The Best Camping Hatchets And Axes For The Money
Going camping in the woods soon? Make sure you get the best hatchet or axe for you trip. Why? You never know what you may come across in those woods and you may very well need one of these tools. Whether it is small shrubs and trees in a nice camping area or you need wood for making a fire, these cutting tools are always good to keep handy. But do you know what type of axe is best for you to use? Do you know how to choose an axe?
Well it’s a good thing you’re here. You will learn all about how you choose these tools and we will provide our top picks from the many products you can find for sale on the market today. Continue reading to get the best information about that axe or hatchet that you are about to buy.
In this article we will be reviewing the following axes and hatchets for camping and backpacking:
Top Hatchets and Axes
Things to consider
Axe vs. hatchet
A hatchet is a smaller version of the axe. While the axe is typically 22” and longer, the hatchet tends to be a foot long. Because the axe is longer, when you swing it to chop a piece of wood, it tends to exert more force. But an axe tends to be much heavier and takes up a lot more space.
Double bit vs Single bit
The single bit cuts faster but the double bit has more balance and is versatile. Because the double bit has a greater balance, it provides accurate cuts and greater efficiency.
Length of the handle
The longer the handle, the more force with which you can swing, but longer handles mean that the axe takes up more space.
Curvature of the handle
Choose a curved handle if your axe has a single bit. It should feel more natural.
The weight of the head
If this will be your first axe, it is wise to use one that is not heavy (less than 5 lbs). The heavier axes are recommended for persons with experience.
Product Reviews
Estwing Sportsman's Axe E24A
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Made from great materials
- Comes with a nylon sheath for protection
Cons
- It is a bit light so it may not deliver much force
CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk
Pros
- It includes a hammer head
- Made from good quality materials
Cons
- It does not come with a leather sheath
Husqvarna 13" Wooden Hatchet
Pros
- It has a good weight so you can exert a lot of force when chopping
- Curved handle
- Made of durable materials
Cons
- It may be a little heavy to carry around
Gransfors Bruk Wildlife Hatchet
Pros
- It comes with an axe book so you can learn about the axe
- It has a 20-year guarantee
- Easy to carry around
Cons
- There is no wedge on the top of the handle
Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe
Pros
- Premium quality
- Long handle
- Curved
- Light
- Comes with leather sheath
Cons
- Expensive
- May be too long for you
Husqvarna 26 Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe
Pros
- Comes with a leather edge
Cons
- May be too long for you
Fiskars X11 Splitting Axe
Pros
- Can be handled with one hand
Cons
- Not good for big tasks
Schrade SCAXE2 Survival Hatchet
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Comes with sheath
Cons
- Not good for big tasks