Small Ax Quality

Blaine · Post by **Blaine** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 8:11 am

I don't think I can afford a custom, or a Granfors....So, what department store brand would you get for the best quality? They aren't pretty, but a bullet proof composite handle is probably a good idea....

Les Staley · Post by **Les Staley** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:28 am

Blaine, I like Husqvarna Rifles, have hunted with one for 46 years. Went in to a Husky chainsaw dealer and saw their drop forged axes and hatchets...with no intention of buying anything, walked out with a new pack hatchet. It rides in my fanny pack now. I'll post a picture in a few minutes. Les

jeepnik · Post by **jeepnik** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:32 am

Eastwing. I've used several over the years and all have given good service. It's what rides in my Jeep and work truck. On the plus side if it's lost or stolen (which is what has happened to a couple of mine) you aren't out a bundle.

Les Staley · Post by **Les Staley** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:54 am

Cost around fitybucks.

Les Staley · Post by **Les Staley** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:56 am

Size is good for packing

2ndovc · Post by **2ndovc** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 1:56 pm

I have one of the small Fiskers that's always in my pack when hunting. Light but always sharp and I've
used the snot out of it.

I've been looking at some of the northern European styles lately and there is some
good stuff on knifecenter.com.

jb

3leggedturtle · Post by **3leggedturtle** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 3:04 pm

THanks, nice to know bout the Husquavarna a Fiskars. Fleet Farm ha some Swedish Army hatchets. Nice, but they are heavy. Think they would make a nice "small" camp axe with a longer handle.

Les Staley · Post by **Les Staley** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 4:47 pm

My HUSQVARNA isn't even broke in, disassembled two whitetail does last fall on the last day of the season..worked swell.

FLINT · Post by **FLINT** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 7:06 pm

yes, I was going to say Fiskars. They make really nice little axes and hatchets with unbreakable handles that are NOT fiberglass (I loathe fiberglass for tool handles).

However, that husky hatchet is very very cool looking.

ollogger · Post by **ollogger** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 8:56 pm

Have a Eastwing hand axe with a steel & leather washer handle bout as tuff as it gets
but I really like the looks of Les Staley's Husky!!

Ollogger

MrMurphy · Post by **MrMurphy** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:18 pm

I've had an Estwing for 15 years. Good axe.

plowboy 45 · Post by **plowboy 45** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:47 pm

How bout a 8oz Moore Maker, Matador, TX
I've let mine get a little rusty

plowboy 45 · Post by **plowboy 45** » Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:49 pm

Or maybe a 12oz double bit Moore Maker

Mich Hunter · Post by **Mich Hunter** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 1:51 am

If you want gransforsbruks quality at half the price, Husqvarna or Wetterlings is where it's at hands down. The big question that you need to ask yourself is what you plan to do with it. Each axe (when talking about higher dollar axes) has a different profile made for a specific task. When you get it to the Fiskars or Eastwings, they have all around profiles that are experts in non, but get the job done.

I have had the Eastwings, but I do not like their profile or balance. I also own two Fiskars but their steel is soft and the handles cannot be replaced. Their handle profile is terrible compared to most wood handles for ergonomics. For packing weight, they cannot be beat though. I use a Fiskars hatchet to break many a deer sternum. My personal favorite are the Husqvarna and Wetterlings with the carpenters profile. Razor sharp (enough to cut hair) swedish steel heads chop like non other and make a HUGE difference. You can't get that kind of edge with most cookie cutter store bought axes.

Rusty · Post by **Rusty** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 5:14 am

MrMurphy wrote:I've had an Estwing for 15 years. Good axe.

They work for me.

RIHMFIRE · Post by **RIHMFIRE** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 5:34 am

Eastwing.....solid ax that holds its edge

the other day I was so made the chainsaw would not start....I pulled out the eastwing
and in five swings, the five inch trees was down...

Les Staley · Post by **Les Staley** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 9:42 am

My grandpa Staley born 1882 was a deer hunting fanatic even before the outdoor channel. He had his brother-in-law who was a blacksmith make him this small hatchet for splitting pelvis etc. this would ride in the back pocket of his pants. Looks like it was made from a farriers rasp. The apple is just for scale, but I may have it for breakfast.

Stan in SC · Post by **Stan in SC** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 10:07 am

Boy Scout official hatchets.
64 years ago when I was ten years old my parents gave me an official boy scout hatchet for my birthday.
I have used the heck out of it. Practiced throwing hatchets at trees with it when I was much younger (not recommended for long handle life).It still has original handle and I still use it all the time. I have cut a LOT of trees and brush with it. I'll bet it cost less than $10 back in 1951 cause my parents didn't have a lot of money. Just my recommendation.

Stan in SC

Griff · Post by **Griff** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 10:30 am

I use a small shingle hatchet, similar to this:

Just how small are you thinking? I also carry a full size single axe in the truck for larger work. There are a couple of intermediate options listed in: http://www.outdoorlife.com/blogs/surviv ... -tomahawks.

Old Ironsights · Post by **Old Ironsights** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 10:48 am

Another vote for Husqvarna or Moore Maker (the Viking in me is partial to the double bit).

Les's Farrier Rasp (looks like a coarse Draft rasp) is really, really cool...

Grizz · Post by **Grizz** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 11:08 am

the intended use is the big factor.

I use my knife to split the sternum. It is soft and with a sharp knife the weight of the carcase is almost enough to make the cut bottom to top.

I'll add fotos later but I have several small axes/hatchets. The utility is surprising. Daughter gave me a Mora hatchet. Good steel. Plastic hafting. Used it for several years as a kindling hatchet beside the wood stove.

I found a "Trail Blazer" hatchet at Swain's for cheap, like maybe 20 bucks, maybe less. It also has a plastic haft with a thin stainless blade, abt 3mm. I assumed that it would be no good and had very low expectations. I was very surprised. That thin blade chops like a crazy man, splits very well, and is the most comfortable thing to whack wood with. There is no shock to the hand. It cuts thru alder as well as any small ax I've used, and is very comfortable with no back lash or shock whether choked up or gripped long at the knob.

The mora, otoh, has a vicious recoil, a large shock component that hurts the hand and wrist and arm. It has a fatter blade with a fatter bevel than the other tool, and does not split kindling nearly as well. It also doesn't fall or limb nearly as well.

Side by side usage gives the "go" to the Canadian model. I have not found a use for the mora that excels the function of the blazer. I plan to change the mora's bevel to help it out, but don't think it will resolve the differences. I finally found the Canadian maker's mark on the Trail Blazer.
If I ever stumble on more of them at sale prices I will load up. Perfect gifts! I still prefer it to the Mora for anything requiring hard whacks. The handle on the Mora is WRONG for that blade. May my ancient Scandi relatives pardon me.

The trend in "bush knives" is toward heavier thicker blades so they can do axe duty. But there are times when the thin blade will work much better than the thick one, and these two hatchets illustrate this. And seriously, a hatchet is much better at chopping if you're making fire and shelter. It's a mistake to underestimate the thin knives. I use a thin mora for breaking down cardboard boxes. It works better than my slightly thicker belt knife and way better than a hatchet. back to the purpose driven edge thing.

For splitting the pelvis? I use a recipsaw with a 10" blade. We actually used it in leu of dismembering with the knife because, well, when they're frozen it's the only way, and when they're warm the saw is still faster. I can move meat to the kitchen sink faster than you can bone it out, and it makes processing 4 or 5 animals an easy chore. No chopping necessary.

So far I have only ever stropped the blazer's blade, I have no idea how hard or soft the steel is, but it is still fit for duty and rides alongside my seat in the van. you know, in case I have to cut the seat belt or bust out a window . . .

wecsoger · Post by **wecsoger** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 4:51 pm

Anyone with comments on the Condor line? They make couple different types, also with various machetes and rustic looking camp knives.

With any luck I'll be down by Smoky Mountain Knife Works end of September, they one my list for a quick look-see and fondle.

Post by **Chuck 100 yd** » Sun Aug 23, 2015 7:55 pm

There is a guy on YouTube who buys old axes from flea markets,garage sales ,etc. and restores/ re handles them. Old US made tools were mostly high quality and with new wood and some cleaning, you can have a great hand axe for just a few bux. I have found them for $1 at garage sales and new hickory handles are inexpensive. The Stihl dealership I retired from replaced axe / maul handles. I did around a dozen a month myself.

Reminds me of Grandpa's old axe. He said it was the best axe he ever owned. In 50 years he only replaced the handle twice and the head once.

mav · Post by **mav** » Mon Aug 24, 2015 6:04 pm

Bought a Council Tool Hudson Bay axe a couple of years ago. So far so good.

http://www.counciltool.com/product.asp? ... tem=20HB28

Made in USA

mod71alaska · Post by **mod71alaska** » Mon Aug 24, 2015 9:24 pm

The Snow and Nealley axe made in Bangor, ME. Highly regarded throughout the northern New England woods.

http://www.amazon.com/Snow-Nealley/b/re ... 26+Nealley

Paladin · Post by **Paladin** » Mon Aug 24, 2015 10:27 pm

jeepnik wrote:Eastwing. I've used several over the years and all have given good service. It's what rides in my Jeep and work truck. On the plus side if it's lost or stolen (which is what has happened to a couple of mine) you aren't out a bundle.

+1

Blaine · Post by **Blaine** » Tue Aug 25, 2015 10:54 am

I have a butt-load of Cabela Points....I think it's time to go shopping...
Those leather-handled Estwing are quite good looking...

Blaine · Post by **Blaine** » Tue Aug 25, 2015 6:34 pm

I got the Gerber 16" Camp Ax...made by Fiskars....

Molasses · Post by **Molasses** » Wed Aug 26, 2015 2:46 pm

I don't know anything about this one, but it's sure small. Dainty, even. Looks almost like a kid's toy.

Buddy of mine found it at a garage sale. I ended up buying it off of him.

Lefty Dude · Post by **Lefty Dude** » Wed Aug 26, 2015 3:31 pm

My trail/Camp Axe is a Western W10 made in the USA, Boulder Co.. It was a 50th Birthday present from my Best Friend. That was 27 years ago and it is still going strong. Similar to the Estwing. The piece has a full steel Head/shank with rosewood grip and aluminum butt.
Light weight and packs well. Has been on many Deer & Elk hunts in my day pack.

Old Ironsights · Post by **Old Ironsights** » Sun Aug 30, 2015 8:54 am

BlaineG wrote:I got the Gerber 16" Camp Ax...made by Fiskars....

I have one of the little Gerbers. It holds a small knife in the handle.

It's OK, I guess, but I like a more rounded bit profile and will probably get a MooreMaker soon. (There's a Gransfors dealer in town... but... no.

Pete44ru · Post by **Pete44ru** » Sun Aug 30, 2015 5:42 pm

.

I've always liked the Marble's Safety Axe - They're made in either a 10-1/2" or 11-1/2" size.

.

Old Ironsights · Post by **Old Ironsights** » Sun Sep 06, 2015 11:04 am

My two small Axes...

The Gator Combo

The Myth

I like the bit profile of the Myth better. I can use it like an Ulu.

Malamute · Post by **Malamute** » Sun Sep 06, 2015 1:18 pm

I have a small boy scout hatchet I reset the handle on. It took epoxy, but it was salvageable. (wax the inside of the eye first). I mostly use it for making kinding for the woodstove. I have another one for a project. They turn up at yard sales and junk/antique stores and sometimes online. It seems a popular past time to redo older axes on the bushcraft forum.

If youre going to be camping where theres porcupines, I've heard they like chewing on leather handles. Dont know if its true or not.

Blaine · Post by **Blaine** » Sun Sep 06, 2015 1:40 pm

I gave the Fiskars (Gerber?) 16" Camp Ax a workout yesterday. Took lots of big chunks, and split them into small chunks for a nice, small fire where we had a semi-in-the-sticks picnic yesterday. I like to keep the fire small, and in the big Jumbo Joe after grilling dinner. It met all expectations. Next up, an electric Stihl Chain Saw so I can make chunks to split.

Rusty · Post by **Rusty** » Thu Sep 10, 2015 5:54 am

wecsoger wrote:Anyone with comments on the Condor line? They make couple different types, also with various machetes and rustic looking camp knives.

With any luck I'll be down by Smoky Mountain Knife Works end of September, they one my list for a quick look-see and fondle.

I have a Condor Nesmuck knife. It stays scary sharp. Yes I cut myself with it. They are not finely finished all over but they are right everywhere that counts.

Bronco · Post by **Bronco** » Thu Sep 10, 2015 11:07 am

I like my Marbles double bit hatchet that I have had for years, grunt work on one side , shave with the other side .

John

mark · Post by **mark** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 12:47 am

"Small Axe ?"

Please specify

The grain of the handle is important.

Cheers Mark

crs · Post by **crs** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 9:41 am

+1 for Eastwing.
Always had one since I was a teenager.
It is there when needed and comes with leather head cover with belt loops.

Marvin S · Post by **Marvin S** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 12:37 pm

2Hawks.net has lots of nice options if you want something a little different. I have the Woodsman

Sixgun · Post by **Sixgun** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 12:49 pm

I must have 20-30 hatchets around here.....all common brands.....Stanley, Plumb, Sears, miller falls, ......I leave in the Jeeps, barn, woodpile, all.over...just like my guns....when I need one, it's right there.

I'd spend the least amount of money as possible.....They are all the same, made from tool steel.....

Why in the world anyone would spend a hundred dollars on a hatchet and then loose it in the leaves in beyond my thinking. Seems like everyone has to be a DuPont or a Rockefeller anymore....the best!..the fanciest!....the most expensive!....pelosi! Who gives a F. .......Go to a flea market and pick em up for a fin.

Besides, I still have my boyhood hatchet I bought when I was 12, a Sears, along with my dad's hatchet collection.----6

wm · Post by wm » Sun Mar 03, 2019 1:49 pm

I've had my best results buying at flea markets, yard sales, rummage sales, estate sales and the like. My current go to hiking hatchet is a 1960s "Bridgeport boy scout" hatchet measures 11-/2 " long overall the head measures 4-3/4 " wide, the cutting edge measures 3 " wide. I am not sure of the precise weight but its probably similar to a framing hammer. Since I'm not felling trees and just cleaning up limbs for small warming fires when hiking it is enough.

Previously I've used Ames, Collins, True Temper, Winchester, Marbles, Craftsmen, Plumb, and Stanley and some nameless ones with wood handles and a Eastwing all from the first half of the 20th century. None disappointed me. Still have some of them, but most of them have been gifted. I sent a box with 8 of them to a enighbors kid who was In Iraq in 2005. That was a interesting conversation with the postmaster I can tell you! Reportedly he and his commrades used them for various chores from opening doors to making firewood to clearing brush. I like to think a couple of those old hatchets are still serving somewhere doing something worthwhile for some of Uncle Sams Misguided Children.

Wm

yooper2 · Post by **yooper2** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 6:37 pm

I have a littel hatchet made by Collins Axe that somebody gave me. Good piece of steel but the blade was awful thick, thinned it down and it is now a wonderful tool.

Eric

RIHMFIRE · Post by **RIHMFIRE** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 9:39 pm

Estwing is in my choice during hurricane clean-up

Paladin · Post by **Paladin** » Sun Mar 03, 2019 10:27 pm

jeepnik wrote: ↑Sat Aug 22, 2015 9:32 am Eastwing. I've used several over the years and all have given good service. It's what rides in my Jeep and work truck. On the plus side if it's lost or stolen (which is what has happened to a couple of mine) you aren't out a bundle.

+1

JerryB · Post by **JerryB** » Mon Mar 04, 2019 10:01 pm

I have an Estwing that my father inlaw gave me close to 50 years ago. It is just the right size to carry and always sharp.

Bullard4075 · Post by **Bullard4075** » Wed Mar 06, 2019 1:34 am

Interesting posts.

Plowboy45 · Post by **Plowboy45** » Wed Mar 06, 2019 12:48 pm

This is an old one, the Moore maker still get the job done