As an outdoor enthusiast, I know that having the right tools is essential for any wilderness adventure - with a quality axe being an essential item.
The best bushcraft axes are:
- Best Overall: Hults Bruk Almike Axe
- Best Budget: Estwing Sportsman's Axe
- Best Lightweight: Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe
- Best Heavy-Duty: Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe
- Best for Carving: Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet
- Best for Splitting: Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe
When it comes to choosing a bushcraft axe, it's important to consider factors such as weight, handle material, and blade design. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why I've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of what to look for in a bushcraft axe and be well-equipped to choose the perfect tool for your next adventure.
Key Takeaways
- The best overall bushcraft axe: Hults Bruk Almike Axe
- Understanding the key features of a bushcraft axe is essential for choosing the right tool.
- Top bushcraft axe brands include Hults Bruk, Gransfors Bruk, and Fiskars.
- Proper care and maintenance of your bushcraft axe is crucial for ensuring its longevity.
Table of Contents
Understanding Bushcraft Axes
As someone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors, I've found that having the right tools is essential for a successful trip.
One of the most important tools for any bushcrafter is a good axe. But with so many different types of axes on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose.
In this section, I'll provide an overview of bushcraft axes and help you understand the differences between them.
Design
When it comes to bushcraft axes, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to consider the design of the axe.
The best bushcraft axes are somewhat compact, with the most preferable models easily zipping up into a backpack for lightweight, convenient travel. Handmade axes are the best, of course, and, as such, are often unique with an occasional imperfection.
Function
Next, you'll want to think about the function of the axe. Bushcraft axes can be used for a variety of tasks, including chopping wood, splitting firewood, carving, and even self-defense. It's important to choose an axe that is versatile enough to handle all of these tasks.
Axe Type
There are also different types of bushcraft axes to consider. Single-bit axes are the most common type of bushcraft axe, and they are great for general-purpose use.
Double-bit axes, on the other hand, have two cutting edges and are often used for heavy-duty tasks like felling trees - making this a great choice for a felling axe. Tomahawks are another type of axe that can be useful for bushcrafting, as they are lightweight and easy to carry.
Intended Use
When choosing a bushcraft axe, it's important to consider your own needs and preferences. Think about the types of tasks you'll be using the axe for, as well as your own physical abilities.
You'll also want to consider the weight and balance of the axe, as well as the quality of the materials used in its construction.
Top 6 Axes for Bushcraft
1. Best Overall: Hults Bruk Almike Axe
The Hults Bruk Almike Axe is a premium bushcraft axe that is hand-forged in Sweden.
It has a 1.75-pound head made of high-quality carbon steel, and a 16-inch hickory handle that provides excellent grip and control. This axe is perfect for chopping wood, carving, and other bushcraft activities.
Specifications
- Head weight: 1.75 pounds
- Handle length: 16 inches
- Total weight: 2.2 pounds
Performance
The Hults Bruk Almike Axe is a top-performing axe that is great for all types of bushcraft activities.
Its sharp edge blade can easily chop wood and carve, while its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
What Sets This Product Apart
The Hults Bruk Almike Axe is hand-forged by skilled craftsmen in Sweden, ensuring that each axe is of the highest quality.
It also comes with a leather sheath and a 20-year warranty, which is a testament to its durability and longevity.
Benefits
- Hand-forged in Sweden
- High-quality carbon steel blade
- 20-year warranty
Drawbacks
- Expensive
- May be too heavy for some users
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
Who Should Buy This Product?
Anyone who is serious about bushcraft and wants a top-quality axe that will last for years should consider the Hults Bruk Almike Axe.
Where to Buy This Product
2. Best Budget: Estwing Sportsman's Axe
The Estwing Sportsman's Axe is a great budget option for anyone who wants a reliable and durable bushcraft axe.
It has a 14-inch handle made of lightweight fiberglass, and a 3.25-pound head made of high-quality steel. This axe is perfect for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Specifications
- Head weight: 3.25 pounds
- Handle length: 14 inches
- Total weight: 4.1 pounds
Performance
The Estwing Sportsman's Axe is a great all-around axe that is perfect for camping and other outdoor activities.
Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, while its sharp blade can easily chop wood and split logs.
What Sets This Product Apart
The Estwing Sportsman's Axe is made in the USA and is known for its durability and reliability. It also comes with a leather sheath to protect the blade.
Benefits
- Made in the USA
- Durable and reliable
- Comes with a leather sheath
Drawbacks
- Heavy
- May be too large for some users
- Handle may become slippery when wet
Who Should Buy This Product?
Anyone who wants a reliable and durable bushcraft axe at an affordable price should consider the Estwing Sportsman's Axe.
Where to Buy This Product
3. Best Lightweight: Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe
The Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe is a lightweight and compact axe that is perfect for backpacking and camping.
It has a 1.25-pound head made of high-quality steel, and a 19-inch hickory handle that provides excellent grip and control.
Specifications
- Head weight: 1.25 pounds
- Handle length: 19 inches
- Total weight: 2 pounds
Performance
The Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe is a lightweight and compact axe that is perfect for backpacking and camping.
Its sharp blade can easily chop wood and carve, while its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
What Sets This Product Apart
The Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe is made in the USA and is known for its high-quality construction. It also comes with a leather sheath to protect the blade.
Benefits
- Lightweight and compact
- High-quality construction
- Comes with a leather sheath
Drawbacks
- May be too small for some users
- Handle may be too short for some users
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
Who Should Buy This Product?
Anyone who wants a lightweight and compact bushcraft axe for backpacking and camping should consider the Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe.
Where to Buy This Product
4. Best Heavy-Duty: Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe
The Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe is a heavy-duty axe that is perfect for chopping wood and other heavy-duty tasks.
It has a 1.8-pound head made of high-quality carbon steel, and a 20-inch hickory handle that provides excellent grip and control. This axe is perfect for hunting, camping, and other outdoor activities.
Specifications
- Head weight: 1.8 pounds
- Handle length: 20 inches
- Total weight: 3.2 pounds
Performance
The Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe is a heavy-duty axe that is perfect for chopping wood and other heavy-duty tasks.
Its sharp blade can easily chop through thick branches and logs, while its long handle provides excellent leverage.
What Sets This Product Apart
The Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe is hand-forged in Sweden and is known for its high-quality construction. It also comes with a leather sheath to protect the blade.
Benefits
- Hand-forged in Sweden
- High-quality carbon steel blade
- Comes with a leather sheath
Drawbacks
- Heavy
- May be too large for some users
- Expensive
Who Should Buy This Product?
Anyone who needs a heavy-duty bushcraft axe for hunting, camping, or other outdoor activities should consider the Wetterlings Large Hunting Axe.
Where to Buy This Product
5. Best for Carving: Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet
The Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet is a great option for anyone who wants a bushcraft axe that is perfect for carving.
It has a 1-pound head made of high-quality carbon steel, and a 13.5-inch hickory handle that provides excellent grip and control.
Specifications
- Head weight: 1 pound
- Handle length: 13.5 inches
- Total weight: 1.3 pounds
Performance
The Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet is a great option for carving and other detailed bushcraft tasks. Its sharp blade can easily carve through wood, while its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver.
What Sets This Product Apart
The Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet is hand-forged in Sweden and is known for its high-quality construction. It also comes with a leather sheath to protect the blade.
Benefits
- Hand-forged in Sweden
- High-quality carbon steel blade
- Comes with a leather sheath
Drawbacks
- Expensive
- May be too small for some users
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
Who Should Buy This Product?
Anyone who wants a bushcraft axe that is perfect for carving and other detailed tasks should consider the Gransfors Bruks Wildlife Hatchet.
Where to Buy This Product
6. Best for Splitting: Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe
The Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe is a great option for anyone who needs an axe that is perfect for splitting wood.
It has a 4-pound axe head made of high-quality steel, and a 36-inch handle that provides excellent leverage.
Specifications
- Head weight: 4 pounds
- Handle length: 36 inches
- Total weight: 5.85 pounds
Performance
The Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe is a top-performing axe that is perfect for splitting wood. Its sharp blade can easily split logs, while its long handle provides excellent leverage.
What Sets This Product Apart
The Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe is known for its unique design, which allows for maximum efficiency when splitting wood. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
Benefits
- Unique design for maximum efficiency
- High-quality steel blade
- Lifetime warranty
Drawbacks
- Heavy
- May be too large for some users
- Not suitable for other bushcraft tasks
Who Should Buy This Product?
This is a good bushcraft axe that is perfect for splitting wood should consider the Fiskars X27 Super Splitting Axe.
Where to Buy This Product
Key Features to Consider
When looking for the best bushcraft axe, there are several key features to consider. The following sub-sections will help you make an informed decision when selecting the right axe for your needs.
Material and Durability
The material and durability of an axe are crucial factors to consider. Look for an axe with a sturdy and durable blade made of stainless steel.
The blade should be able to withstand heavy use without dulling or chipping. Additionally, look for an axe with a handle made of hickory or another durable wood. This will ensure that the axe can withstand heavy use and extreme weather conditions.
Handle Design and Comfort
The handle design and comfort of an axe are important factors to consider. Look for a product with a comfortable and ergonomic handle design, as the best bushcraft hatchet should provide comfort and ease of use. The handle should be easy to grip and should not cause discomfort or fatigue during use.
Additionally, look for an axe with a curved handle, which can help improve your swing and increase your accuracy.
Blade Sharpness and Cutting Edge
The blade sharpness and cutting edge of an axe are crucial factors to consider. Look for an axe with a sharp and precise cutting edge.
The blade should be able to easily cut through wood and other materials without getting stuck or snagged. Additionally, look for an axe with a blade that is easy to sharpen and maintain.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the entire axe is important to consider. Look for an axe that is lightweight and compact, which will make it easier to carry and use.
Additionally, look for an axe with a size and weight that is comfortable for you to use. A heavier axe may provide more power, but it may also cause fatigue and discomfort during extended use.
Understanding the Best Bushcraft Axe Materials
As someone who loves spending time in the great outdoors, I know how important it is to have the right gear. When it comes to bushcraft axes, the material used in the blade can make a big difference in terms of performance and durability.
That's why I decided to conduct a study to compare the effectiveness of different materials used in bushcraft axes.
Carbon Steel
After researching and testing several different options, I found that carbon steel is the best material for bushcraft axes. Axe heads made of carbon steel are known for their durability and edge retention, making them ideal for tasks such as chopping and splitting wood.
It's also relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry on backpacking trips. Overall, I found that carbon steel on a bushcraft hatchet offers the best combination of performance and durability.
About THE AUTHOR
Brittany Melling
Brittany has been in the land business since 2020 when the world was starting to shut down. Since then, we’ve sold to dozens of people from ATV weekend warriors to camping enthusiasts to retired truck drivers. Our inventory spans mostly in the western United States. We’ve been trained by experience, land acquisition courses, and hundreds of hours meeting with county assessors and clerks, zoning officials, realtors, and land investors. We’ve answered hundreds of questions from people regarding the buying and use of land.
Read More About Brittany Melling
