ The Dual-Purpose Head is a standout feature – use the pick’s action to break up and loosen soil, or cultivate your vegetable gardens. It can navigate through hardpan soil and cut through small shrub roots.
✅ The Lightweight 35″ Fiberglass Handle is a gem. It’s lighter and stronger than wood, absorbing strike shock and vibration, reducing body fatigue. Plus, the bright orange color makes it easy to find amidst the grass.
✅ With the Comfortable Rubber Non-Slip Grip, handling and control are improved significantly, reducing hand and arm fatigue. The grip absorbs initial strike shock, offering maximum comfort.
Cons
❌ The only minor quibble is that it requires assembly before first use. It’s a simple one-minute task.
Buying Guide: Axe for Cutting Tree Roots
Choosing the right axe for cutting tree roots can be a tough call, particularly if you are new to this space. This guide aims to break down the essential features to look for, to pick the right tool for the job.
- Material: The material of the axe head should be high-quality, rust-resistant, and durable steel. It needs to withstand repeated impact against hard roots without compromising its sharpness.
- Head Design: Consider an axe with a multi-purpose head, which offers both a mattock end for breaking hard ground and a narrow end for cutting roots.
- Handle Length: Handle length significantly impacts maneuverability and effort required. A long-handle axe gives you greater swing power and reach, effective for thicker, deeper roots. However, if precision or working in a confined space is necessary, a short-handle axe is more appropriate.
- Handle Material: Modern axes come with fiberglass or steel handles as they are robust, lightweight, and absorb shock better than traditional wood. Fiberglass handles are also weather resistant and require less maintenance.
- Grip: A good axe should have a non-slip grip to ensure it doesn’t slip from your hand while using it. The grip should also be ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue during extended use.
- Weight: Weight plays a crucial role in handling the axe. A well-balanced axe offers excellent control while cutting roots.
- Brand Reputation & Reviews: Brands well-regarded for their quality and durability should be your go-to. Check customer reviews to get real-time experience and insights about the product.
- Safety Features: Ensure the axe has safety features like a protective sheath for the blade when not in use.
- Price: While expensive axes tend to offer better quality and performance, there are still affordable models with great features. Determine a budget range that suits your needs.
Remember, the key to finding the best axe for cutting tree roots lies in understanding your specific needs. Always ensure the features complement your style of work, comfort, and safety requirements.
How do you remove roots with Mattock?
To remove roots with a mattock, follow the steps below:
- Clear the area: Remove any debris, such as rocks or brush, from around the root area to create a clear working space.
- Select the right mattock: Choose a pick mattock with a solid head and sharp cutting blade or adze for cutting tree roots.
- Dig around the roots: Use the mattock to loosen the soil around the roots. This will expose the lateral roots and taproot.
- Cutting roots: Flip the head of the mattock and use the vertical blade or adze to cut through the exposed roots using a striking motion.
- Leverage for extraction: If needed, use the mattock as leverage to help lift and remove stubborn roots from the ground.
- Dispose of the roots: Collect the cut roots and dispose of them properly.
Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when working with a mattock.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of axe do you use to cut roots?
To cut roots, it is recommended to use a multi-purpose axe, such as a hatchet, machete, or an A-Frame axe.
What tool is used to remove roots from the soil?
To remove roots from the soil, a mattock, specifically, a pick mattock or a cutter mattock, is often used. A pick mattock has a sharp point for breaking and moving small rocks, while a cutter mattock has an axe blade for cutting through roots.
What is the easiest way to cut tree roots?
The easiest way to cut tree roots involves using a sharp cutting tool such as a hand saw or a power saw designed for cutting wood.
Conclusion:
When picking the best tool, personal comfort, strength, and the nature of the task should dictate your decision.
Always remember that appropriate maintenance after usage prolongs the life of your axe, thereby maximizing its value. Invest wisely in your tools and they will certainly pay off in enhanced productivity and convenience.
