Reviews

Good quality SCBA mask quick release! Hat and T-shirt are awesome also. I’ll be buying again.

It was exactly what I was hoping for very sturdy easy to install and provided Loctite for The Hardware I know I love it for many years

Exactly what I was looking for. Great craftsmanship and simple ton install. Thank you!

Awesome people and super cool products! Broad selection of diverse products, from notebooks to guitar straps to firefighter gear (super cool and something I had never seen before). Had some great conversations the two times we visited on our trip and bought a few Christmas presents for family and friends. The shop is decorated beautifully and curated to fit the mountain vibe of downtown Waynesville. Even if this doesn’t seem like your thing, go check it out!

I just received my radio strap. Talk about solid quality. 10/10. It was worth the wait. I'll be sure to tell anyone that asks, that you guys make the best stuff.

I recently received my leather radio strap and I'm thoroughly impressed with the excellent material quality, especially considering the company overcame significant logistical challenges, having weathered two hurricanes during production, consistently meeting our fire service needs and making the wait worthwhile.

They aren’t kidding about lead time but it’s worth it. Radio strap and pouch quality is amazing. My only issue was the coloring of the stitch which was my fault and the emblem on the radio pouch was really really small.

When I was 17 I bought, in Asheville, NC, what I thought was the coolest belt I had ever seen. Decades later I outgrew the belt but could never find a leatherworker who could reproduce the belt in my size. Until I found Spencer, Courtney and Ashley at Axe and Awl. Spencer offered no guarantees but said he would give it a go.... Wow, did he ever. Better than the original in some ways, adding to the silly, crazy story of a belt I've carried with me most of my life. The belt will be with me to the end. Maybe (but I doubt it, lol) one of my sons will want to keep it....Forever products are worth every dime! These good people are worth your time and money...

The overall quality of the strap is superior, however there lies significant room for improvement for communication. Upon first ordering my strap lead times were approximately 10-12 weeks, 13 weeks after ordering i received the email notification that my strap was in progress, approximately a week later after no update I emailed to inquire about the status of my order, in which it was replied that there had been a delay in the tannery, understandably out of their control I believe customers should have been notified that their orders would be delayed further, 20 weeks after purchasing I had still received no updates and was still left wondering the status, so I sent another email asking for any update and a timeline and received the reply that it was in progress still. while i understand there are extenuating circumstances that are well beyond our control, communication into the matter would be appreciated. After 5 months I received my strap, overall quality is excellent, high quality leather, stitching, and hardware, however the U.S. Army stamp appears to be painted in a rush as it has paint bleed all around it and lost all detail within it. Overall will definitely recommend to friends and family and make purchases from in the future, just room for improvement in small areas.

Lovely shop with beautiful items to purchase. Friendly customer service. We purchased belts & sweat shirt. Would definitely go back.

Absolutely beautiful craftsmanship with lots of various leather pieces to choose from. I loved the shoes!

Was in town visiting but happened to stop by their store front on a day they were closed. I called hoping they might be able to help me over the phone, long story short, they opened their doors for me, built me the item I was looking for, and proceeded to customize another item as I waited. Saved me time and money and gave me the opportunity to meet the awesome people behind the products. Excellent service and quality. Will continue to be a customer as needs arise.

Honestly, I have never left any type of review on any Purchase I’ve ever made. This will be the first. I am extremely disappointed with the product that I purchased, and the customer service that I received at the FDIC. I purchased A radio strap combo and a helmet band. I also purchased more stamps and spent almost $200. The product seems to be well-made that’s why I went with the spender over the Others, but whoever put the stamps on put them on crooked And also hit too hard so you can see the outlines of the stamp. I went back to show them, and I was told that it was supposed to look like that and then he admitted That it was a little off. I asked him if there was anything that he Could do and he said nope sorry Can’t help your brother. I have a business on my days off, And if I were to put something up crooked and a customer asked me hey that’s crooked and I say Sorry, can’t help you just deal with it pretty much. I wouldn’t be in business for long. I didn’t go back to ask for a new strap. I honestly just wanted them to say man. I’m sorry is there Anything we can do. Like I said, extremely disappointed UPDATE!!!! Like I said, I’ve never left a review before it is what it is, (in the words of my son “you get what you get and don’t throw a fit” ) but I want to give the owner of AXE and AWL (Spencer) praise for reaching out and making things right. Honestly, that’s all I wanted was a phone call and he did that and more. He has offered to fix the issue And for that, I’m extremely grateful. The material and craftsmanship of their product is Exceptional. It was just a mistake and they made it right. I would definitely recommend using this company for your leather needs. Thank you again Spencer for reaching out.

Just received my second radio strap from Axe and Awl. My first one lasted for years and was still perfect but I was promoted and wanted more personalization on it. The quality is unmatched and the workmanship is top notch. There aren't any leather shops I've found that have a product like this. I don't know if it's just my personal preference but the leather feel and color just look so much better than anything I've seen. I would highly recommend Axe and Awl. Really really happy with what I have.

They were great worth the wait for the amount of detail put into the product I would definitely recommend. I sent them a message on instagram and they even let me change one thing so that’s a plus. Both me and my friend had a great few experiences with them!

Love the quality of the cotton t-shirts! Great colors and very comfortable.

A beautiful store with great quality and selection. Don’t miss their evening market events!

Wonderful business! The owner took the time to offer belt options. Deciding to have a belt made, he fitted and walked me through each decision. He shared about the town and how he came to make belts…very personable. The belt was shipped and received in the time frame stated. The belt is made perfectly and is beautiful! I truly believe it will last years!

Just received my leather portfolio and 2 leather trays. Big THANKS to Spencer and the team at Axe and Awl Leatherworks. Everything I had made/purchased from y’all looks magnificent. Thanks again for the belts from a couple years ago. Still holding up very well. - Eddie Laubengeyer

I just received my new belt from Axe & Awl. It is absolutely beautiful, and the sizing is perfect.

Order the pair of suspenders from a turnout gear for firefighting. The buttons were connected to the gear. Continued to come undone once I called, and they explained that this was an issue that they had a lot with the type I ordered. They explained how they would fix the problem if I returned they to them, but it would cost me shipping. So I did what they told me to do, which helped that issue, but they still come undone a lot! Now, the actual button snaps have broken! I gave them 2 stars because the quality of leather is exceptional. Other than that, it would have been less

My husband and I joined a group to make our own belts during one of the Axe and Awl Leatherworks classes. It was such a fun, unique activity to do in Waynesville. I learned so much about the leather industry. It was a perfect mix of knowledge and laughs. I am not very crafty so I was even more proud of myself for leaving the class with a beautiful leather belt that I made myself! We stayed after the class and had a glass of wine and enjoyed talking to the staff and shopping. I'd highly recommend this if you're looking for something different to do in town.

Such a great company! Loved the belt making class. From the incense smells to the music, the ambiance was welcoming. Very educational history of leatherworks and how it affects Waynesville. Neat to learn how the company came to be. Staff are wonderful. Very knowledgeable on leathermaking. Very patient too. Would highly recommend their classes or their leather goods. We have several items and they hold up so well.

This shop is one of a kind! My husband got a belt that will last forever. This trip I got handbag. Just gorgeous. The staff was so helpful and informative. A must to see the beautiful leather work.

Such a great company! Loved the belt making class. From the incense smells to the music, the ambiance was welcoming. Very educational history of leatherworks and how it affects Waynesville. Neat to learn how the company came to be. Staff are wonderful. Very knowledgeable on leathermaking. Very patient too. Would highly recommend their classes or their leather goods. We have several items and they hold up so well.

My husband and I joined a group to make our own belts during one of the Axe and Awl Leatherworks classes. It was such a fun, unique activity to do in Waynesville. I learned so much about the leather industry. It was a perfect mix of knowledge and laughs. I am not very crafty so I was even more proud of myself for leaving the class with a beautiful leather belt that I made myself! We stayed after the class and had a glass of wine and enjoyed talking to the staff and shopping. I'd highly recommend this if you're looking for something different to do in town.

Ordered this as a gift for our son who is currently an EMT and working his was through Paramedic school. He loves it and has received many compliments from others! The craftsmanship is top notch and the quality of leather is fantastic! I called once for an update and the person I spoke with was very friendly and helpful! Would recommend Axe and Awl for radio straps!

Just got my hand-made belt from Axe & Awl Leatherworks. Great craftsmanship and quality. This belt will look even better with time. Happy with my purchase!

Fantastic store with quality merchandise. Always a great place to go during the holidays!

I just received my custom made chin strap for my work new yorker. love the craftmanship and look forward to buying from them in near future!! I highly recommend Axe and Awl Leatherworks to all looking for solid well made items!!

The quality of their leather is top-notch. It is clear the A & A fam puts much love and excellence into their craft and their marketplace. We appreciate their attention to detail and tedious work ethic. We are big fans and would recommend them for all your leather needs!

Got a radio strap from them it came out amazing definitely worth it. Amazing job

Just a great place overall with the products and customer service . Could not ask for any better. I bought a pair of gloves and placed a order for a belt while there this time. I highly recommend this as a place to stop if in Waynesville . If you don’t need any leather items you need to check out the other products they have.

Good quality product. Disappointed, in the specifics of my order. I had conversations with employees that understood the specifics of my order when I called after placing my order. Advised me on what specific notes to put after our conversation. I wasn’t told to send an email to confirm everything we discussed. But now, I’m told after the fact that I should have sent an email. After speaking with Courtney I was told I wasn’t charged for a modification, but after reviewing my receipt I was. Overall, Poor communication. Poor customer service.

Have had a radio strap from them for a few years now it’s very durable and still in great shape! Recently ordered suspenders due to my mistake measuring they were way too big. Hassle free they corrected the size and they are perfect. 10/10 for products and customer service!

I bought one of the EDC cobra buckle belts. I would like to start off with the build quality and material of the belt are great. The belt showed up in a timely manner. But in short the belt does not fit. I followed the measurement instruction on the website to the letter. I even compared my measurement between two of my most worn belts. By when I got my belt from Axe and Awl to was to small, and there is no room to make it any larger. It has plenty of hole to make it smaller, but that is all. I feel I should have added a inch to my measurement to get the right fitment. I do know that the belt will stretch over time. But with the two different leathers in the belt, I know it will not stretch that much.

Pure awesome! Had a custom SCBA bag made for one of my AC’s. Far exceeded my expectations with outstanding quality and craftsmanship. I will use Axe and Awl again for my future customer leather needs. Thank you!!

After a few days of using my new radio strap from Axe and Awl Leatherworks, I am absolutely blown away by the quality. Everything regarding the stitching is super clean, tidy, and bomb-proof. The leather quality is top notch, hands down the best leather item I currently own. I researched for a while where to get a good radio strap that would last a lifetime but I also wanted to support a small business and I was able to accomplish both. If you're in the market for a radio strap that you only have to buy and wait for one time in your life - look no further, you will not be disappointed. PS: Get the modular pen loop attachment, that thing is fantastic. Fits pens, sharpies, and even my pen light after a little breaking in the leather. And also check out their YouTube channel, it was really cool to see how they make their radio straps and other leather goods.

My belt just came through the mail and it's awesome. Should be perfect for work. No more suspenders

Phenomenal radio strap. My wife bought me a strap 5 years ago from Axe and Awl and it still looks brand new. I work at a busy fire dept and this thing holds up like a champ. Highly recommended

Incredible company that creates the highest quality products! Whether you are first responder looking for radio straps, needing a leather belt, or a dop kit for traveling, they’ve got you covered!

There are not enough good things I can say about Axe and Awl! We have been in there multiple times when we are on vacation and the store is absolutely beautiful, the owners and staff are extremely friendly and you won’t find leather items made any better than this!! I attached pictures of two purses that I have from them. The more “orange” toned one is the first one I got when we were there. The second brown tone is one that my husband ordered for me and it just arrived. Super fast shipping and packed with care. We have bought multiple other items from them as well. You will not be disappointed!! We love to support this small business!

I just received my radio strap and looks great. Several people have asked where I got it from. Excellent craftsmanship, durable and will last forever. The paint job is awesome. You did everything I asked. I could not ask for anything better. Thanks Mark

Outstanding quality. I'm thrilled.

The chin strap for my leather helmet came in today. This Christmas gift will not only look good, but also serve as a tool when bunkering up for fires.

Ordered this as a gift for our son who is currently an EMT and working his was through Paramedic school. He loves it and has received many compliments from others! The craftsmanship is top notch and the quality of leather is fantastic! I called once for an update and the person I spoke with was very friendly and helpful! Would recommend Axe and Awl for radio straps!

The chin strap for my leather helmet came in today. This Christmas gift will not only look good, but also serve as a tool when bunkering up for fires.

I just received my custom made chin strap for my work new yorker. love the craftmanship and look forward to buying from them in near future!! I highly recommend Axe and Awl Leatherworks to all looking for solid well made items!!

Fantastic store with quality merchandise. Always a great place to go during the holidays!

Just got my hand-made belt from Axe & Awl Leatherworks. Great craftsmanship and quality. This belt will look even better with time. Happy with my purchase!

The quality of their leather is top-notch. It is clear the A & A fam puts much love and excellence into their craft and their marketplace. We appreciate their attention to detail and tedious work ethic. We are big fans and would recommend them for all your leather needs!

Got a radio strap from them it came out amazing definitely worth it. Amazing job

Just a great place overall with the products and customer service . Could not ask for any better. I bought a pair of gloves and placed a order for a belt while there this time. I highly recommend this as a place to stop if in Waynesville . If you don’t need any leather items you need to check out the other products they have.

Absolute 10/10 all the way around! Products are very high quality and extremely well made. Mr. Spencer and Mrs. Courtney were very helpfull and passionate and I absolutely love my goodies!

Have had a radio strap from them for a few years now it’s very durable and still in great shape! Recently ordered suspenders due to my mistake measuring they were way too big. Hassle free they corrected the size and they are perfect. 10/10 for products and customer service!

Pure awesome! Had a custom SCBA bag made for one of my AC’s. Far exceeded my expectations with outstanding quality and craftsmanship. I will use Axe and Awl again for my future customer leather needs. Thank you!!

After a few days of using my new radio strap from Axe and Awl Leatherworks, I am absolutely blown away by the quality. Everything regarding the stitching is super clean, tidy, and bomb-proof. The leather quality is top notch, hands down the best leather item I currently own. I researched for a while where to get a good radio strap that would last a lifetime but I also wanted to support a small business and I was able to accomplish both. If you're in the market for a radio strap that you only have to buy and wait for one time in your life - look no further, you will not be disappointed. PS: Get the modular pen loop attachment, that thing is fantastic. Fits pens, sharpies, and even my pen light after a little breaking in the leather. And also check out their YouTube channel, it was really cool to see how they make their radio straps and other leather goods.

Amazing owners with an incredible product. Make sure you stop by for a visit!

My belt just came through the mail and it's awesome. Should be perfect for work. No more suspenders

Phenomenal radio strap. My wife bought me a strap 5 years ago from Axe and Awl and it still looks brand new. I work at a busy fire dept and this thing holds up like a champ. Highly recommended

Incredible company that creates the highest quality products! Whether you are first responder looking for radio straps, needing a leather belt, or a dop kit for traveling, they’ve got you covered!

There are not enough good things I can say about Axe and Awl! We have been in there multiple times when we are on vacation and the store is absolutely beautiful, the owners and staff are extremely friendly and you won’t find leather items made any better than this!! I attached pictures of two purses that I have from them. The more “orange” toned one is the first one I got when we were there. The second brown tone is one that my husband ordered for me and it just arrived. Super fast shipping and packed with care. We have bought multiple other items from them as well. You will not be disappointed!! We love to support this small business!

I just received my radio strap and looks great. Several people have asked where I got it from. Excellent craftsmanship, durable and will last forever. The paint job is awesome. You did everything I asked. I could not ask for anything better.ThanksMark

Just received my first purchase (firefighter glove strap) from Axe & Awl and it's perfect. EXCELLENT materials and craftsmanship. Exactly what I was looking for. I will 100% be back to purchase more.

Outstanding quality. I'm thrilled.

They probably don’t need another 5 star review because everyone knows how great this store is, but I’m giving them one anyway!Hand crafted leather works made in house by the owners. Exceptional quality and design. Great products made by great people who make you feel welcome the second you walk in. A real asset to Waynesville and the surrounding areas.

We have bought several items, including my August bag at Axe and Awl Leatherworks, and have returned for the Tobacco and Leather candles and the best olives ever.All of their products are exceptional,and it is difficult to stay away! Looking forward to the addition of the Red Wing shoes which are comfortable, attractive and will complement their leather products.

I want to remain objective. I placed the order and was quoted 6 weeks lead time, without any contact from A&A, 6 weeks came and went. I reached out and was told it could now take 8-10 weeks from initial order due to the families “much needed” (albeit deserved) vacation halting continuity of business. With several attempts to maintain communication, any responses received were done so within 4-7 days and only after my reaching out. The radio strap arrived just under 12 weeks after ordering (double initial quote). Quality of leather and metals used appears top notch! For whatever reason the painted name on back portion of radio strap is already rubbing off within a week and a half of receiving it. I am already beginning to see the brown leather underneath American flag themed paint. The vertical lapel mic leather strip is very good looking as opposed to usual horizontal loop. However, the lapel strap sits near abdomen below chest instead of near upper chest or clavicle where it belongs. This can be an easy fix by punching my own two new holes where it belongs but the point is I shouldn’t have to. Poor placement on the vertical lapel strip. I will now have two random holes in strap when I adjust it up. Disclaimer, the strap is otherwise sized perfectly and the bucket sits exactly where it’s supposed to. They were unable to make due with image files sent for laser etching on bucket so they instead left the bucket blank without customization. The actual button for retaining the radio now sits dead center of bucket leaving no area for any customization moving forward. I also ordered a turnout belt with cobra buckle and the width is significantly smaller than I was expecting but is otherwise a perfect belt!

Being a first responder I was looking for a radio belt with good quality. I looked at customizing a belt on other sites and none of them had color thread examples like Axe & Awl which I loved! I was able to truly visualize what I wanted and I loved that they offered that. It gave me comfort for the price of customization which I believe sets them apart from every other leather store. Though with the price of customization I thought I’d start off by buying a plain leather radio strap to start and see how the product was. I got a plain black radio strap and am absolutely in LOVE with it. True to size, great quality, and not heavy. Definitely durable as well. Amazing product and company!!! Packaging was beautiful as well. I will be putting my plain black radio strap to use and definitely be customizing/personalizing a radio strap in the near future from here. If you’re on the fence with company’s about quality, price, and durability I would 20/10 recommend Axe & Awl.

I took my leather briefcase in to have the leather handle repaired / replaced. One end of the handle had torn from wear several yrs ago and I hadn’t been able to use it since. The briefcase was a gift from my wife so I’ve kept it without being able to use it, hoping to find someone to repair it. It turned out better than I could’ve hoped for and for a custom repair the cost was extremely reasonable. Highly recommend.

Bought a turnout gear belt from them. Just got it today and it is beautiful. Good craftsmanship and it doesn't feel or look cheap. Great product.

I spent a day in Waynesville Nc area ( fun place) Ran across Awe and Awl cool building wanted to see what it was about. Really nice shop. I ordered one of their belts, I got to decide on the color and the buckle. Just received it 2 days ago. Best belt I have ever had. Im 56 so I’ve bought a few belts. I don’t write very many reviews ( less than 10 in my life) but when you meet a family company like this one with amazing quality it does make me want to make sure others know to go ahead buy it. I love the look, fit and feel of it.

Beautiful showroom and great craftsmanship that shows through in every thing they make.

I purchased the Amazingly beautiful sleigh bells. They are a gift for along time friend so I am so proud to give them to her. Thank you so much for the quick response to my order. Can’t wait to see your shop in person next time Im in Waynesville. Might have to order some bells for myself. Will definitely be recommending you to my friends and family.

Love this place!

They probably don’t need another 5 star review because everyone knows how great this store is, but I’m giving them one anyway!
Hand crafted leather works made in house by the owners. Exceptional quality and design. Great products made by great people who make you feel welcome the second you walk in. A real asset to Waynesville and the surrounding areas.

We have bought several items, including my August bag at Axe and Awl Leatherworks, and have returned for the Tobacco and Leather candles and the best olives ever.
All of their products are exceptional,and it is difficult to stay away! Looking forward to the addition of the Red Wing shoes which are comfortable, attractive and will complement their leather products.

Being a first responder I was looking for a radio belt with good quality. I looked at customizing a belt on other sites and none of them had color thread examples like Axe & Awl which I loved!I was able to truly visualize what I wanted and I loved that they offered that. It gave me comfort for the price of customization which I believe sets them apart from every other leather store.Though with the price of customization I thought I’d start off by buying a plain leather radio strap to start and see how the product was.I got a plain black radio strap and am absolutely in LOVE with it. True to size, great quality, and not heavy. Definitely durable as well. Amazing product and company!!! Packaging was beautiful as well.I will be putting my plain black radio strap to use and definitely be customizing/personalizing a radio strap in the near future from here.If you’re on the fence with company’s about quality, price, and durability I would 20/10 recommend Axe & Awl.

I took my leather briefcase in to have the leather handle repaired / replaced. One end of the handle had torn from wear several yrs ago and I hadn’t been able to use it since. The briefcase was a gift from my wife so I’ve kept it without being able to use it, hoping to find someone to repair it.It turned out better than I could’ve hoped for and for a custom repair the cost was extremely reasonable.Highly recommend.

Bought a turnout gear belt from them. Just got it today and it is beautiful. Good craftsmanship and it doesn't feel or look cheap. Great product.

Being a first responder I was looking for a radio belt with good quality. I looked at customizing a belt on other sites and none of them had color thread examples like Axe & Awl which I loved!
I was able to truly visualize what I wanted and I loved that they offered that. It gave me comfort for the price of customization which I believe sets them apart from every other leather store.
Though with the price of customization I thought I’d start off by buying a plain leather radio strap to start and see how the product was.
I got a plain black radio strap and am absolutely in LOVE with it. True to size, great quality, and not heavy. Definitely durable as well. Amazing product and company!!! Packaging was beautiful as well.
I will be putting my plain black radio strap to use and definitely be customizing/personalizing a radio strap in the near future from here.
If you’re on the fence with company’s about quality, price, and durability I would 20/10 recommend Axe & Awl.

I spent a day in Waynesville Nc area ( fun place)Ran across Awe and Awl cool building wanted to see what it was about. Really nice shop. I ordered one of their belts, I got to decide on the color and the buckle. Just received it 2 days ago. Best belt I have ever had. Im 56 so I’ve bought a few belts. I don’t write very many reviews ( less than 10 in my life) but when you meet a family company like this one with amazing quality it does make me want to make sure others know to go ahead buy it. I love the look, fit and feel of it.

Beautiful showroom and great craftsmanship that shows through in every thing they make.

I purchased the Amazingly beautiful sleigh bells.They are a gift for along time friend so I am so proud to give them to her. Thank you so much for the quick response to my order. Can’t wait to see your shop in person next time Im in Waynesville. Might have to order some bells for myself. Will definitely be recommending you to my friends and family.

Love this place!

A few years ago I ordered a radio strap which has been put through a lot and still holds up very well. It was well worth the wait time for a custom one. Recently ordered a leather strap for my helmet and am loving it. Very happy they looked at the note that I left and asked them to send a joke with the package. It really made my day.

I stopped by this wonderful store and asked about their belts.. they had a great many to offer, but none exactly in my size.. they took my measurement and hand made and shipped it to me within 2 days!! This place is outstanding,,,, the workmanship and attention to detail are amazing. Spencer provided top notch customer service… Highly recommended!!!

Fantastic customer service from start to finish. I browsed the website to check out some similar designs before settling on the one that I wanted. Very friendly and helpful if you contact, which I did a few times! Very satisfied with my product and would highly recommend.

A few years ago I ordered a radio strap which has been put through a lot and still holds up very well. It was well worth the wait time for a custom one. Recently ordered a leather strap for my helmet and am loving it. Very happy they looked at the note that I left and asked them to send a joke with the package. It really made my day.

I stopped by this wonderful store and asked about their belts.. they had a great many to offer, but none exactly in my size.. they took my measurement and hand made and shipped it to me within 2 days!! This place is outstanding,,,, the workmanship and attention to detail are amazing. Spencer provided top notch customer service… Highly recommended!!!