Surviving the cannibal-infested island of Sons of the Forest requires reliable equipment to harvest resources and fend off aggressive threats. While players begin their journey with a basic tactical tool, upgrading your arsenal quickly becomes essential for long-term survival. Locating the specialized axes hidden across the map dramatically improves both your base-building efficiency and your melee combat capabilities.
How to Find the Modern Axe
The Modern Axe is an exceptional early-game upgrade that players can easily secure on their first day without any specialized diving equipment. It is located at an abandoned campsite on the northwestern side of the island, tucked away near a series of paths. You can claim the weapon directly from the chest of a deceased survivor sitting outside one of the tents.
This tool serves as a substantial upgrade over your starting gear due to its increased chopping speed and heavier striking damage. Collecting this tool early allows you to construct defensive perimeters much faster while providing solid protection against initial scouting parties. It remains a reliable staple for survival before venturing into the island's deep underground networks.
Unlocking the Firefighter Axe
Players looking for the ultimate harvesting tool will want to seek out the powerful Firefighter Axe hidden deep underground. Retrieving this heavy weapon requires a shovel to uncover a buried maintenance hatch located on the northern section of the map. Once you dig open the entrance, descend into Maintenance Cave A and proceed down the linear hallway.
You will find the Firefighter Axe stored safely inside a glass display case mounted on the back wall of a storage area. This massive weapon delivers the highest block value and structural damage of any harvesting tool in the game, making tree removal incredibly fast. However, its heavy weight translates to slower attack speeds, requiring careful stamina management during intense combat encounters.
Choosing the Best Axe for Survival
Determining the best overall axe depends heavily on whether your current focus is efficient base construction or quick enemy engagement. The Firefighter Axe excels at clearing dense forested areas rapidly, letting you build massive structures with minimal swinging effort. Its high defensive stats also make it perfect for players who prefer to block incoming attacks and deliver single, devastating counter-strikes.
Conversely, many experienced survivors favor the Modern Axe as the superior choice for everyday exploration and unpredictable skirmishes. It offers a perfect balance of fast swing speeds, moderate stamina consumption, and respectable cutting power. Keeping your preferences in mind helps ensure you carry the ideal tool for the dangerous challenges waiting on the island.
