Axeing

How to make a viking axe from an old hatchet

chris — Tue, 10 May 2016 16:40:29 +0000

Did some garage cleaning and found an old hatchet I had for years just laying around collecting dust so I decided to do something fun with it. I’ve always wanted a “viking axe” so I knew that was something I wanted to do.

This is how the old the axe looked like when I found it. Don’t know the brand of this hatchet but I’m pretty sure its not a very fancy axe.

This is how it looks like when finished. I probably spent about 10 hours total working on it and this is my first custom axe built so I’m just a amateur which means anyone can do this with just some basic tools at their disposal.

Ok, so first I did some research online and looked at different viking axes and when I had enought of ideas on how I wanted it I did some sketches on a piece of paper until I was happy with my design. Then I just transfered it to the old axe and started to cut. Use a angle grinder to cut the steel, just make sure you cool the axe often in water so it dosen’t get to hot.

When all the cutting is done its time to smooth everything out. I used a sanding flap disc. Make sure to cool the axe head often when grinding as well as it gets hot really fast.

After a lot of cutting and grinding I wanted to make the axe head look nice and shiny. I first started with a scotch brite connected to a standard drill. When finished with the drill I used an air sander to get rid of any deeper scratches on the head.

Next step I did was sanding it by hand. I started with 80 grit and worked all the way down to 400.

When I was done with the sanding I realised that I needed to do some more cutting.

I wanted to do some etching as well on the axe as it looks really nice if you know how to do it (which I don’t). Anyway I used a 12v car charger and vinegar mixed with salt. I have no idea if thats the best method or not, I just found a guy doing it on youtube with nice result. And I put nail polish on the areas I didn’t want to etch.

It’s harder then it looks to get a nice pattern when you do it by hand with nail polish. Next axe I will use some kind of stencil instead. If you have any tips for my next axe please leave a comment.

After electric etching the axe head it was time to create a handle. I decided to use the old handle because that was all I had at my disposal. To make it look more like a viking axe I needed to make the handle a bit rounder. I marked out how I wanted it and then I used a jig saw to make the design I wanted. Then lots of sanding again. Same here, started with 80 grit all the way up to 400.

Also I wanted to make the axe handle darker so I used something called wood stain.

Last step is to attach the axe head to the handle.

Thats it. Now its time to sharpen the axe and see what its made of:) Hope you liked it and if you have any questions just leave a comment below.

Hultafors Classic Hunting Axe 850G Review

chris — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 13:28:36 +0000

Today I’m going to be going over a high-quality axe made from one of the oldest manufacturers in the world: the Hultafors Classic Hunting Axe. Specifically, I will be reviewing the 850g, 500mm axe. For those not familiar with the metric system, that’s roughly 2 pounds in weight and almost 20-inches in length.

This is an exceptional tool that maintains an elegant, traditional appearance while boasting some of the best steel available. This Swedish brand axe is hand-forged using time-honored techniques and stuck several times to truly reinforce its durability.

It is beautifully designed with a real hickory handle and rounded neck. This tool is both rugged and graceful, and will chop wood, skin game, or tear through doors with ease. The tempered zone on the blade offers superior sharpenability without heavily affecting the strength of the edge.

Key Specifications

Brand: Hultafors
Model: 850g Classic Hunting Axe
Handle Length: 20”
Head Material: Hand-forged Swedish steel, HRC 58 – 59
Handle Material: Hickory
Overall Weight: 2.0 lbs
Sheath: Soft leather with strap

Features

Hultafors was founded in Sweden in 1697 and has been producing high-quality tools ever since. This particular model, the Classic Hunting Axe, is available in a few sizes and styles so you can find the axe that best suits your particular needs. This larger model, the 850g, features the longest handle but it’s fairly light weight makes it an adequate size for carrying in a pack.

What’s really great about this tool is the strength of the steel. It is reliable as well as versatile and will stand up to its fair share of moderate to heavy-duty brushwork. The bulge under the neck helps to protect against splitting during overstrikes. Plus, the curved shape towards the end of the handle offers a comfortable area to grip the hatchet. Gloves are always recommended when doing axe work, but particularly with this tool since the handle has no added grip. A lanyard can be attached to the end to offer additional security when handling.

Now, these axes are not the cheapest available, but you are definitely getting your money’s worth when you purchase one! A soft leather edge protector is included with your purchase. It fastens with a simple strap function and features decorative studs around the edge. Some additional features include precision balanced head, protective coating on the blade, and flat end that can be used to hammer in nails or break down branches.

This delicate yet sturdy blade can be used in brushwork, kindling, some tactical operations, and can even be a great accompaniment when hunting or fishing. The blade itself comes sharp from the factory and boasts an HRC of 58 – 59, putting it up to par with some of the finest knives. If you consider yourself a rugged outdoorsman with a taste for tradition, this is definitely the axe for you.

Wrap-Up

Overall, I have no negative comments for this axe. It’s simple but it will still pack a punch. The hickory handle really gives it a refined appearance, and the Hultafors logo can be found tastefully printed on the side of the handle. The axe head is made from some of the finest hand-forged Swedish steel measured at HRC 58 – 59 and hammered to perfection. The company themselves acknowledges that this process is admittedly more time-consuming and expensive, but producing quality materials is of utmost importance to the Hultafors company.

When you purchase the Classic Hunting Axe, you can be sure you are buying a remarkable product. This company is one of the oldest in the world, so you can be confident they know what they’re doing. The 20-inch axe is perfect for hunters, outdoorsmen, campers, and woodworkers alike. I highly recommend it.

Gerber 17.5-Inch Freescape Hatchet Review

chris — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 11:55:06 +0000

Take a look at the Gerber Freescape Hatchet. Created by the American-based company Gerber, this rugged tool is versatile and durable. Its forged steel head has a friction-resistant coating to offer smooth chopping power. The axe head is over-molded into the handle to reduce the possibility of splitting or breaking.

A textured grip on the handle keeps the axe from slipping when in use and the reinforced glass-filled handle offers comfort and reliability. The sheath is one of Gerber’s unique designs: a slipcover that wraps around the back of the hatchet and can be stored directly into the handle when not in use. It comes in fluorescent green to match the accenting on the handle.

The striking contrast of black against green offers users maximum visibility plus the added bonus of a sleek, tactical appearance. This excellent hatchet delivers a simplistic yet durable design, making it an ideal choice for camping or backpacking trips.

Key Specification

Brand: Gerber
Model: Freescape Hatchet
Overall Length: 17.5”
Blade Length: 3.1”
Head Material: Drop Forged Steel
Handle Material: Glass-Filled Nylon
Overall Weight: 32.6 oz.
Sheath: Plastic Slipcover or Kydex Sheath

Features

The first thing you notice about this hatchet is the color. It is a shocking bright green, which makes it easy to spot and offers a colorful, modern twist to the traditional hatchet. The axe head is made from forged steel rated at HRC 55. It is coated in a low-friction black coating, which gives it a lustrous finish as well as a functional advantage. The black glass filled handle is finished with a textured green grip that offers a lanyard hole at the end.

The Gerber logo can be found elegantly embossed on the side of the handle. Another great feature is the blunt back end, which is effective in hammering stakes or nails. Despite being an American company, this particular hatchet is made in Finland. The Gerber website boasts the introduction of the innovative quick-remove matching green sheath that offers a firm plastic slip-on cover with a durable elastic strap that secure around the back of the axe head. I have to say, I am not a fan of this sheath. While it does offer a convenient quick release option, it also seems like it could come loose if it snags on something.

There is also limited carry options with this cover. Gerber used to offer another more functional Kydex sheath as well though it is not clear if it is still included with your purchase. However, at a little over two pounds, it can be conveniently situated in a backpack. This is a great camping hatchet for the simplistic outdoorsman. It won’t do much in the way of heavy-duty tasks, but it will certainly tackle your basic campsite duties with ease. Kindling, chopping branches, building shelter, and chopping up firework can be both fun and simple with the Gerber Freescape Hatchet.

Wrap-Up

Are you looking for a simple tool that will help you conquer all your camping needs effortlessly? Then the Gerber Freescape Hatchet is just what you need. It has everything you need for your basic camping trip: a sharp, resilient axe head, a sturdy, comfortable handle, and a blunt end for breaking down branches or hammering in tent stakes. Plus, it offers you all this in a stylish package.

As I mentioned above, I am not a big fan of the sheath, as I think it offers very minimum blade protection and absolutely nothing in the way of carrying options. The Kydex sheath may be useful for attaching to a pack, or hanging on a wall, but it may be too clunky to attach to a belt. At a little over two pounds this axe is not particularly heavy, and thus, can easily be carried in a bag when trekking around the woods.

The steel itself is a bit soft but still it’s of decent quality, weighing in at 55HRC and boasting a friction-resistant coating. This makes for solid, sturdy chops and cuts. I recommend the Gerber 17.5-inch hatchet to the novice outdoorsman, or to those who like to keep their pack light and simple.

Morakniv Boron Steel Camping Axe Review

chris — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 04:50:53 +0000

Here’s a camping axe that is both stylish and functional: the Mora Outdoor Axe. This sturdy camping axe is made by MoraKniv of Sweden and is created from Boron steel coated in an attractive black epoxy finish and affixed to a reinforced polymer handle. It is available in both military green and florescent orange and ranges from the $40 – $60 range, making it both stylish and affordable.

Additionally, it is practical and its lightweight design makes it ideal for carrying in a pack when on camping trips. This is the perfect tool for the avid outdoorsman. The simplistic design offers reliable functionality in modern, sleek design. Plus, a gorgeous leather sheath is included for protection. Morakniv includes a one-year warranty with this axe, so you can have some buyer security when making your purchase.

Key Specifications

Brand: MoraKniv
Model: Boron Steel Camping Axe
Overall Length: 12.6”
Blade Length: 4.5”
Black Thickness: 0.24”
Steel Material: Boron
Handle Material: Reinforced plastic
Overall Weight: 17.6 oz.
Sheath: Genuine Leather Slipcover

Features

The Mora Camp Axe is the perfect tool to handle kindling and simple brushwork when out in the woods. It is a relatively small axe, making it easy to carry and use. The ergonomic handle is slightly textured and fits comfortably in your hand. The strategically shaped wide bottom prevents it from flying out of your hand during use.

In addition, the hole near the bottom of the handle lets you secure a lanyard to the end, which can be used to attach to your belt or pack, or fix around your wrist for added security. A great feature on this axe is the axe head. For starters, the steel is made from Boron, a specialized steel used mostly in cars because of its durability. Additionally, the axe head extends about two inches into the handle itself to further reinforce its sturdiness. The thickness of the blade is admittedly somewhat thin, but for minor brushwork and firewood, it will do the job.

Again, this is a small tool. It is not intended for hardcore, heavy-duty tactical jobs. However, it is simple, light, and is ideal for those monthly camping trips. The black epoxy finish gives it a sleek, lustrous finish. This axe is not for those looking for a multi-purpose tool or a tactical weapon. It is a straightforward design, with no bells or whistles.

The flat end of the axe head can be used to hammer in stakes or nails, which can aid in building tents and shelters. This can be the perfect axe if you are looking for a tool to include on your camping excursions that can help to generate firewood, chop down branches, and hammer in stakes.

Wrap Up

I recommend the Mora of Sweden Boron steel axe to moderate camping enthusiasts who don’t have the use for an overly complicated tool. This is a small axe with a functional, sturdy design, but don’t let its size fool you! The blade makes clean, direct cuts and its comfortable, reinforced handle will absorb most of the shock. Gloves should always be worn, as they can prevent any injury from occurring and give you added grip when handling your tools.

As I mentioned above, it is available in both bright orange and a hunter green, which are two great colors that serve more than just aesthetic purposes. The genuine leather sheath gives you a beautiful cover that protects both you and the blade. All in all, this is a great axe to bring on any camping trip. While it doesn’t offer any belt-carrying options, you can always fasten it to your pants using a lanyard, or just toss it into your pack.

Either way, it is lightweight enough that it won’t be a bother. I don’t recommend you try to tackle huge logs or trees with this tool, but it is perfect for branches and small to medium sized logs.

Schrade SCAXE2L Survival Hatchet Review

chris — Fri, 18 Dec 2015 05:24:20 +0000

Are you looking for a survival axe that is both sleek and practical? Then the SCAXE2L Survival Hatchet by Schrade might be it. This hatchet is a lightweight, durable, versatile tool that will come useful with both outdoor survival tasks and everyday chores. It features a hardened blade that is coated with a corrosion resistant titanium finish, an ergonomic handle with comfortable TPR rubber grip, along with a heavy-duty pommel on the back of the head.

It weighs just under two pounds and includes a sheath that keeps both the user and blade safe while giving you a convenient method of carry. Additionally, a limited lifetime warranty, an extra long Ferro rod and a sharpening stone are included with your purchase. This excellent tool is designed to be used in extreme conditions, and can stand up to tough jobs. Ideal for avid campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and even for on the job!

Key Specifications

Brand: Schrade
Model: SCAXE2L
Overall Length: 15.7”
Blade Length: 4.5”
Steel Material: Titanium Coated 3Cr13 Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Black Glass Fiber Filled PA w/ Black TPR Rubber Grip
Overall Weight: 1.75 lbs
Sheath: Black Nylon with Velcro closure

Features

The Schrade SCAXE2L is a great addition to a camping pack or toolkit, as it offers a ton of excellent features as well as reliability. Created by the world-renowned weapons and tool producers Taylor Brands LLC, this hatchet does not compromise quality for style. It comes fully loaded with a 4″ stainless steel blade finished with a titanium 3Cr13, an ergonomic glass reinforced nylon handle with TPR rubber grip, and a hardened pommel on the back.

Along with that, Schrade throws in a Velcro closure nylon handle with a belt loop, a flint rod that secures snugly into the handle, and a double-sided sharpening stone. The axe itself has great chopping power, and the hammerhead on the back is perfect for driving in nails, tent stakes, breaking down a glass, or even hacking away dead branches. Now, the steel might roll or chip when tackling tougher woods but Schrade makes up for this by including a sharpening stone.

It’s an easy fix, but it can be frustrating if you don’t have the tools readily available. The fire steel that is included is useful, functional, and truly an excellent feature. The rubber tip ensures that it stays safely embedded in the handle when not in use, and has a helpful string that hangs out of the handle for easy removal. The nylon sheath gives you the option to carry it on your belt, though, at roughly 2 pounds, it can be a little much to carry on long trips. If you wish to take it on a long excursion, it is recommended that you carry it in a pack.

Another really beneficial feature is the ergonomic handle. The rubber grip is not only comfortable but also features finger grooves to give you a relaxed but secure grip. Plus, the curved shape fits nicely in your grasp and also makes sure the hatchet doesn’t fly out of your hand when using.

Wrap-Up

Schrade has made a great tool here. The SCAXE2L will come in handy for brushwork, tent building, constructing shelter, clearing out dead trees, and more! The thick titanium layered head combined with the rust-resistant 3Cr13 coating really gives the steel a durable finish. Along with the included fire steel and sharpening stone, you’ve got a great tool for less than $50! It’s definitely worth the purchase.

Just keep in mind you will be using that sharpening stone plenty to keep it in tip-top shape. Despite that, the tool stands up to tough weather conditions, and the handle design is not only aesthetically appealing, but also functional and gives you a really sturdy grip when using. All in all, I definitely recommend this tool. It’s affordable, it’s durable, it’s practical, and it’s powerful.

Plus it’s backed by the a limited lifetime warranty by Schrade along with the insurmountable reputation of Taylor Brands, which has been producing top-of-the-line weapons, gear, and survival tools since 1975. The axe is a bit on the heavy side if you need something to take with you while hiking, hunting, or on long treks, but it’s perfect for car camping or for using in the backyard and around the house.

Fiskars X7 14-inch Hatchet Review

chris — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 07:44:50 +0000

The Fiskars X7 Hatchet, part of the X-Series and to avoid any confusion, the X7 is the newer model of the 14-inch Fiskars tool. This incredible tool combines top-of-the-line materials with expert construction and ingenuity to bring you a nearly unbreakable, ultra-sharp hatchet with 3 times more biting power than your traditional hatchet.

Complete with a FiberComp® shock-absorbent handle, friction minimizing blade coating, and insert-molded head, this tool will go through three times the wood twice as fast! Designed in Billnäs, Finland, Fiskars is a leading supplier of effective, practical tools that have been around for over three centuries. Plus, with the lifetime-limited warranty, you can truly depend on this product.

Key Specifications

Brand: Fiskars
Model: X7
Overall Length: 14”
Edge Length: 2.5”
Steel Material: Forged Carbon Steel, HRC 50 – 56
Handle Material: FiberComp®
Overall Weight: 1.25 lbs.

Features

Since 1649, the experts at Finnish owned and operated Fiskars have been creating quality products designed to make the lives of everyday individuals like you and me easier. The X7 14-inch hatchet was designed with precision power-to-weight swing speed and, despite its light handle, it is perfectly balanced and delivers an intense chop with each swing.

Some of the exceptional features include the hardened forged steel which, after some research, I discovered the steel is HRC 50 – 56. The strategically cut geometric head features a unique over mold design to help ensure the head will never detach from the handle. Additionally, the head is coated with a low-friction finish to help it drive through wood without getting stuck.

This tool is perfect for hikers, campers, and every day outdoor enthusiasts. It is ideal for chopping brushwork and logs that are small to medium in size. The non-slip grip gives the already stronger-than-steel shock-resistant FiberComp® handle added assurance and comfort so you can feel confident when handling this tool. Plus, a limited lifetime warranty and a hardcover sheath with locking mechanism and handle are included with your purchase.

For the price of this hatchet, I highly recommend it. It can absolutely stand the test of time, and will chop through kindling and split wood with ease. Aesthetically, the tool is attractive and intimidating. The brand name is beautifully embellished on the side of the handle, and the orange grip towards the bottom gives it an industrial look with a pop of color.

A hole is located towards the end of the handle, giving you a space to tie a lanyard to wrap around your hand when using or to strap to your belt with. Don’t let its weight fool you! This lightweight tool is a force to be reckoned with.

Wrap-Up

This is a great tool. I’m having trouble finding anything wrong with it. It’s cheap, it’s lightweight, it’s heavy-duty, and it is virtually indestructible. A simple Google search will find videos of trucks running over the handles to demonstrate its durability. Backed by Fiskars lifetime warranty along with its history of more than three centuries of quality forged tools, the X7 is absolutely worth it!

Its biting power will make chopping kindling and firewood an easy task, and the head is designed to give you a clean, one-strike split with small to medium sized wood. The tool is perfectly balanced and is forged from hardened steel. The handle is shock-absorbent, slip-resistant, and the head is externally forged to the FiberComp® handle.

The textured grip gives you incredible handling and helps reduce straining in your hands. In addition to these built in features, the sheath that is included makes carrying easy and helps protect not only the user but the blade as well. It locks to keep the blade from accidentally slipping out though this does prevent a quick deploy. Overall, I definitely recommend this hatchet.

Zippo 4-in-1 Woodsman Axe Review

chris — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 03:49:18 +0000

This is a review of the Zippo® Outdoor 4-in-1 Woodsman™. A familiar name to many, Zippo is well known for their ingenuity and reliability. They have created a product ideal for the avid camper or outdoorsman that gives you 4 convenient tools in one handy axe.

The Woodsman features a razor sharp blade, a sturdy handsaw, a mallet intended for driving tent stakes, and a nifty tool to easily remove those stakes. Now you won’t need to carry multiple tools when heading out into the woods to tackle some firewood or when packing for a camping excursion with the family. You’ll save space and money with this ingenious tool.

Key Specifications

Brand: Zippo Outdoor
Model: 4-in-1 Woodsman
Model Number: 44032-Z
Axe Head: 5 in.
Saw Blade: 15 in.
Handle Length: 20 in.
Overall Length: 23 in.
Handle Material: Thermal Molded Rubber
Overall Weight: 3.0 lbs

Features

While Zippo is most known for their signature wind-proof lighter, they design useful survival tools for everyday folks. The 4-in-1 Woodsman™ is a creative tool that relies on the secure hard safety sheath to convert it into a bow saw, mallet, or a stake remover. When the safety sheath is removed, you have access to a 5″ axe head that comes with a finely honed edge straight from the factory.

The features include a full tang stainless steel blade affixed to a polymer handle that has a storage compartment for the two included saw blades. The saw blades attach through a hole on either side that is fitted into the sheath at the top and into a tension compensator at the bottom. The transformation process from the axe to the saw is admittedly tedious, but given that it saves you the trouble of carrying a saw, it is worth it.

Plus it boasts the ability to saw through wood 4 inches in diameter! As far as the mallet and stake remover, Zippo is clear that they should not be used on more than tent stakes, as I imagine the plastic handle is susceptible to breaking when under too much pressure. However, when used properly, it can make building and taking down your tent a breeze.

This tool is not particularly recommended for those hardcore campers who require multiple hardened tools to tackle difficult tasks. But for those family campers who enjoy sawing their own wood from the trees nearby and chopping them into firewood, this tool is for you. Be sure to read the included instructions before use. They will save you the time and energy of having to figure out how to use the additional features on your own.

Wrap-Up

Overall, this is a pretty great tool. It can break when overexerted so be sure you only use it as directed. Despite that, it truly is an inventive and handy tool. If it was just an axe I would say it was a little large to be a tool included in your work pack, but given it also doubles as a mallet, a stake puller, and a saw, it is a perfect size. Remember, it is doing the job of 4 tools, so it needs to be able to accommodate that.

Now, if you think that the stake driver and puller are a bit silly and you don’t see yourself using them, this tool may not be for you. For the price, you could find a tool that suits your exact needs. However, if you are a camper or an outdoor enthusiast that regularly finds themselves camping, hunting, chopping wood, sawing down trees or things of that nature, this tool will be perfect! It does require a bit of assembly to convert into a saw, but everything you need to do so is right there in the tool.

I recommend this to those who have jobs that require multiple tools, as it really saves space and energy when traveling to a job site.

Estwing E24A Sportsman’s Hatchet Review

chris — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 13:34:26 +0000

We tend to look at a whole bunch of factors when deciding to write a review here at axeing.org and the Estwing Sportsman’s Hatchet, model number E24A is deffinetly worth taking a closer look at.

This is really a beautiful tool. This American made full-tang steel hatchet is finished with a stacked leather handle and a thick lacquer polish, giving you an attractive, useful, and comfortable tool. A perfect camping hatchet, this lightweight piece is well balanced and will effortlessly split small logs for firewood or chop through bushes or branches.

These Estwing hatchets are a true classic, having been in circulation since the 1920’s with only minor adjustments and can surely last you many years with proper care. While Estwing no longer offers the hatchet with its original engraved leather sheath, you can still find it if purchased via outside alternatives.

If you are looking for an instrument that can stand up to all your backpacking, hiking, camping, or bushcraft needs, I’d say look no further! The Estwing Sportsman’s Hatchet is effective, affordable, and durable.

Key Specifications

Brand: Estwing
Model: Sportsman’s Hatchet with Metal Handle
Model Number: E24A
Overall Length: 14”
Cutting Edge: 3.25”
Steel Material: Forged Tool Steel
Grip Material: Genuine Stacked Leather
Overall Weight: 24 oz.
Sheath: Original: Leather with Snap Closure / Replacement: Black Nylon

Features

The E24A Sportsman’s Hatchet by Estwing boasts great features, including it’s full tang steel and attractive leather grip. The type of steel is not disclosed, but Estwing describes it as “tool steel”. It is made in the USA and the grip is comprised of stacked genuine leather ringlets, which are sanded and then finished with a lustrous polish for maximum comfortability.

The ergonomic handle is specially designed with a wider end at the bottom of the handle to prevent slippage when using. Because this is a full-tang piece of metal, it can offer a slightly thinner cutting edge that widens out to a blunt end, making it ideal for splitting. The edge itself comes fairly sharp from the factory, but depending on your particular needs, it could use a sharpening.

A leather crafted sheath featuring an engraved image of oak leaves and acorns is was included with the original purchases and can still be found via Amazon and similar marketplaces, however, it seems it is no longer offered directly through Estwing. Instead, they offer a snug black nylon sheath that is not nearly as attractive, but may prove more effective for carry and durability.

The original sheath slid over the handle and then snapped around the blade, which is useful for hammering without removing the sheath, but incredibly annoying if you favor easy release and carry options. In regards to performance, this hatchet is excellent for basic camping, home improvement projects, bush work, and similar outdoor work. Because of its affordable price, this is perfect for someone on a budget, or as an entry-level hatchet for the aspiring outdoorsman.

Keep in mind, there are a few cons to this hatchet like it’s limited shock absorbency, which can prove to be damaging if used frequently, and its original sheath. If you only plan to use this hatchet for the occasional camping trip, repair project, or seasonal wood splitting, I highly recommend it.

Wrap Up
Overall, this tool is great. It’s well balanced, it’s handsome, it’s durable, it’s effective, and it’s lightweight and easy to handle. Woodcrafters and those who wish to do detailed woodwork should avoid this one, but if you are looking for an axe to include in your survival pack, this is it. It will split and chop small chunks of wood effortlessly, perfect for firewood.

The blunt, hammerhead end will help drive stakes or wood spikes into the ground with ease. Estwing has been making this hatchet almost since their inception with very little changes to it over time, which certainly attests to its dependability and resilience. The Estwing Sportsman’s Hatchet is 14 inches of full-tang steel wrapped with a comfortable, stacked leather grip and it’s available at popular retailers for an affordable price.

Also remember that, it is not a wooden handle and thus does not have the same shock absorbency as a wooden handle would, but again if you use this sparingly, you will not experience any lasting damage. Definitely a must-have for the avid camper and outdoorsman!

Gransfors Bruks Outdoor Axe Review

chris — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 09:02:30 +0000

The Gransfors Bruks Outdoor Axe is a extremly well built survival axe. Designed with the help of Lars Fält, well-known survival and outdoor expert, this axe is hefty, sturdy, and can bring down a tree with the right amount of force. Unique and handmade with pride and expertise, this stunning axe is carefully forged by an experienced smith and then stamped with their initials on the head.

It is a compact, light tool but don’t let its size fool you! With the Outdoor Axe’s long handle and heavy head, it is powerful enough to fell a tree. The versatile tool can be used in a variety of ways, such as for chopping branches, chopping and splitting firewood, or even as a large knife for slicing game or food.

Key Specifications

Brand: Gransfors Bruks
Model: Outdoor Axe
Overall Length: 14.5”
Steel Material: Unknown
Handle Material: Hickory
Overall Weight: 1.2 lbs
Sheath: Leather

Features

Lars Fält, the Swede who helped develop the Gransfors Bruks Outdoor Axe, has written 10 books on survival and outdoor pursuits, as well as having trained the Swedish Army Ranger Battalion for 35 years. You can instantly tell the level of quality that goes into making these axes. They are not only beautiful but also surprisingly powerful for such a light tool.

The handsome Hickory handle is secured to the steel head with a steel collar, specifically designed to weather any impact. It’s impeccable steel is stamped with the forger’s initials alongside the brand’s logo on the head. The single strap and snap leather sheath that is included with the axe is attractive and also does a fair job securing to the axe.

It also doubles as a belt strap so that you can carry it hands-free on your belt. Now, as far as the axe’s capabilities, when I say it can fell a tree, I am not exaggerating, though it should be a relatively small tree. As expected, this small tool can only tackle mild to moderately sized projects, but because of its extended handle and lightweight size, it can be swung quickly and forcefully enough to chop and split wood as necessary.

It can be used for less traditional jobs too, such as gutting hunting game or fish, chopping fruits or vegetables, or for any task you would use a large knife for. The head comes razor sharp, as each blade is honed to a fine 25° bevel after forging, so be careful when handling.

Wrap Up

The light, versatile design on this axe really makes it a great addition to any workman’s tool or shed. It won’t replace any larger, hefty tree-splitting axes you may already own, but it is perfect as a compact, carry-on axe for small projects. It is ideal, for example, as an axe you could carry on your belt while you travel through the woods or forest.

The head is not the best you could find for splitting though it could get the job done with enough determination. This tool is best suited to bush crafters and hikers who don’t want to overburden their kit but still want a reliable tool, as this flexible and versatile axe can tackle almost any job you have for it. It’s a truly handsome piece, with fine craftsmanship and a comfortable feel. A hole can be located at the end of the grip so you can attach a lanyard for added security when handling.

It is worth mentioning that this axe is slightly costly for the size and caliber, however, keep in mind you are paying for the craftsmanship as well. The steel ferrule underneath the head keeps the handle from suffering any damage during striking, and the head itself is finely honed. Definitely a tool worth purchasing if you have the funds, as it will be a beneficial addition to your toolkit without overweighing it.

SOG F16N-CP BadAxe Base Camp Axe Review

chris — Sat, 05 Dec 2015 04:36:25 +0000

Now here’s an axe that really sticks out from the others. The SOG Base Camp Axe of the BadAxe Series is raw forged from 1055 carbon steel with a thermal molded rubber handle and a hardness rating of RC 50 – 55.

This straight blade axe is sharp, sturdy, and easy to handle so it’s perfect for outdoor activities like camping or as a secondary tool when hunting or fishing, and it’s also on our list of the best survival axes.

The steel itself has shock resistant capabilities and coupled with the rubber handle surely makes this axe a well-built tool. SOG includes its limited lifetime warranty with the purchase of this product, as well as a molded nylon sheath with a belt loop for carry.

Key Specifications

Brand: SOG Specialty Knives & Tools
Model: BadAxe Base Camp Axe
Model Number: F16N-CP
Overall Length: 16”
Blade Length: 3.4”
Steel Material: 1055C, HRC 50 – 55
Handle Material: Thermal Molded Rubber
Overall Weight: 33 oz.
Sheath: Molded Nylon with Snap Closure

Features

I have to say, I’m oddly attracted to this axe. It boasts an ergonomic handle, a blunt end for hammering, and a flexible yet sharp edge while maintaining a reasonable size and weight for a carry-on axe. Not to mention the full-tang steel and the comfortable ribbed rubber handle, which gives you powerful strength and durability.

This axe is ideal for chopping smaller sized pieces of wood and hammering nails or tent poles, as well as other outdoor tasks or activities. I wouldn’t recommend it for splitting big logs or chopping large, thick pieces of wood as the head thins out and doesn’t give you the driving force you need to successfully split wood. It’s a great piece for short camping trips or as a secondary weapon to keep on your waist; my only complaint is the way the blade thins.

Aesthetically, it is an incredibly attractive piece; forged from one solid piece of 1055 HRC 50 – 55 carbon steel affixed with the SOG logo on both the steel and printed all over the rubber grip handle and accented with an orange trim. The nylon sheath that it comes with is very well made, and gives you a sleek and safe way to attach the axe to your belt and it offers a back latch for easy removal. In general, it is a hefty, effective axe and as long as you don’t put it through overly extensive tasks, it will not disappoint.

Wrap Up

If you are a camping enthusiast or just an overall outdoorsmen type, I would certainly recommend this axe. It is perfect to take on short excursions and will effectively chop down branches and foliage, hammer in nails, break down a glass or similar material, and protect you in an emergency. It’s not too heavy and has a flexible, full-tang head meant to absorb shock.

The curved shape and rubber tread on the handle gives you and smooth, sturdy grip that won’t slip in any weather condition. The nylon sheath included by SOG offers a belt loop for easy carry and is snug and secure so you can feel confident when traveling or storing the axe. It’s a nice looking piece of steel, forged from 1055C HRC 50 – 55 and molded to the SOG-imprinted thermal rubber handle.

The head is a little weaker than you would expect, given its full-tang design, but the pommel side makes up for that with its dulled, durable end. As a carry-on axe, it will surely find a place in your toolset as a camping tool. The SOG BadAxe F16N-CP Base Camp Axe definitely lives up to its title of “Bad Axe”. Plus, with its lifetime warranty, you can feel secure that in the unlikely event something occurs, you can contact SOG for a possible exchange or repair.