While every tool brought to a campsite serves a purpose, few are as versatile as the hatchet. A quality hatchet is light enough to carry in a backpack but strong enough to convert branches into kindling and small trees into emergency housing. A sharp hatchet can also help field-dress wild game, and some models even store other survival gear, such as fire starters, in their handles.
If you are in the market for a quality hatchet, read our helpful shopping guide. At the top of our list is the Gransfors Bruk 13.5-Inch Wildlife Hatchet, a handcrafted survival hatchet from Sweden that keeps a good edge and is an ideal weight for multiple uses.
The length of a hatchet’s handle is one of its most defining features. By design, a hatchet handle will be shorter than that of a standard ax. However, the relative length of the handle can determine how much force is transmitted to the head and blade during use. A longer handle means more leverage and overall power, but a shorter handle provides more control and improved portability.
The overall weight of a hatchet can be a trade-off between power and portability. If a hatchet is too light, it will not be able to cut through heavier branches or fell a small tree. If it is too heavy, fatigue can set in quickly.
The head and blade need to be protected from the elements between uses, and you need to be protected from the head and blade. A good leather or plastic sheath addresses both of these issues. Not all hatchet manufacturers include a sheath as part of the original package.
Some hatchets fit securely in special belt loops around the user’s waist. Much like a contractor’s toolbelt, a number of important survival tools can be carried close to the body for easy access instead of being stored away in a backpack or storage box.
An entry-level tool-grade hatchet can generally be purchased at a hardware or sporting goods store for $30 or less, but high-quality models with hand-forged heads and durable handles can cost $150 or more. Anything in the mid-range should be suitable for most amateur campers who do not require survival tools.
A. A hatchet is generally smaller and lighter than a standard ax, but some people refer to a hatchet as a “camp ax.” A hatchet can be used with one hand, while a wood-chopping ax requires two hands.
A. Hatchets are supposed to be light enough to use with one hand, but heavy enough to chop wood efficiently. Camping experts suggest an ideal hatchet should weigh around 1.5 pounds for general purposes.
Gransfors Bruk’s 13.5-Inch Wildlife Hatchet
Our take: For those seeking an all-around hatchet for handling multiple tasks, this hand-crafted model from Sweden is an excellent choice.
What we like: Blade is easy to sharpen, holds an edge for a long time. The handle is well-crafted and made of solid wood. In the ideal weight range at 1.3 pounds.
What we dislike: Some handmade hatchets can have off-center heads. Expensive price point.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Fiskars’ 378501-1002 X7 Hatchet
Our take: Affordably priced for weekend campers who need to create kindling and trim small logs for a campfire or brush clearing.
What we like: Includes a lifetime warranty. Lightweight, good for less experienced users. Well-balanced in hand.
What we dislike: Handle constructed from plastic, not as durable as wood or metal. Blade can lose edge quickly.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Schrade’s SCAXE2 11.8-Inch Stainless Steel Small Ax
Our take: We recommend the Schrade SCAXE2 for its compact size and the inclusion of basic survival tools, such as a fire starter and hammer.
What we like: Maintains a good edge for light-duty uses. Compact design, easy to carry in a backpack or store in a vehicle. Includes a fire striker and a hammer grommet for survival.
What we dislike: Hollow handle can break under pressure. Not recommended for use in cold weather.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Michael Pollick writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
