diff --git a/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets/fireaxe.dm b/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets/fireaxe.dm
index 4eda067ca51..d8a2cb5b04b 100644
--- a/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets/fireaxe.dm
+++ b/code/game/objects/structures/crates_lockers/closets/fireaxe.dm
@@ -2,7 +2,7 @@
 /obj/structure/closet/fireaxecabinet
 	name = "fire axe cabinet"
 	desc = "There is small label that reads \"For Emergency use only\" along with details for safe use of the axe. As if."
-	var/obj/item/twohanded/fireaxe/fireaxe = new/obj/item/twohanded/fireaxe
+	var/obj/item/twohanded/fireaxe/fireaxe
 	icon_state = "fireaxe1000"
 	icon_closed = "fireaxe1000"
 	icon_opened = "fireaxe1100"
@@ -15,6 +15,10 @@
 	locked = TRUE
 	var/smashed = FALSE
 
+/obj/structure/closet/fireaxecabinet/populate_contents()
+	fireaxe = new/obj/item/twohanded/fireaxe(src)
+	update_icon()	// So its initial icon doesn't show it without the fireaxe
+
 /obj/structure/closet/fireaxecabinet/examine(mob/user)
 	. = ..()
 	. += "<span class='notice'>Use a multitool to lock/unlock it.</span>"