Best Bushcraft Axe Review and Buying Guide

A bushcraft axe is a universal tool that can be useful for performing numerous actions and in a wide variety of situations ranging from conducting everyday life in a country house to an emergency. You can have a compact axe that is convenient to take with you when hiking or camping, and that is suitable for splitting small logs or a large, heavy outdoor axe with a razor-sharp edge that is suitable for felling trees and splitting wood. In addition, you can always keep a felling axe as a survival tool even if you live in a city apartment. Who knows what might happen tomorrow? In any case, mentioned above, you will not find a tool more versatile and more suitable than a bushcraft axe.

In this article, we give information about the types of bushcraft axes that are presented in the market and important details that are worth paying attention to. Moreover, after reading it, you will become a real expert and will know everything about how to choose the best bushcraft axes depending on your needs and goals: cutting down trees on large plots or splitting firewood for your private home.

Best Bushcraft Axe to Choose

Let us get right to the point without further ado. Probably, if you are interested in this topic, the choice of the best bushcraft axe will definitely be relevant for you. Fortunately, you do not have to spend a lot of time searching and studying information all over the Internet, as we have collected the main data for you.

Here is our selection of the best bushcraft axes for all occasions.

1. Hults Bruk Kisa Felling Axe

Despite the rather long handle, the total weight of the tool is less than 3 pounds, so even a beginner can handle this bushcraft axe. It is ideal for shrubs and medium-sized trees, so any work in the garden will become much easier with this reliable helper. There is no special rubber coating on the handle, but it is not necessary. The manufacturers decided not to varnish the wood, so you can hold the hatchet firmly even with one hand.

Thus, the Hults Bruk bushcraft axe is suitable for splitting wood. Choose this model if you appreciate the perfect balance between the high-carbon steelhead and the handle and a concise design.

2. Estwing Long Handle Camper’s Axe

The long handle axe by Estwing is a unique hatchet that stands out among the axes offered in the market. Firstly, this model attracts attention with an unusual appearance: the hatchet is completely made of steel, and the handle is much longer than the ones of other hatchets. Secondly, the unique design makes the tool reliable and functional. You can be sure that the head of the axe will not budge even with the strongest blow since the entire axe is cast from steel. At the same time, there is a plastic insert at the end of the handle that allows you to securely fix the tool in your hand.

This bushcraft axe can be used not only to fell small trees and shrubs but also to make wood stakes and even cut down large trees. Pay attention to this unique model of an axe if you want to have a fairly large and powerful tool.

3. Schrade Stainless Steel Small Axe

If you often go hiking and are looking for a hatchet that you can take with you on your next trip, you will definitely need to consider this stainless axe by Schrade. This is the smallest tool on our list. The length of its handle is only 12 inches, and the weight is only 1.5 pounds. Therefore, this hatchet can fit even in the smallest travel backpack. Moreover, the developers thought in advance that you might want to fix the hatchet on your belt. Another important feature is a shock reduction grip made of fiberglass that covers the entire handle. This special coating provides convenience and safety.

Thus, this tool stands out among the other bushcraft hatchets for portability, lightness, and small size. This is an ideal option for those who never sit still and conquer new places all the time.

4. Brufer Hatchet Axe

The Brufer hatchet is a classic model that has collected the best characteristics of hatchets. It is the perfect size so that it can be used both when cutting down small trees on the site and when hiking. The classic model combines a sharp head and a wooden handle. However, there is only one drawback associated with this design: the connection of the two parts is not extremely strong, so the head may eventually loosen and come off the handle. However, it is easy to fix to use the tool again.

The main advantage of this axe is that you can get the best quality for a small price. This is exactly the case when every cent will pay off in the future.

5. Estwing Sportsman’s Axe

The Sportsman’s axe by Estwing is perhaps the most original and elegant model of a bushcraft axe that can only be imagined. A perfectly thought-out design also leads to the reliability of the tool. Having bought this hatchet, you will never face the problem of loosening the head of the axe or breakage. The axe is forged from steel and is a solid structure. For the convenience of buyers, there are leather washers on the handle that avoid slipping and provide a perfect grip on the palm and the surface of the axe. The stunningly sharp hand-cast axe blade cuts through even the toughest wood.

The main advantage of this bushcraft axe is its unsurpassed design, which looks amazing and provides maximum durability and reliability of the tool.

6. Marbles Camp Axe

Do you pay attention only to the quality and sharpness of the blade when choosing an axe? Are other characteristics not as important to you as reliability? Then you will definitely like this option. The developers of this axe have spent a lot of time and effort developing and testing a certain type of blade. The sharp edge is made so that it is longer compared to other models of axes and is characterized by a smooth bend. Thus, a blade that remains sharp for a long time was created. Unfortunately, the developers have spent too much time developing the blade, so the handle is not perfect. It may seem too narrow and not heavy enough for this axe, which may affect the usability of the tool.

Therefore, the Mables camp axe is an ideal option for those who appreciate the sharpness of the axe blade above everything else. However, we recommend that you try to hold this hatchet in store in advance to make sure that it is convenient for you to hold it.

7. Condor Tool & Knife Greenland Pattern Axe

The next model of the axe that we will tell you about may seem very ordinary and no different from the previous options considered. However, this is not the case. We present to you perhaps the most durable hatchet on our entire list. With its lightweight (about 2 pounds) and relatively short wooden handle (16 inches), this is a very powerful tool. With the help of the Condor axe, you will be able to deliver precise blows with its incredibly sharp steel blade. With this tool, you will be able to cope with any task, whether it is pruning artisanal branches or felling small trees.

Choose this hatchet if you have to perform many complex and diverse tasks with this tool. In addition, enjoy the comfort and safety when using it thanks to the leather sheath and a special hole in the handle for securing and carrying the axe.

8. Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe

Above, we advised hatchets for amateurs; now it is time to talk about a more expensive tool for professionals. We present you the Gransfors bruks axe, which is a universal tool. Use it for cutting down small and medium-sized trees, chopping firewood, or pruning branches. Despite its sturdy and long handle, the total weight of the axe does not exceed 2 pounds, which makes it easy to use for any task and carry with you as a wildlife hatchet. Having paid quite a large sum for the gränsfors bruk hand hatchet, you will definitely not regret it. You will enjoy the convenience and quality of materials.

The last detail that we want to note is the sharp cutting edge and the axe. The Gransfors Bruks axe comes sharpened right away, so you do not have to worry about it yourself. Do not worry about safety; it is provided by a genuine leather sheath.

9. Snow & Nealley Hudson Bay Axe

Are you looking for an axe that will last you for many years? Do you not want to spend money on buying a new splitting axe every once in a while? Then this axe by Snow & Nealley will be the best option for you. The sharp steel blade is hand-forged to serve you for decades. It will be easy for you to sharpen it after a while and continue to enjoy the ease of use of this axe model. The only disadvantage that we can find in this hatchet is the insufficient grip of the hand and the handle. The handle is completely varnished, which can make it quite slippery. However, it all depends on your personal preferences.

Are you looking for the best investment for money? Do you value durability? Then we recommend buying this hatchet.

10. CRKT Woods Forged Carbon Steel Axe

We have left another awesome axe for the end of our list. The CRKT hatchet can really be called the best hatchet, thanks to its perfect design and high functionality. The axe head with a sharp curved blade was designed to make deep cuts in any tree. With this tool, the work will seem easy to you. You will be able to cut down even large trees with just a few blows with the axe.

Thus, this is another versatile and reliable axe on our list. Compared to other splitting axes, it is also very light, which makes it portable and suitable for use while hiking.

Bushcraft Axes Explained

You may ask yourself, what is a bushcraft hatchet, and how does it differ from an axe? Or maybe it is the same thing? Actually, no, there are several key differences.

Let us start with the fact that the hatchet is smaller in size, its head is not so big and heavy, and the handle is much shorter than that of the forest axe. Why would you need such a bushcraft hatchet? Obviously, these small axes may be easier to carry and use because of their weight, but this is not the main thing. A hatchet was created like this for a specific purpose: making precise and deep axe cuts in the wood with its razor-sharp edge.

In addition, unlike other axes, hatchets are so small and portable that they can easily replace knives. If you are interested in the topic of survival, you probably know that it is vital to have a sharp and multifunctional knife with you. However, why not consider a hatchet? If you need to make a lot of cuts in the tree, the hatchet will be more convenient to use thanks to the long hickory handle and the protruding cutting edge that penetrates deep into the tree.

Bushcraft Axes Benefits

We have already mentioned that it is better not to use a bushcraft axe to fell trees. Then what can they be used for? What are their advantages?

1. A special wedge shape of the cutting blade

The first thing you should pay attention to is the unique design of the axe heads. Due to its convex shape, it is perfectly sharp and thin. Consequently, a bushcraft axe copes with splitting logs, especially small ones, easily. One has only to swing and strike an accurate blow and a deep cut will be made immediately.

1.Portability

The main reason why a bushcraft axe is called the best device to take with you on a hike is its portability. Lightweight, not a long handle, a special leather case that fits on a relatively small axe head — all this makes carrying a bushcraft axe easy and hassle-free. Take it out of the backpack at the right moment and put it away to continue your journey.

2. Perfect for one-handed use

If you do not often chop down trees, then most likely, your hands will get tired quickly while holding a large axe. Moreover, an ordinary forest axe usually has to be held with two hands just to raise it high enough, swing and hit exactly the desired place. Unlike a regular-sized axe, a small hatchet is also convenient for holding in one hand. Thanks to the convenient handle, balanced design, and lightweight of the tool, even beginners will cope with long-term work with this type of axe.

3. A large variety of tasks

It seems that a standard-sized axe is the most versatile option. However, this is not so. If you are a fan of handicrafts, work with lumber, or are simply obsessed with woodwork, then it is the hatchet that will become your indispensable assistant. An ordinary axe blade is too rough so a tool is not suitable for all these tasks. On the contrary, one small axe can be used in various situations.

4. Axe Durability and reliability

Last but not least is how reliable and long-lasting the hatchet is in use. Fortunately, you do not have to worry about that. The hatchet is designed so that the cutting edge remains sharp for a long time, the perfect balance is maintained when hitting wood, and the head of the bushcraft axe is firmly fixed on the handle and always stays in place.

Best Bushcraft Axes Buyers Guide

It is worth noting that the axe is a fairly simple tool consisting of only two parts. Hence, you should pay attention to the axe’s handle and carbon steel head. Let us take a look at the two components of hatchets in turn.

When choosing among the numerous axe blades, it is easy to get confused. However, the choice is easier than you might first think. We recommend buying a hand-forged steel hatchet. These are the most reliable blades that will stay sharp for a long time.

The handle of the axe is also important. Try several options and determine which handle is convenient for you to hold. Regarding materials, it is recommended to choose a wood handle. For example, you can choose a hickory wood. If you want to make sure that the axe will not slide away, then choose models with a rubber grip so you will be sure that the axe always lies securely in your hand. In addition, to ensure safety, make sure that a protective leather sheath is attached to the axe, which is put on the head. You can also purchase it separately.

Therefore, consider the entire axe and the head weight to make sure that you will be comfortable working with an axe before buying it. Moreover, we recommend choosing a well-balanced axe.

Entrust the Choice of a Bushcraft Axe to Professionals

Above, we have presented a list of several reliable axes. Why can you base your choice of the best bushcraft axe on our advice? You can be sure that we recommend only high-quality tools as we test them all. Moreover, we collect honest reviews from numerous websites and compile informative text for our readers.

Whether it is a small forest axe or other tools for everyday life or survival in an extreme situation, we always create honest and complete reviews to make it easier for you to choose any necessary device.

Frequently Asked Questions — FAQ

What size of an axe should you use for bushcraft purposes?

For splitting wood and making precise and deep cuts, it is recommended to use a bushcraft axe. The length of the 20-inch hickory handle is optimal, but a slight deviation from these parameters is also acceptable. In addition, remember that the axe head should not be too heavy.

Is a hatchet or axe better for camping?

If you are a fan of camping or long-distance hiking, you may need an axe. In this case, the best choice that you can make will be to purchase a hatchet. Felling axes will only make your backpack heavier due to the huge and heavy axe head and may prove useless. On the contrary, hatchets are light and versatile. A hatchet can even be used instead of a survival knife.

Do you need a bushcraft axe?

If you are interested in handicrafts, like to keep your garden in order, or often go hiking, then a bushcraft axe will be an indispensable tool for you! Moreover, bushcraft axes have sharp blades so that you can accurately chop up even frozen wood.

What makes a good bushcraft axe?

The best bushcraft axes are those that are convenient to hold in your hand, weigh a little, and have a sharp cutting edge. It is also worth making sure that you buy an axe with a steelhead and a wooden handle.

How to choose and mix bladed tools?

In fact, this choice is individual. You should consider the goals, the amount of free space in your backpack, and the weight you can bear. However, a great solution may be to take one or more tools for multiple tasks. For example, the best bushcraft hatchet is quite versatile and also lightweight.

How to sharpen a knife for preppers?

The easiest way to sharpen hatchets is a whetstone. Sometimes just a few movements are enough to restore the sharpness of the steelhead of your axe. By the way, this method can also be used while sharpening a survival knife. Survival knives’ blades can also be blunted, but it is easily fixable.

How to use an axe for bushcraft?

A bushcraft axe is a multi-purpose axe that can be used for bushcraft or survival. The axe bit is suitable for cutting small logs. All you need to do is accurately strike a branch or log with a hatchet so that it goes deep into the tree and makes an incision.

How to make a bushcraft axe?

In fact, you can make a hatchet from the available materials. A sharpened stone can be used instead of the axe blade. Of course, this homemade axe will not be as sharp as a hatchet with a head made of high carbon steel, but it is a great tool for survival in an unforeseen situation.