While a fire axe might not be as recognizable a symbol to the general public as the fire truck or Dalmatian, it is nevertheless an invaluable tool that is often highly prized by the firefighters who wield them. At the various fundraising events hosted by the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund each year, fire axes are among the most popular auction items available to bid on. This is likely due in part to the fact that Fire Axe Inc., an LAFD favorite, produces these high-quality axes.
In addition to donating axes for events and customizing them for the winners, Jason Knight, the founder of Fire Axe Inc., also donates the trophy axes that are mounted on plaques and given as gifts to sponsors and other contributors to the organization.
As a firefighter, Jason sees the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund as a wonderful part of the community that he loves. Like many of his colleagues, his biggest fears revolve around what would happen to his family if the unthinkable should happen. The knowledge that there is an organization there to assist families in exactly that sort of situation helps him sleep easier at night. And thanks in no small part to his generous donations of beautiful axes, Widows & Orphans is able to continue helping those in need.
Fire Axe Inc. started out as a hobby for Jason, but quickly grew into a viable business thanks to demand. Based in Valencia, the company sells 300-500 axes a month and is the current primary fire axe of the Los Angeles Fire Department. The axes are inspired by the legendary “Seagrave Axe” used by the LAFD in the early 1900s and are constructed from high-grade tool steel with hickory or fiberglass handles. In addition to pickhead and flathead axes, Fire Axe Inc. also sells custom-engraved trophy axes that make excellent retirement gifts.
You can view more information about the different axes produced by Fire Axe Inc. at firefighteraxe.com.
By Jody Houser