When did Woodcutter Smurf become known as Axe Smurf? Trying to find the origins of a Smurf can be a challenge but also a lot of fun. Especially when you look back at old catalogues and what names we gave particular Smurfs. Same Smurf but different names depending where you lived in the world. Woodcutter Smurf is a perfect example or should that be Axe Smurf #20087?

Bully and Schleich versions

In 1975 Bully released six new Smurfs. One of these was Holzhacker which in German roughly translates to Lumberjack in English. However I have never seen this Smurf referred to as Lumberjack. The first variant is quite different to the other variations. For example, the axe blade is thick and is not as sharp. The pvc material is also softer compared to the other variants. It also has the Bully © Peyo hand etched markings.

After this, Bully changed the mould and markings on Axe Smurf. For instance the axe blade was sharper and the Smurf appears to be slightly taller. Adding a © Peyo marking to the back of the Axe blade and printed markings under its feet.

Schleich also sold Axe Smurf, from 1980 to 1986. Only two of these years with their own Schleich markings. Like other Smurfs Schleich would just block out the Bully marking and replace it with their own. Unless you really examine your Smurfs for differences I cannot see any between the Bully and Schleich marked ones.

Wallace Berrie and Schleich

BP also sold Axe Smurf in New Zealand, calling this Woodcutter. This version is made out of hard pvc material and is painted with darker colours, most notebly the red axe handle. From my understanding this was sold around 1981 because of it’s markings – Made in Hong Kong Schleich S © 1976 Peyo markings.

Also in 1981 Wallace Berrie sold Axe Smurf, with and without their own markings. It was in their 1982 Smurf Collectables Booklet that I have found the first reference to this Smurf as Axe Smurf. Though Schleich continued to call this Hozhacker in Germany and Woodcutter in English speaking countries in their 1986 catalogue. This was the last time we saw Axe Smurf in any Schleich catalogues.

Jubilee Smurf

However Axe Smurf is possibly best known for being part of the Jubilee Smurfs released in 1985. Axe Smurf was representing the year 1975. Each Jubilee Smurf was sold in a special blister display cardboard package that also included four stamps. Along with this each figurine was stamped on the back of their head with the year of issue and a gold leaf design. Highly collectible and highly sought after by collectors.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my blog but if you feel something is not quite right let me know.

Keep on Smurfin
Kath B