Camping axes and hatchets are essential tools for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. These versatile tools can be used for various tasks, such as chopping wood, pitching tents, and even self-defense. In addition, camping axes and hatchets are inexpensive and easy to use, making them an excellent choice for beginner campers. However, exercising caution when using these tools is essential, as they can be dangerous in the wrong hands. With a bit of practice and common sense, though, camping axes and hatchets can help make any camping trip more enjoyable.
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We’ve shortlisted the best camping axes and hatchets based on our comprehensive research and our own experience. We’ve looked at the different performance parameters and chosen the ones that offer the best value for money. Additionally, we created a table to compare the axes side by side based on performance parameters such as price, weight, handle length and material.
Quick Recommendations
- Best Overall Camping Axe: Fiskars X11 Axe
- Best Budget Friendly Option: WilFiks Chopping Hatchet
- Best Quality Option: Estwing E44A-1 Camper’s Axe
- Tomahawk Axe: CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe
- Best For backpacking: Fiskars Axe XXS
- Best Survival Hatchet: SOG Survival Hawk
- Best Of The Rest: Estwing Fireside Friend Axe, Husqvarna 13″ Wooden Hatchet, Gransfors Bruks Forest Axe
Best Overall Camping Axe
1.Fiskars X11 Axe
The Fiskars X11 Axe is our top pick for the best camping axe. It is made of high-quality materials and is designed for optimal performance. The weight of the axe is 2.18 pounds, making it easy to carry and use with one hand. The grip is non-slip and reduces hand strain, and the sheath helps to protect you from getting injured. The blade is also razor-sharp, making it easy to split even the most stubborn logs. It’s very well-made, and it’s clear that a lot of thought went into its design. It’s also very sharp and performs brilliantly. We’ve used it on several camping trips, and it’s held up very well to all the wear and tear. It’s also very compact and portable, making it easy to take with you on your adventures.
The Fiskars Portable Splitting Axe handle is a great design. It is lightweight and grippy. We used it on our many camping trips. The handle does not move into the hands to cause any blisters or skin irritation, even during more prolonged use. It provides excellent balance while working with it. This does not get stuck into wood either. It worked well for both dry and wet kinds of wood. You don’t need to hit many times either to cut the wood.
We were delighted with the quality of this axe. It is well made and very sturdy. The blade is sharp, and the handle is comfortable to hold. We used it to split small to medium logs, which worked great. We don’t think it would be good for larger logs, but it’s perfect for kindling and smaller pieces of wood. The carrying case is also a nice bonus. It was not expensive, so it’s a great value.
Pros
- Easy to carry
- Blade sheath
- Lifetime warranty
- Easier to use for smaller jobs
- Handle designed for better grip and less hand fatigue
- Sharp blade that makes splitting logs quick and easy
- Comes with a protective cover
- Perfect size for taking on camping trips
- The axe is well balanced
- Easy to use and perfect for kindling
Cons
- The head of this axe is a little bit small
Best For Car Camping
2. Kershaw Deschutes Bearded Hatchet
The Kershaw Deschutes Bearded Hatchet is the perfect tool for those who need a versatile and powerful axe that is still easy to carry. The hatchet is compact and only weighs one pound, making it easy to take with you on hikes or camping trips. The bearded head is excellent for chopping through branches or kindling, and the curved blade can be used for carving or other precision work. The handle is comfortable to hold and designed to provide a good grip, even when your hands are wet. This is an excellent choice for light to medium splitting tasks. At 14 inches long, it’s portable and lightweight, making it ideal for hiking, camping, or backpacking. The hatchet comes with its carrying case and is sharp right out of the box. We found that it worked well for splitting small logs and was easy to control, thanks to its comfortable grip.
Furthermore, this hatchet is made with a high-carbon steel head designed to stay sharp longer and efficiently sharpened. The blade has a complete tang construction for strength and durability. The weight of the hatchet is evenly distributed throughout the head and handle, making it comfortable to use. The beautiful hardwood handle is durable and provides a good grip. The included sheath is also durable and protects the blade when not in use. However, we don’t see this hatchet as being as durable as some of the other options on the market.
Pros
- Axe is perfect for small wood pieces
- Comes with nylon carrying case
- Made from high carbon steel
- Very balanced weight
- Comfortable grip
- Sharp and well made
- The sheath is nice
Cons
- To light for chopping some bigger logs
- Not for lightweight backpacking
3. Estwing Sportsman’s Axe
The Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is a fantastic tool forged in one piece. This means that it is highly durable and will retain its sharpness for a long time. You can choose between a 12-inch and a 14-inch handle. A 14-inch handle is excellent for one-handed wood chopping. The blade sheath is also made from ballistic nylon, making it as solid and durable as the axe. This makes the Estwing camping axe an essential tool for any camper or hiker. The genuine leather wrapping provides a good grip and makes it more comfortable to hold. At the same time, the durable sheath protects the blade and makes it easier to transport. This axe is perfect for chopping logs, small trees, and branches, as well as splitting firewood and kindling during your camping trip.
Furthermore, this is an excellent choice for those looking for a smaller axe that is still durable and looks great. The 14-inch length makes it more suitable for backpacking, and the comfortable handle is easy to hold and cut logs with. The axe is also great for camping wood needs and bushcraft. However, in terms of performance and durability, the Fiskars Splitting Axe has inched ahead from it. It is also easy to hold and very durable.
The handle is comfortable and will not cause blisters on your hand. We have used this axe on a couple of camping trips and performed very well. Overall its a durable and excellent camping hatchet.
Pros
- Comfortable and pleasing to look at
- Great for Bushcraft
- Solid grip
- Durable
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- Comes with a sheath for added safety and protection
- Textured rubber grip provides a comfortable, secure grip
- The axe is sharp and beautiful
Cons
- The handle can be very slick
- Not suitable for heavy duty work
Best Budget Friendly Option
4. WilFiks Chopping Hatchet
The WilFiks Chopping Axe is one of the most affordable hatchets on the market, and it’s also one of the best. It’s available in two sizes – 15 and 36 inches – and the smaller size is ideal for hikers and backpackers. The axe can be used for chopping wood, splitting logs, and more. Plus, it’s easy to resharpen when needed. Its sheath is made from rubber, so you don’t have to worry about getting injured when storing or transporting it. And the grip is solid and comfortable, so you can use it for hours without feeling fatigued. We also appreciated the excellent balance of weight and comfort. After using it for a couple of hours during a camping trip, we didn’t feel tired at all. WilFiks has put a lot of thought into designing this axe, which shows in its performance.
Furthermore, this is an excellent choice for an affordable axe that can handle small to medium-sized wood. We found that it worked well for this purpose and was comfortable to use. However, it is not as durable as some of the more expensive options like Fiskars and Estwing Sportsman on our list. Though you are on a tight budget, this axe will do the job.
Pros
- Great axe at a great price
- It’s ready to use
- Rubberized grip is solid and comfortable
- Nice weight that makes it easy to use
- Small size is perfect for camping and smaller tasks
- Rubber blade cover provides safety and protection
- Small size is perfect for backpacking
Cons
- Not very durable
- Can become dull after few uses
Best Quality Option
5. Estwing E44A-1 Camper’s Axe
Estwing has a well-earned reputation for producing high-quality axes, and the E44A Camper’s Axe lives up to that standard. This axe is incredibly durable as this is made from a single piece of steel. The ergonomic design and rubber handle make it comfortable, even during extended chopping sessions. Additionally, the 16-inch length is ideal for cutting up larger logs. And because it’s made in the USA, you can be confident that you’re getting a top-notch product.
The forged steel handle is solid, and the grip is very comfortable, making it easy to use for extended periods. Additionally, the newer version comes with a nylon sheath that is much more durable than, the older leather sheath. The sheath does an excellent job of protecting the blade and preventing it from getting wet or absorbing moisture.
This axe is great for chopping wood and can also be used for splitting. While it is a bit longer and heavier than other options, it makes up for its performance. The extra length and weight give it more power for chopping wood, and the axe can also be used for hammering. However, this weight is a little bit higher for backpacking. The construction is top-notch, with quality materials that are built to last.
Pros
- Made in the USA
- Handle that absorbs up to 70%
- 16-inch long handle
- Nearly indestructible
- Good heat treatment
- The axe is solid steel
- Well balanced and easy to use
Cons
- The handle should be a little rounder
- Heavy for backpacking
Tomahawk Axe
6. CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe
CRKT Tomahawx axe is made of a basic-looking wood handle and forged carbon steel head. Although the handle does not look that hardcore, the wood used is extremely tough. The axe head is a multipurpose design that can be used as a hammer. A great thing that CRKT made with this camping axe is a lifetime warranty, so you can get a new one even if you have some kind of an issue with it. The forged carbon steel head is extremely tough and can withstand hard use. At the same time, the multipurpose design allows for both axe and hammer capabilities.
This beautifully designed Tomahawx axe is perfect for camping, hunting, and general outdoor use. The only downside of this axe is that it does not come with a sheath, so you will need to purchase one separately. Additionally, the blade’s edge may need to be sharpened after use.
Pros
- The durable and long-lasting handle
- Multipurpose design
- Old traditional style
- Affordable
- Good looking
Cons
- Does not come with sheath
- Have to sharp again after few uses
Best For backpacking
7. Fiskars Axe XXS
The Fiskars camping axe is the smallest on this list, and it’s easily packed and stored in or outside of a backpack. This small camping axe is enough to cut branches and small wood. Although very small and lightweight, the Fiskars camping axe is sharp and can be used as a knife. The weight is distributed for maximum swing power, and the blade sheath can also be used for carrying. An orange handle ensures that you quickly see the tool. Without a doubt, this is a good hiking hatchet because of its weight.
This axe is one of the best quality axes available in the market. This axe is small and compact. So you can pack and take it easy on hiking trips. The safety sheath included with the axe makes it even more convenient to carry. The sharpness of the axe is also commendable. However, the only downside of this axe is its price. It’s slightly more expensive than some of the other axes available in the market. But considering its features, the price is justified. Overall, Fiskars camping axe is an excellent option for anyone looking for a good-quality backpacking axe.
Pros
- Small
- Lightweight
- Very sharp with good weight distribution
- good for backpacking
- Comes with sheath
- Durable and well made
Cons
- Bit expensive
- Not suitable to cut large woods
Best Survival Hatchet
8. SOG Survival Hawk
SOG is a tactical, lightweight camping axe for outdoor lovers and campers. The axe comes with many great features that can be used out in the wild. Some of them are fire starter and wire cuter or claw for prying. Axe is 12 inches long and easily carried or packed on a backpack. It is made of high-quality materials that can withstand many beatings. SOG camping axe is the perfect choice for those who want an axe with many great features. The fire starter is an excellent feature for those who love spending time outdoors. The wire cutter is another great feature that can cut through thick brush or branches. The claw can be used to pry open cans or containers. The axe is also very durable and can withstand many beatings.
The SOG Survival Hawk is an excellent tool for outdoor adventure lovers. Its multifunctional design makes it perfect for self-defense, camping, hiking, and other survival situations. The hawk comes sharp out of the box and can easily be re-sharpened if necessary. Additionally, You can use it to pull out tent stakes. However, the hawk’s handle and head balance does not look stable, and the hawk is a bit heavier toward the head, which may cause it to slip.
Pros
- Tactical design
- Firestarter
- Short and Compact
- Easy to carry
- Blade is Sharp and Durable,
Cons
- The blade is small and not meant for cutting bigger wood
- Grip issue
Best Of The Rest
9. Estwing Fireside Friend Axe
The Fireside Friend Splitting Tool is durable and lasts long. Made from one piece of forged metal with a 4 lb head. This makes it great for splitting or chopping firewood. The handle is also made from shock absorbent rubber, which makes it comfortable to use and helps to prevent injuries. With a heavy head, splitting wood is easy, and most commonly, one hit is enough for almost any size of wood. This makes the Fireside Friend Splitting Tool an essential tool for anyone who uses a fireplace or stove to heat their home.
The Fireside Friend Splitting Tool axe is a great choice for a durable and sturdy axe. The axe is made from high-quality materials, and it is designed to be comfortable to hold. The axe’s edge is hand sharpened, and the grip is shock reduced. The axe also comes with a nylon sheath. The sheath protects the axe’s edge and helps keep it sharp. Additionally, its works for both soft and hardwoods. Overall this is a good axe for the job.
Pros
- Heavy head
- Forged in one piece
- Rubber handle
- Perfect for splitting wood
- Easy to transport
- Durable construction
Cons
- Too heavy for backpacking
- Not for big log cutting
10. Husqvarna 13″ Wooden Hatchet
The Husqvarna Wooden Hatchet is a beautifully crafted tool perfect for various tasks, from minor to medium size. It is available in multiple sizes and designs, with different price points to suit your needs. The hatchet comes with a leather edge cover, which protects the blade and makes it more durable. The weight of the hatchet is 2.2 pounds, making it easy to carry around. The Husqvarna Hatchet is a beautifully made tool forged out of Swedish steel. It’s heavier than most hatchets on the market, but that only adds to its durability. The weight also makes it easier to chop through wood, making it an excellent choice for anyone needing a durable and well-made axe. And, because the steel is of such high quality, the edge will stay sharper for much longer before it needs to be re-sharpened.
Husqvarna Wooden Hatchet is an excellent addition to any camping or hiking gear. The hatchet is perfect for splitting wood for a campfire, and the durable construction can handle even the most demanding cuts. The hatchet is also ideal for clearing a trail or cutting down small trees. This hatchet is a bit heavier than some other models on our list, but this is due to the high-quality construction. The hatchet also features a comfortable grip that will not rub or create blisters. Overall this is indeed a good value for the money.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Durable construction for extended use
- Superior sharpness and edge retention
- Versatile for a variety of applications
- Beautiful design and craftsmanship
- Very affordable for the quality you receive
- Can take decent cuts
- Rough edge can be sharpened easily
Cons
- A little heavier
- Wrong use can damage the hatchet
11. Gransfors Bruks Forest Axe
The Gransfors Bruks Forest Axe is yet another high-quality and well-designed axe from the company that has been making world-class axes for years. As with all of their axes, the Gransfors Bruks forest Axe is lightweight and easily portable, weighing just 2 pounds. The length of the axe is 19 inches, which makes it a perfect size for easy swings and transportability. As with all Gransfors Bruks axes, the forest Axe comes with a sheath to protect the blade and yourself. The handle is made of hickory which is durable yet comfortable to hold. The head is hand-forged and made of Swedish Boron steel which will stay sharp longer than other axe heads on the market.
The Gransfors Bruks Forest Axe is a top-quality option for anyone who frequently goes on camping trips, specially for car camping and RVing. Its sharpness and balance are much better than other competing axes, and its durability is second to none. If you frequently go on camping trips, you won’t regret investing in this Axe. However, due to its length, it cannot easily fit into a backpack. Instead, you’ll need to carry it separately. But the extra effort is well worth it, given the unparalleled quality of this Axe.
Additionally, This Axe is made from durable materials and features a comfortable handle that makes it easy to use. Also, the Axe is well suited for bushcraft, survival and hunting. However, this Axe is pricy. But it’s a great value for the money considering top-notch quality and performance. If you cannot afford it, then we suggest you look for another option from our list.
Pros
- Handcrafted with great precision and care
- Durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear
- Decent cuts right out of the box
- It comes sharp and stays sharp
- The perfect bushcrafting axe
- Good length for easy carrying
- Can be used with one or two hands
- Comfortable to use
- Perfect for camping and hiking
- Lightweight and well balanced
Cons
- This axe is pricy
- Bit lengthy for small backpacks
12. Gerber Freescape Hatchet
The Gerber Freescape Hatchet is a beautiful, well-designed tool available in multiple lengths from 9 to 24 inches. The small size is excellent for backpacking and hiking trips. The handle is very beautifully designed and comfortable. It does not put any strain on the hand due to the shock absorbent handle. The hatchet also comes with a sheath for safe storage and transport. Gerber Freescape Hatchet is one of the best durable and lightest axe available. Its weight is just 3.17 ounces, ideal for hiking trips. Additionally, this is a much-improved version of previous releases.
We used the 9 inches as we wanted to buy them for easy backpacking. It brilliantly worked for cutting and chopping small to medium-sized woods. The hatchet was very comfortable to use and worked flawlessly every time. The sheath included with the hatchet is also of outstanding quality, which makes it easy to carry around. Overall, we are very impressed with the Gerber Freescape Hatchet. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for good quality and lightweight axe for backpacking or camping trips. The Gerber Freescape Hatchet is our favorite due to its weight and size. This is an ultralight option for backpacking, and its blade is very sharp and durable. It’s reasonably well priced and great value for the money. If you use it properly, it will work for years.
Pros
- Superior quality and craftsmanship
- Versatile for a variety of applications
- Durable and long lasting
- Easy to use and maintain
- Lightweight and well balanced for easy use
- Ideal size for everyday carry
- High quality construction
- Durable blade can handle a variety of tasks
- Easily fits in tight spaces
- Great value for the price
Cons
- Handle is short for small hatchets
- Not good for heavy duty work
Comparison Table: Camping Axes and Hatchets
Our camping axes and hatchets comparison table is designed to help you find the best option for your needs. The table includes key performance parameters, such as price, weight, size, and handle material. In addition, we’ve also included hand fit and other important factors. By looking at this table, you’ll quickly see where each option stands in terms of performance. You can make a well-informed decision about which axe is right for you.
| Name | Price | Weight | Size | Handle Material | Blade Material | Hand Fit |
| Fiskars Splitting Axe | $51.77 | 2.18 Pounds | 17 Inches | Nylon | Metal | Excellent |
| Kershaw Deschutes Bearded Hatchet | $57.49 | 1 Pound | 14 Inches | Glass-filled nylon, rubber overlay | Steel | Excellent |
| Estwing Sportsman’s Axe | $59.14 | 1.86 Pounds | 14 Inches | Leather | Metal | Excellent |
| WilFiks Chopping Hatchet | $21.99 | 2.48 Pounds | 15 Inches 36 Inches | Ergonomic Shaped Fiberglass | Forged Carbon Steel Blade | Superb |
| Estwing E44A-1 ES44A 26″ Blue Camper’s Axe | $62.66 | 7 Ounces | 16 Inches 26 Inches | Genuine Leather | Hand Polished Steel | Excellent |
| CRKT Woods Chogan Tomahawk Axe | $60.52 | 1.99 Pounds | 482.6 mm | Tennessee Hickory | 1055 Carbon Steel | Excellent |
| Fiskars Camping Axe XXS X | $55.74 | 0.55 Kg | 23 Cm 35.5 Cm | Stainless Steel | Stainless Steel | Good |
| SOG Survival Hawk | $64.89 | 7.1 Ounces | 12 Inches | Glass-Reinforced Nylon | 2Cr black stainless steel | Excellent |
| Estwing Fireside Friend Axe | $41.99 | 7 Ounces | 14 Inches | Rubber | American Steel | Excellent |
| Husqvarna 13″ Wooden Hatchet | $59.99 | 2.2 Pounds | 13 Inches | Hickory | Hand-Forged Swedish Steel | Excellent |
| Gransfors Bruks Forest Axe | $195 | 2.2 Pounds | 19.69 Inches | Hickory | Swedish Boron steel | Excellent |
| Gerber Freescape Hatchet | $46.99 | 3.17 Ounces | 9 – 24 Inches | Nylon | Alloy Steel | Excellent |
Our Analysis And Buying Guide
Camping axes are versatile tools that can be used for various purposes, from chopping wood for a fire to self-defense in an encounter with a wild animal. In this article, we will discuss our analysis and research results on the best camping axes and provide a handy buying guide.
Sharpness
When it comes to camping axes, sharpness is critical. A dull axe can be dangerous to use and is also much less effective at chopping wood. That’s why choosing an axe that comes sharp right out of the box is essential. The Fiskars X11 Axe, Kershaw Deschutes Bearded Hatchet, Fiskars Axe XXS, and Gransfors Bruks Forest Axe are all great options that will arrive razor-sharp and ready to use.
A sharp axe blade will be able to handle a variety of tasks, from chopping wood to clearing brush. However, a dull blade can be dangerous, as it is more likely to slip and cause injury.
Size And Weight
When choosing a camping axe, size and weight are important factors to consider. While a heavier axe may be more durable, it can also be more difficult to transport. The lighter axe is easy to carry during hiking or backpacking trips. However, a heavier axe can be more convenient if you’re simply car camping or RVing. It’s also worth considering the type of wood you’ll be chopping. If you’re dealing with hardwoods, a heavier axe may be necessary. However, a lighter axe may suffice if you’re only chopping softwoods. We have included several axes and hatchets models with various weights/sizes available from our list of top picks for this article. Below is our comparison based on the weight of our top axes.
In general, though smaller tools are lighter, which makes them easier (and quicker)to carry around while hiking long distances on foot but there tends not to be quite as much power behind each strike due to their lack mass compared.
Balance
The right balance is vital to have in a camping axe. With it, you can comfortably hit the logs and cut wood with precision without any problems whatsoever. However, if there’s not enough weight on one side or another, then everything will start getting out of shape rather quickly – especially when doing tasks like cutting through thick tree trunks that require careful attention from all sides at once.
Here are some hatches with the right balance:
Chopping And Splitting
There are two main types: chopping axes and splitting axes. Each type of axe has its distinct advantages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Chopping axes are designed for, well, chopping. They have a sharp, curved blade that is ideal for cutting through wood.
On the other hand, splitting axes have a narrower blade with a straight edge. This design makes them better suited for splitting logs into smaller pieces. So, a chopping axe is the way to go if you’re looking to do some major woodcutting. However, a splitting axe will be more effective if you need to split some logs for kindling or other purposes.
Durability
Camping axe durability is, of course, very crucial. You want an axe that can withstand the rigors of camping life without breaking or chipping. While a more durable axe may be pricier than its less durable counterparts, it will be worth the investment in the long run. Some of the most durable axes on the market include the Fiskars X11 Axe, the Estwing E44A-1, and the Fiskars Axe XXS. These axes are built to last and will provide you with years of dependable service.
FAQs
Camp Axe Vs a hatchet
The main difference between a camp axe and a hatchet is their size. A camp axe is typically longer than a hatchet, which makes it more efficient for cutting up larger pieces of wood. On the other hand, a hatchet has a smaller handle, which makes it ideal for chopping wood and using it with one hand.
Unlike hatchets, axes are designed to be used with two hands to maximize strike power. As a result, each tool has advantages and disadvantages that make it more or less suited for different tasks. When choosing between a camp axe and a hatchet, it is essential to consider what type of work you will do to select the best tool suited for the job.
What is better hatchet or axe?
When it comes to choosing between a hatchet and a camping axe, it depends on your individual needs and preferences. Hatchets are smaller and thus more easily packed, making them ideal for backpacking. However, they are not able to split larger pieces of wood. On the other hand, camping axes are much heavier, but they can be used to cut almost anything.
Therefore, a camping axe is better if weight isn’t a concern. However, a hatchet is a way to go if you need a lightweight option. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which tool is best for your individual needs.
Should I bring an axe for camping?
If you can bring a real axe for camping, we would recommend it. You will be able to cut almost any size of wood and also use it as a mallet. Remember that this is a recommendation if you plan to stay for several days in the camp. If you are only interested in one-night stays, you should stick with a camping hatchet because it is lighter and easier to use. Most likely, it will be enough for all your needs that contain wood.
What size axe do you need for camping?
There are many different sizes of the axe, and they all serve their purpose. You should not carry the biggest one you find in the store. You should stick with an axe that is less than 2 feet long. This length ensures that you have enough power to cut firewood. It will maximize your striking power, and you are not going to tire yourself. On the other hand, if you need something capable of cutting small wood for the fire, around a 12-inch axe is the most you need.
But you don’t need to worry about that because every axe on this list is a great option no matter what you want to do with it.
Summary
That is our take on this article. We hope that we have helped you in choosing the best camping hatchet or axe. Remember that every product on this list has pros and cons, as we wrote. The description of every product was written after heavy testing, so you don’t need to buy every one. When choosing a product from this list, read the description and find what suits you the best. And last but not least, enjoy your newly bought tool for camping or backpacking.
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