How Do You Get an Axe in Animal Crossing: A Guide to Crafting, Trading, and Unlocking Tools

How Do You Get an Axe in Animal Crossing: A Guide to Crafting, Trading, and Unlocking Tools

Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a game that thrives on creativity, resourcefulness, and exploration. One of the most essential tools for any budding island designer is the axe. Whether you’re chopping down trees to clear space, gathering wood for crafting, or simply shaping your island to perfection, the axe is a must-have item. But how do you get an axe in Animal Crossing? Let’s dive into the various methods, tips, and tricks to acquire this indispensable tool.


1. The Flimsy Axe: Your First Step

The journey to obtaining an axe begins with the Flimsy Axe, the most basic version of the tool. To craft a Flimsy Axe, you’ll need the following materials:

  • 5 Tree Branches: These can be found by shaking trees on your island.
  • 1 Stone: Stones are scattered across your island or can be obtained by hitting rocks with a shovel.

Once you have the materials, head to a DIY workbench. If you don’t have one yet, Tom Nook will provide you with a recipe to craft a simple workbench early in the game. Craft your Flimsy Axe, and you’re ready to start chopping!


2. Upgrading to the Stone Axe

While the Flimsy Axe is useful, it’s not very durable and will break after a few uses. To upgrade to a more robust tool, you’ll want to craft the Stone Axe. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 3 Wood: Obtained by hitting trees with your Flimsy Axe.
  • 1 Stone: The same material used for the Flimsy Axe.

The Stone Axe is more durable and allows you to gather wood without cutting down trees, making it ideal for sustainable resource gathering.


3. Unlocking the Regular Axe

The Regular Axe is the most powerful version of the tool and is capable of chopping down trees. To unlock the recipe for the Regular Axe, you’ll need to progress further in the game. Here’s how:

  • Purchase the “Pretty Good Tools” DIY Recipe: This recipe pack becomes available for sale at Nook’s Cranny for 3,000 Bells after you’ve upgraded the shop.
  • Crafting Materials: You’ll need 1 Flimsy Axe, 3 Wood, and 1 Iron Nugget to craft the Regular Axe.

With the Regular Axe, you can finally clear out unwanted trees and reshape your island to your heart’s content.


4. Alternative Methods to Get an Axe

If crafting isn’t your thing, there are other ways to get an axe in Animal Crossing:

  • Trading with Friends: Visit a friend’s island and ask if they have an extra axe to spare. Trading is a great way to get tools quickly.
  • Balloon Presents: Occasionally, balloons floating across your island may drop presents containing tools, including axes.
  • Visiting Mystery Islands: Use a Nook Miles Ticket to visit a mystery island. Sometimes, you’ll find tools lying around or in the recycling bin at the island’s entrance.

5. Tips for Using Your Axe Effectively

  • Avoid Overuse: Axes have limited durability, so use them wisely. Always carry a backup or the materials to craft a new one.
  • Tree Management: Use the Stone Axe to gather wood without cutting down trees. Save the Regular Axe for when you need to remove trees entirely.
  • Customization: Customize your axe at a DIY workbench to reset its durability and keep it looking fresh.

6. Why Axes Are Essential in Animal Crossing

Axes are more than just tools for chopping wood. They play a crucial role in island development, allowing you to:

  • Clear Space: Remove trees and stumps to make room for buildings, paths, and decorations.
  • Gather Resources: Collect wood for crafting furniture, tools, and other items.
  • Design Your Island: Shape your island’s landscape to match your vision, whether it’s a lush forest or a minimalist paradise.

FAQs

Q: Can I buy an axe from Nook’s Cranny?
A: No, axes are not sold directly at Nook’s Cranny. You’ll need to craft them using DIY recipes.

Q: How many times can I use an axe before it breaks?
A: The Flimsy Axe breaks after 30 uses, the Stone Axe after 100 uses, and the Regular Axe after 100 uses.

Q: Can I customize my axe?
A: Yes, you can customize your axe at a DIY workbench using customization kits. This also resets its durability.

Q: What happens if I chop down all the trees on my island?
A: Chopping down all the trees will reduce your island’s natural resources. Make sure to replant saplings or use the Stone Axe to gather wood sustainably.

Q: Can I get a golden axe?
A: Yes, the golden axe is a rare and durable tool. You can unlock it by breaking 100 axes or by completing specific tasks on your island.


In conclusion, getting an axe in Animal Crossing is a straightforward process that opens up a world of possibilities for your island. Whether you’re crafting, trading, or exploring, the axe is a tool you’ll rely on throughout your adventure. So grab your materials, head to the DIY workbench, and start chopping your way to the perfect island!