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You have this picture in your head. It's dark and the campfire is creating a cheerful glow on the faces of your loved ones as you all sit around the fire warming yourselves.
Well, campfires don't make themselves. You are going to need a hatchet to prepare your wood. If you haven't filled your car with logs and kindling, there will be some preparations required. And a hatchet will be your best friend.
Ok then - you ready? Just read on to find the best hatchet for your needs.
How We Uncover The Best For You
We understand it can be overwhelming choosing a hatchet when there are so many makes and models out there (and don't get me started on the axes!)
It takes time to decide which hatchet is the best for your needs. And what you really need, is time to practice building that campfire!
So, drawing on our experience, we have taken the time to read tons of reviews, to weigh up the options with you in mind, and to present them to you in this article so you can make the best choice with ease.
Best For Durability
We Chose This Because
- It is Durable with Free Replacement
- Ergonomic Design
- FiberComp Handle
Things We Love
I love that the Fiskars X7 Hatchet is so durable and robust that it comes with a lifetime guarantee. So if you ever do manage to break it, simply return it to Fiskars for a free replacement. You will be able to use it for years and will find it's still going strong.
I've used it for everything from chopping wood to clearing brush, and it's never let me down.
It's made from a single piece of steel, so it's incredibly durable. And the FiberComp handle is virtually unbreakable. So even if you're the heaviest of handed, this axe can take it. In my opinion, you can't go wrong with a Fiskars axe. They're built to last, and they're incredibly versatile.
Things To Know
The Fiskars X7 Hatchet is the perfect tool for preparing kindling and chopping smaller logs. The handle fits into your hand comfortably and helps with the power being transferred into the head in a balanced way. This makes chopping and splitting wood a breeze.
I have found that this hatchet works great for carving projects too, like wooden spoons or bowls.
This hatchet is also relatively lightweight so you can take it with you on camping trips or hikes without feeling weighed down. It's a great tool for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Best For Survival
We Chose This Because
- It is Light
- Easy Access
- Innovative Features
Things We Love
I've been an outdoors enthusiast for as long as I can remember. What I love about the Schrade SCAXE2 11.8in Stainless Steel Survival Hatchet is that it's perfect for survival in the wilderness.
It's light enough to easily carry with you on a backpacking trip but still has enough heft to make short work of any task.
The Ferro rod shaft construction ensures that it will stand up to whatever you throw at it, and the belt loop and belt sheath make it easy to access when you need it.
Whether you're chopping up wood for a campfire or building a shelter, the Schrade SCAXE2 11.8in Stainless Steel Survival Hatchet is an essential piece of gear.
Things To Know
The Schrade SCAXE2 11.8in Stainless Steel Survival Hatchet is the perfect tool for a range of environments.
With a cold-resistant handle, we know that this will be a good option for trips out in winter.
The firestarter feature built into the handle helps you get a fire going in no time. I know how difficult it can be when you hands are numb and you are fumbling around trying to create the warmth you need by building your campfire.
This makes the Schrade Stainless Steel Survival Hatchet a great tool for survival trips in the wilderness.
Best For Functionality
Estwing Special Edition Fireside Friend Wood Splitting Maul
A Cracking Choice for Functionality
We Chose This Because
- It is Versatile
- Forged from American Steel
- Anti-vibration
Things We Love
I absolutely love this wood-splitting maul! This 14" wood-splitting maul is designed to make splitting wood a breeze.
The wedge-shaped axe head easily drives into logs, and the weight of the axe provides extra power to help split even the toughest pieces of wood.
Not only is it great for fireside fun, but it's also quite versatile. It can be used for driving in tent stakes when camping, and it works like a charm.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone who's looking for a reliable and durable wood-splitting maul.
Things To Know
What I absolutely love about this axe is that it's incredibly well-made, and it's clear that a lot of care went into crafting it. Forged from a single piece of American steel, this tough little axe is built to last.
It is very tough and the anti-vibration grip is comfortable, even after extended use.
And the ballistic nylon sheath is a nice touch - it really protects the axe and makes it easy to carry around.
Overall, I'm very impressed with this product. Whether you are chopping firewood for your campfire or felling trees for a shelter, the Estwing Special Edition Fireside Friend Axe will help you be prepared for whatever nature throws your way.
Best For Compact Size
We Chose This Because
- Compact Design
- Ergonomic Finger Grooves
- Sturdy
Things We Love
What I love about the Gerber Pack Hatchet Camping Axe is its compact design. When I'm packing for a camping trip, I don't want to have to worry about lugging a big, cumbersome axe around. This one is lightweight and easy to carry, but it's still sturdy enough to handle whatever camp tasks I need it for.
Plus, the sleek design means it can easily be packed away into your camping gear – I think it's a great choice for any avid outdoorsman to carry when space is at a premium.
Things To Know
An easy-to-use and reliable hatchet, this baby has a full tang construction for added strength, plus a rubber grip that makes it comfortable to use. And with a controlled swing, you can be sure that your chopping will be precise and safe.
The finger grooves provide great edge control, so I can achieve precision when chopping up wood. And if I need to use it for anything else, like splitting kindling, it works just as well. This axe has definitely become one of my trusty camping companions for those times I am short of packing space.
So make sure to pack the Gerber Pack Hatchet Camping Axe on your next camping trip.
Best Hatchet With A Wooden Handle
We Chose This Because
- Hand Forged in Sweden
- Wooden Handle
- Sturdy
Things We Love
I really enjoy spending time outdoors, so I was excited to try the Husqvarna 13" Wooden Hatchet. This hand-forged hatchet is perfect for splitting wood and light branches and chopping firewood.
The strong and sturdy blade is made of high-quality steel, and it can stand up to any task.
Plus, the top-quality leather sheath protects the blade when you're not using it.
The wooden hickory handle is also comfortable to grip. This hatchet is hand forged in Sweden and is backed by Husqvarna's reputation for quality. I would definitely recommend this hatchet to anyone who spends time outdoors.
This hatchet is made from durable materials that will stand up to all your chopping and splitting needs.
Things To Know
I do find however that the beautiful wooden handle only performs at its optimum when it's properly cared for. Tools made of natural materials like wood and leather do require maintenance and careful storage.
Even the most durable tools can be affected by the elements. So if you're using this hatchet in dry conditions, be sure to apply some linseed oil to the wood to prevent it from splitting. I am happy to do this to keep it in tip-top condition.
And if you take care of it properly, it will last you for years to come. Just be sure to keep the blade dry and grease it regularly.
So whether you're an experienced woodsman or a novice camper, I think you'll like this hatchet. The Husqvarna 13" Wooden Hand Forged Hatchet is a beautiful tool and a great choice for splitting wood and your other chopping needs.
The Best Camping Hatchet For You?
Best Hatchet Buyers Guide: When you are shopping for a hatchet for your camping trip you will find there is a lot of choice. We think it might be useful for you if we share with you how we made our choices so that you feel confident when it's time to make your choice.
How Do I Choose A Hatchet?
These are the things we took into consideration when we choose which camping hatchets to feature:
Intended Use
The most important factor to consider when choosing a hatchet is what you'll be using it for. There are different types of hatchets designed for different purposes, such as camping, chopping up wood, or hunting.
Weight
You'll also want to consider the weight of the hatchet. If you'll be carrying it around with you on hikes, you'll want a hatchet or backpacking axe that's light and easy to carry. But if you'll only be using it for occasional tasks around the house or on car camping trips, a heavier hatchet will be more durable and effective.
Heavier hatchets or camping axes are better for chopping up wood, while lighter hatchets are better for tasks like splitting wood and making kindling.
Size
Make sure to choose one that's the right size for the job you need it for. You don't want a hatchet that's too big or too small.
Consider the axe head size.
Bear in mind your own size. If you are tall you may want to take shaft length into account when you are planning your purchase.
Maintenance
Have a good think about how much time you have available to keep your axe in tip-top condition. Keeping it sharp is a given but bear in mind als0 that natural materials will need special care.
Storage conditions are also worth paying attention to.
Budget
Finally, price is always a consideration, so choose the camping hatchets that best fits your budget and needs.
Best Hatchet For Camping - Your Questions Answered
Your Answers Are Just A Short Distance Away, Keep Reading!
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about camping hatchets to help you make a cracking choice and snag one of the best hatchets for camping, just in time for your next trip:
Do I Need A Hatchet For Camping?
It is possible to go camping without a hatchet. You could use a camping knife around the campsite if necessary. It will however be better to take one along if you are camping in the wild or you know you will be building a campfire.
If you're just looking for a basic camping hatchet to chop wood, then a smaller hatchet will do the job.
However, if you need something more heavy-duty that can also be used as a weapon, then you'll need bigger and sturdier camping hatchets or camping axes. In either case, it's always best to plan a bit beforehand to make sure you have the right tool for the job.
Is A Hatchet Or Axe Better For Camping?
Well, that really depends on what you're using it for. Camping hatchets are better for smaller jobs, like chopping kindling or small branches, while camp axes are better for larger jobs, like chopping down a tree. Either way, make sure you have a good grip on the tool and be aware of your surroundings – you don't want to chop off your own foot!
What Is The Difference Between An Ax And A Hatchet?
An ax is a longer, heavier tool that is used for chopping down trees or splitting logs. We wrote an article about best camping axes if you'd like to learn more.
A hatchet, on the other hand, is a smaller and more agile tool that is designed for finer work, such as splitting kindling or fashioning tinder. Hatchets are also commonly used as weapons. A small forest axe or camp hatchet is easier to carry around than a full sized axe.
What's The Difference Between A Hatchet And A Tomahawk?
The difference between a hatchet and a tomahawk is mainly in their intended use.
Typically, a hatchet is a small, single-handed tool with a short handle designed for chopping.
A tomahawk, on the other hand, is a larger multi-purpose tool that can be used for tasks such as chopping, hammering, and wedging. The tomahawk usually has a longer handle length and a broader head than a hatchet.
Both tools can be used for self-defence if necessary.
Is A Hatchet A Good Survival Tool?
There's no denying that a camping hatchet can be a useful tool in a variety of situations, especially if you're trying to survive in the wild.
With its sharp blade, a hatchet can help you cut down trees, build shelter, chop up wood and even hunt for food.
To get the most out of your hatchet, it's important to choose the right one for your needs. For example, if you plan on doing a lot of wood chopping, you'll want to choose a hatchet with a strong blade and sharp cutting edge.
If self-defence is more your focus, then you might want to choose a smaller hatchet that you can easily carry with you and use as needed.
No matter what your specific needs are, there's likely a hatchet or survival axe out there that's perfect.
Do I Need A Hatchet For Backpacking?
It depends on what you're looking to use the hatchet for. The best camping hatchets are versatile tools that can be used for many things, including but not limited to: chopping wood, hammering in tent stakes and breaking open cans of food.
That said, if you're only looking to bring one tool with you on your backpacking trip and are not expecting to need to chop any wood, it may be worth considering bringing something that is more specific to one task, such as a knife.
Can You Use A Hatchet To Start A Fire?
You can certainly use a hatchet to start a fire. In fact, a hatchet can be a useful tool for starting fires in a number of ways.
For one thing, the sharp blade can be used to create shavings or other small pieces of kindling that can help get a fire going.
Additionally, the hatchet can be used to strike a spark into dry tinder, which can then be used to ignite the larger fuel source.
So, if you find yourself in a situation where you need to start a fire and all you have is a hatchet, don't despair - you definitely have the tools on hand to get the job done!
What Hatchet Is Safest?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, such as the environment in which you will be using the hatchet and your own personal preferences.
However, some people may find that a hatchet with a longer handle length provides more leverage and therefore greater safety when striking objects.
Others may prefer a hatchet with a smaller head for more precision when cutting. Ultimately, it is important to choose a hatchet that feels comfortable and safe for the user.
We read thousands of reviews to make sure we put together well-researched lists for your benefit. You want the hatchet, but you don't want to do all the research. We understand that, so we've done it for you:
Our Choice for Durability
Our Choice for Survival
Schrade Stainless Steel Survival Hatchet
Our Choice for Functionality
Estwing Special Edition Fireside Friend Wood Splitting Maul
Our Choice for A Compact Size
Gerber Pack Hatchet Camping Axe
Our Choice for A Wooden Handle
We hope you found our review useful. Feel free to look at our article on the best camping axes too. We love that we can do this for you - help make your choices clearer so you can have more fun! Soon you will be looking forward to practising your skills and before you know it you'll be sitting around that campfire. You can do this!
