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Best Camping Hatchets 2023: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

Are you planning for your next camping trip? A good camping hatchet is the most essential thing you will need for a great adventure!

In the simplest terms, a camping hatchet is a smaller version of an axe that is used by campers for a range of activities. It comes handy for a number of different tasks that you may encounter during camping. From chopping wood to hammering tent pegs to protecting yourselves in the wild, this is a tool that does it all!

The best camping hatchet needs to be durable enough for all weather conditions, along with meeting all the needs of the camping trip in terms of weight, size, and budget.

If you are wondering how to identify the best camp hatchets, we are here to help! Here are some of the top picks that you can explore to find out the perfect hatchet that you require. Take a look at the list below!

Contents show

Top 20 Best Camping Hatchets 2023

1. Sog Camp Axe

SOG Tomahawk Tactical Hatchet - Voodoo Hawk Mini Tactical Axe, Throwing Hatchet w/ 2.75 Inch Blade for Survival Sports and Camping Axes (F182N-CP)

If you are looking for a small and lightweight hatchet that is great for all your camping needs then your search ends here! Measuring 11.5 inches in total, the SOG Camp Axe is just the thing you need.

This sturdy and durable hatchet is super sharp and chops down small trees and branches with remarkable ease. Its handle, made from glass-reinforced nylon, offers you a great grip that is just right for your cutting tasks.

Furthermore, the hatchet has a wide hammering surface, making it easy for you to meet all your needs in the absence of an actual hammer. The unique design and top quality materials ensure that it remains resistant to damage even after long and rough use.

Also, it comes with a glass-reinforced nylon sheath which covers the sharp blade to help protect you from accidents!

In spite of being loaded with so many features, the hatchet is quite lightweight, weighing only around 1.01 pounds! And this makes the SOG Camp Axe one of the best camping hatchets that you can ever get!

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • 3.1 inch stainless steel blade
  • Heavy-duty and durable

Cons

  • Quality of sheath is not as good
  • The handle may slip when wet

2. Schrade SCAXE2

Schrade SCAXE2 11.8in Stainless Steel Small Axe with 3.8in Blade and Glass Fiber PA and TPR Rubber Handle for Outdoor Survival Camping and Everyday Tasks , Grey

The Schrade SCAXE2 is among the best camping hatchets due to the multiple features it provides. Much more than a mere hatchet, it is more of a survival tool, especially when you are on a camping adventure!

Weighing only 1.44 pounds, the tool is made to sustain all weather conditions. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion and rust. It is extremely sharp, enabling you to slice a piece of wood within a few strikes!

The handle is designed for efficiency and ensures that you have a great grip while working with it. It also comes with a thermoplastic rubber covering that makes it usable even in wet conditions without any slips.

The most striking feature of the Schrade SCAXE2, which makes it the best camping axe, is an extra-large ferro rod. This is a great addition that greatly increases your chances of survival in case you encounter an unfavorable situation.

The sheath included with the hatchet protects you from any mishaps that may arise from having such a sharp blade. It also comes with a textured hammer pommel, which is excellent for striking nails.

This small but heavy-duty tool is lightweight and very easy to carry, making it a great addition to your camping necessities!

Pros

  • 3.8 inch 3Cr13 titanium coated stainless steel blade
  • Lightweight
  • Comes with a ferro rod inside the handle

Cons

  • Hammer-end is not as durable

3. United Cutlery M48 Axe

M48 Tactical Tomahawk Axe (Black)

Are you on the lookout for the best camp axe that is budget-friendly and made up of high-quality materials? If yes, then you should check out the United Cutlery M48 Axe!

This tool is extremely lightweight, weighing less than a pound, which makes it easy to carry for long durations.

It features a long 8-inch blade that is sharpened on both edges. The wider edge is great for slicing and chopping, while the narrower, pointed edge is perfect as a piercing tool. On the downside, it cannot be used for hammering purposes.

The blade is made of anodized AUS-6 stainless steel, which is quite durable. The handle is crafted from 30-percent fiberglass reinforced nylon and comes with grooves to ensure a good grip. It comes with a nylon sheath for protection.

In short, this is a great tool for campers who want a sharp and lightweight hatchet for some light chopping and slicing tasks.

Pros

  • Super lightweight
  • Nylon-reinforced handle
  • Good grip

Cons

  • Does not have a hammering edge
  • Handle is less durable for heavy-duty use

4. Husqvarna 26″ Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe

Husqvarna 596270801 Wood Axe, Grey

The Husqvarna 26″ Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe combines power with security, making it one of the best options at its price range.

The axe boasts of quality in all the materials used for making it. The axe head is handcrafted, and made of Swedish steel which is among the most preferred material for axes. The blade is extremely sharp, and retains its sharpness even after long-term use.

The hickory handle gives a classy look to the axe. The head is fastened to the handle with the help of both a wooden and a steel wedge. Also, the long length of the handle allows you to make powerful strikes, which makes cutting wood faster and easier.

You also get a leather cover for the edge of the blade that is great as a safety measure.

The Husqvarna 26″ axe is a versatile tool, and performs well for cutting down trees, chopping branches and slicing logs. It can also be used for hammering purposes. The high quality materials and great cutting ability make it one of the best camp hatchets that you can opt for!

Pros

  • Multipurpose
  • High-quality Swedish steel axe head

Cons

  • Comparatively heavier

5. Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Hatchet

What can be better than a hatchet approved by the great adventurer Bear Grylls himself? Yes, the Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Hatchet provides you just that!

This small, lightweight, and super sharp tool is guaranteed to make your camping trip easier. The 3.5 inch blade is powerful enough to help you chop, split and carve like a pro, with not much effort!

The rubberized handle offers you a great grip, and doesn’t slip even in wet conditions. It also comes with finger notches on the upper part of the handle, providing a good hold during more precise work.

The head also has a hammering surface, which, although not very wide, is enough to get your work done. Moreover, the hatchet is just as great for slicing meat and vegetables, so nothing to worry about if you forget to bring a knife!

One feature that puts it a notch above others is that it is a full tang hatchet. The head and handle are not separately joined but crafted into a single piece instead. And that makes it comparatively less prone to breaking even with rough use.

And to put the icing on the cake, it comes with a copy of ‘Priorities of Survival’ Pocket Guide by Bear Grylls! And all this makes it undoubtedly one of the best camping hatchets that you can get!

Pros

  • Tough and durable
  • Free Pocket Guide on Priorities of Survival

Cons

  • The blade may slightly lose its sharpness with the use

6. Hults Bruk Akka Foresters Premium Outdoor Axe

Gransfors Bruks Scandinavian Forest Axe 25 Inch, 430

Searching for the best camp hatchet that can help you survive the toughest of conditions? The Hults Bruk Akka Forester’s Premium Outdoor Axe is just the one for you!

The axe head is made of Swedish steel that is specially crafted for increased durability. The blade is sharp and works great for both rough chopping and more precise work. It also features a hammer surface on the opposite side of the blade.

The handle is made of good quality hickory, which is further treated with linseed oil for added shine and durability. Also, the shape of the handle decreases the chances of the axe flying out of your hands while chopping.

The protective sheath is made of leather and designed with distinctive Swedish decorative motifs, which makes the axe safe to carry on your camping trips!

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Hickory handle with linseed oil treatment

Cons

  • Comparatively heavier
  • Expensive

7. Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe

Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe 19 Inch, 420

If you are looking for a high quality and reliable hatchet that is ideal for your camping trip then we have the perfect tool for you. The Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe is one of the best camping hatchets for felling trees with minimal effort.

The hand-forged high-quality steel blade is razor-sharp and can take on any cutting job with remarkable ease. The wider side of the head can be used as a hammer too.

It features a wooden handle made of hickory, strong, durable and gives it a classy look. The long handle also gives you more power during strikes.

The protective sheath that comes with the axe has a minimalistic design, but is perfect for its intended role, i.e., safety. The Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe also comes with a free original copy of the Gransfors Axe Book, which provides you with all the needed information about your axe.

Pros

  • Super sharp
  • Durable
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Expensive

8. Estwing Sportsman’s Axe

Estwing Sportsman's Axe - 14" Camping Hatchet with Forged Steel Construction & Genuine Leather Grip - E24A

The Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is a small-sized tool that is powerful enough to chop down tough wood without tiring you out. Its unique and heavy-duty design makes it one of the best camping hatchets on this list!

The hatchet is comparatively lightweight, weighing something around 1.86 pounds. It features a 3.25-inch blade, which is sharp enough for all your camping needs. And the wider edge on the axe head makes it a great tool for general hammering as well.

The hatchet is made of high quality tempered steel, which is hand-polished and sharpened. Also, it is crafted from a single piece, so you have less chances of it cracking or breaking during use.

The handle is covered with a lacquered genuine leather grip, which makes it last longer. It also increases the attractiveness of this camping hatchet. The nylon sheath provided with it is heavy duty and does the job well. It also makes it easy to carry by attaching to a belt.

In short, it is a great choice if you need a small but powerful camping hatchet that is budget-friendly.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Heavy-duty and versatile
  • Affordable
  • Grip made of lacquered genuine leather

Cons

  • The lacquered handle can slip if not held carefully

9. Crkt Kangee Tomahawk

CRKT Kangee Tomahawk with Sheath: T-Hawk with Spike, Black Powder Coated High Carbon Blade, Checkered Handle Scales, Molle Compatible Sheath 2725

The CRKT Kangee Tomahawk is a powerful tool that packs in style with performance. It is just the thing you need if you are looking for the best camping hatchet that is compact and multi-functional.

The axe head is designed from SK5 carbon steel, which is tough and durable. Moreover, it is coated with black powder that increases its resistance to corrosion. It also features a spike that can be very useful for piercing and cutting with precision.

The handle is made of glass-reinforced nylon which is light and durable. The handle is curved and textured to enhance grip. At a mere 1.53 pounds, this super lightweight tool is the perfect addition to your camping backpack!

Also, the Boltaron sheath comes with a MOLLE-compatible strap which makes it easy to carry during your trips. Uniquely designed, it makes for a great tool for self-defence as well. And the best part, it comes with a limited lifetime warranty which covers any manufacturing defects!

The CRKT Kangee Tomahawk is a robust tool crafted by the noted designer Ryan Johnson, and its features make it stand out as one of the best camp hatchets that you can get.

Pros

  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • SK5 carbon steel head
  • Lightweight
  • Great grip

Cons

  • The edge can become brittle with use
  • Cannot be used for hammering purposes

10. Fiskars 378561-1004 X11 Splitting Axe

Fiskars 378561-1004 X11 Splitting Axe, 17-Inch, Black/Orange

The Fiskars 378561-1004 X11 Splitting Axe combines a stylish design with the utmost efficiency, making it one of the best camping hatchets available in the market.

Designed for one-handed splitting, this axe comes with the guarantee of being almost unbreakable due to its distinctive design.

The blades are made of forged steel and are super sharp, and are hardened to maintain their sharpness for long. It also features a coating on the blade that reduces friction to give cleaner cuts on wood.

The FiberComp handle is designed to absorb shock, which adds to its performance. The material is lightweight without compromising on strength and durability. The unique insert molded design ensures that the head does not separate from the handle even on heavy impact.

It comes with a plastic sheath that locks over the blade to ensure safety, and also makes it easy to carry. The weight of the tool is about 2.18 pounds, which is slightly greater in comparison to other hatchets.

True to its name, this axe is powerful enough to split a piece of wood in a single strike. On the downside, it does not perform as well for other cutting tasks.

Pros

  • Ultra-sharp blade
  • Great grip
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not as versatile

11. Liantral Camping Axe

LIANTRAL Camping Axe, Fixed Blade Full Tang Survival Hatchet with Nylon Sheath for Outdoor Camping, Hiking, 8.5-in Overall

Looking for a very compact and lightweight hatchet to add to your camping essentials? The LIANTRAL Camping Axe is the best camping hatchet for you!

It features a thin, wide, and extremely sharp blade that is perfect for splitting branches for firewood. It is made of hardened stainless steel and is resistant to corrosion and rust, making it extremely durable.

Adding to its durability is the fact that it is a full tang camping hatchet crafted from high quality material. The handle is made of wear-resistant wood, which gives it a comfortable and secure grip.

The best thing about this wonderful tool is its camping friendly size and weight. It is a mere 8.5 inches in total length, and weights even less than a pound. It makes chopping or carrying it seems almost effortless, and the size ensures that it fits anywhere with ease, without causing any inconvenience!

It comes with a protective sheath made of nylon, which protects you from cutting yourself on the razor-sharp edges of the blade.

Pros

  • Very sharp edge
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Long-lasting design

Cons

  • Not the best option for heavier chopping

12. Pathway North Survival Shove and Camping Axe

Pathway North Survival Shovel and Camping Axe – Stainless Steel Multi-Tool and Survival Hatchet Equipment for Outdoor, Hiking, Hunting, Emergency, Backpacking

The Pathway North Survival Shove and Camping Axe tool set is one of the best camping hatchet combos that can make your camping trip easier! This complete set comes with almost everything that you may need during your adventure.

In addition to a folding shovel and a tough stainless steel hatchet, you also get a multipurpose knife, a fire starter with a whistle and a screwdriver set. Also, there is a window-breaking tool with an inbuilt compass in it! So you are ready to successfully deal with any unfavorable situation that might arise when in the wild.

The hatchet head is made of 3CR13 stainless steel which is super strong and durable. Its blade is tough enough for any kind of chopping, splitting, or cutting job that you may encounter. The handle is made of aluminium alloy which is durable and gives a good grip. It also features a hammering surface.

The shovel has multiple uses. Other than digging or clearing up an area, it is designed with sharp edges on both sides which can double up as a knife and a saw respectively. It also comes with extension bars which come handy while digging deeper pits.

It is also foldable, which makes it easier to clear up and area to set up tents for instance. Powerful and durable, it is among the best tools for any outdoor adventure!

For protection against the sharp edges of the shovel and the hatchet, protective sheaths are also part of the set. These covers fit well on the heads of the tools and make their storage safer when not in use.

And to make it easier to carry, you get a canvas waist bag that fits all of these, and looks stylish as well!

Pros

  • Multipurpose tool set
  • 3CR13 stainless steel hatchet
  • Long-lasting
  • All-in-one shovel

Cons

  • The multiple tools make it heavier to carry

13. Iunio Camping Axe

iunio Camping Axe, Hatchet with Sheath, Multi-Tool, Camp Ax, Survival Gear, Folding Portable Tools, for Hiking, Backpacking, Emergency, Hunting, Outdoor (Black with Bag)

One of the best camping hatchets that we have on this list is the iunio multi-tool camping axe. This awesome tool has all the features needed to make survival in the wild as easy as possible!

In a single hatchet, you get a ferro rod,an emergency whistle, a compass, a safety hammer and a bottle opening and fish scaling tool! Wondering how? Well, the iunio camping axe features a hollow handle, which can be unscrewed to reveal all of its insides.

The best thing about the design of this tool is that you can customize it according to your needs. So you have a hatchet with a shorter handle when doing precise work like carving, and a longer one when you need more powerful strikes for chopping.

The stainless steel blade is moderately sharp, and is good enough for chopping smaller trees and logs. The material is tough and durable, and comes with a hammer on one side of the head.

The handle, although hollow, is quite tough and is crafted to withstand all weather conditions. It also includes a self-adhesive camo tape that can be wrapped around the handle for a better grip. Also, there is space inside the hollow to store small stuff such as first aid or fishing hooks.

The nylon sheath protects the blade when not in use, and also makes it easy to attach to a belt. It also comes with a carry bag to store all the parts, along with some extra space to keep some essential stuff!

All these features make it perfect as an all-in-one camping companion. This is undoubtedly the best camp axe that you can get at a budget-friendly price!

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Built-in survival tools
  • Can be assembled and disassembled to fit your needs

Cons

  • The blade is not as sharp for effortless cutting
  • Quality of the materials could be better

14. Schrade SCAXE10

Schrade SCAXE10 11.1in Full Tang Hatchet with 3.6in Stainless Steel Blade and TPR Handle for Outdoor Survival Camping and Everyday Tasks , Black

The Schrade SCAXE10 is the best camping hatchet for you if you want a compact tool that performs well on a limited budget.

This hatchet features a super sharp 3.6-inch blade that can slick through wood with remarkable ease. It is made of 3Cr13 stainless steel, which is known for its toughness and durability. It can also be used as a hammer due to the hammering pommel on the opposite side of the blade.

The handle comes with a black rubber grip wrapped throughout the length, which ensures that it doesn’t slip while in use. Additionally, it has 4 finger grooves to ensure a more secure hold.

It is made of a single piece of steel, and covered with a rubber grip for easy usage. This adds to its long-life, making it less susceptible to cracking or breaking on impact.

It is small in size, only around 12.5 inches in length, and weighs around 1.37 pounds. This makes it a great tool for carrying around on all your outdoor trips! And the thermoplastic belt sheath accompanying it takes care of all your safety concerns!

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Full tang hatchet
  • 3Cr13 stainless steel blade

Cons

  • Sheath quality could be better
  • Not as great for heavy-duty chopping

15. Prandi German Style Hatchet

Prandi German Style Hatchet - PRA0306TH (with Sheath)

The Prandi German Style Hatchet is the best camping hatchet for you if you value quality over everything else! You are guaranteed to finish all your chopping in record time with the help of this amazing tool.

The meticulously hand-forged head is made from high carbon steel. The blade is super sharp and resistant to corrosion. The wider edge at the opposite end of the blade easily takes care of all the hammering needs that may arise.

The wooden handle is made of American hickory and has a good grip and feel to it. The grip is enhanced by the unique shape of the handle, which makes it easier to make powerful strokes without the fear of the axe slipping out from your hand.

You can choose to buy it with or without a protective leather sheath as per your choice.

Pros

  • Uniquely shaped hickory handle
  • Lightweight
  • Hand-forged axe-head

Cons

  • Handle is not as durable

16. Yeacool Multi-tool Camping Axe

Yeacool Camping Hatchet, Folding Survival Axe, Camp Axes Multitool, with Hammer Sheath,Survival Gear Kit for Hunting, Hiking, Emergency Outdoor

The Yeacool Multi-tool Camping Axe is a total survival kit integrated within a hatchet. This is one of the best options if you are low on space and want a do-it-all tool!

When fully assembled, it looks like just a normal hatchet with a long handle. But as you start disassembling the tubes that make up the handle, you find a number of survival tools hidden within it.

These include a magnesium fire starter, an emergency whistle, a bottle opener, a fish scaler, a safety hammer and a compass. In short, you have all the tools that you might need in a survival situation! Also, the tubes have room for keeping small stuff inside!

The detachable tubes are made of an aluminium alloy, that make it quite sturdy and suitable for rough use. The blade itself is made of tough steel and can take care of all the chopping in a jiffy.

It is lightweight and the protective sheath included with the kit makes carrying it even easier. All in all, this is the best camping hatchet for all the regular campers out there!

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Handle length is adjustable
  • Multi-purpose hatchet

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a carrying bag

17. Rovertac Multitool Hatchet

RoverTac Multitool Camping Accessories Survival Gear and Equipment 14 in 1 Hatchet with Knife Axe Hammer Saw Screwdrivers Pliers Bottle Opener Durable Sheath Gifts for Men Women

Do you want a compact hatchet that packs a survival kit minus the procedure of assembling and disassembling continuously? If yes, then we have got the best camping hatchet to fulfil all your needs!

The Rovertac Multitool Hatchet is power-packed with 14 different tools in one! Other than the hatchet, it includes a hammer, pliers, a knife, a bottle opener, a fish scaler, a saw and multiple screwdrivers to name a few.

All these are folded into the hollow handle and secured with a safety lock to prevent accidents. All of these tools are made of high quality stainless steel and feature black oxidation for improved durability. The handle has a comfortable grip and is oxidized with a red colour, which adds a touch of style!

This budget friendly tool comes with a nylon pouch that can be easily attached to a belt while on the move. And it weighs less than a pound!

Pros

  • Versatile
  • 14 different tools
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Can feel a bit bulky to hold

18. Bravedge 12 in 1 Pocket Hatchet

Multitool Axe, Bravedge 12 in 1 Pocket Hatchet Gifts for Men, Camping Tool Survival Gear with Knife, Hammer, Opener, Screwdriver Kit, Cool Gadgets Unique Gifts for Dad Multi Tool for Camping, Survival

The Bravedge 12-in-1 Pocket Hatchet is among the best camping hatchets which feature additional survival tools with it. This is a great option that works well both indoors and outdoors.

This compact tool is a mere 8 inches in length, but packs a total of 12 tools that come handy for a variety of tasks. Other than the hatchet head, some of the tools include a bottle and can opener, hammer, knife and screwdrivers.

The hatchet features a 3-inch blade that is perfect for slicing, splitting and chopping smaller pieces of wood. Made of stainless steel, it is designed for power and durability. The handle is made of PVC wood grain, which gives it a good grip.

This is a great utility tool that can take care of all your camping requirements. And it is designed like a bigger version of a swiss knife, which adds to its overall appeal.

The blade of the hatchet comes with a rubber cover to protect from any accidental cuts. And a nylon pouch included with it makes it easy to carry with you on all your adventures.

Pros

  • Anti-rust blade
  • Contains 12 different tools
  • Lifetime guarantee

Cons

  • Small size makes it unsuitable for heavier chopping

19. Schrade SCHCOM6CP Full Tang Hatchet

Schrade SCHCOM6CP Full Tang Hatchet and Mini Machete Combo with Stainless Steel Blades and TPR Handles for Outdoor Survival, Camping and Bushcraft

Are you looking for the best camping hatchet and machete combo? We have the perfect product for you here!

Check out this awesome hatchet and mini machete from Schrade, which is sure to blow your mind with their sheer performance!

As with all full tang hatchets, the Schrade SCHCOM6CP is very durable with virtually no chances of the head separating from the handle while chopping. The blade is made of 3Cr13 stainless steel for durability and long-lasting sharpness. The handle is covered with black thermoplastic rubber which helps you retain a solid grip even when wet.

The machete is made of the same materials as the hatchet and has non-slip grooves on the handle for the perfect grip.

The combo includes individual sheaths for both the tools, so you can carry them safely without any accidents.

Both the tools are designed for tough use, and with this combo, you are sure to do all the cutting and chopping with much ease during your outdoor camps.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • 3Cr13 stainless steel blades
  • Full tang body
  • Great grip

Cons

  • Not made for heavy-duty chopping

20. Cold Steel Throwing Axe Camping Hatchet

Cold Steel Throwing Axe Camping Hatchet - Great for Axe Throwing Competitions, Camping, Survival, Outdoors and Chopping Wood, Professional Throwing Hatchet

The Cold Steel Throwing Axe Camping Hatchet is one of the best camping hatchets that you could go for if you want a good quality and affordable hatchet for general camping tasks.

This hatchet combines a moderately lightweight body with high quality materials that makes it perfect for chopping all the firewood you need!

The drop forged carbon steel blade is super sharp and durable, and can split wood in a matter of a few strokes. The handle is made from high quality hickory wood, which is tough and provides a great grip for powerful strokes.

Also, the wider end of the axe-head is perfect for hammering in small nails or tent pegs for your camp.

It features a patent pending locking mechanism to join the head with the handle which is secure and makes changing handles easy as well. For this you only need to loosen the bolts to pull out the handle and tighten them after inserting the new one.

Pros

  • Drop-forged 1055 carbon steel blade
  • American hickory handle

Cons

  • Handle is not as durable as the axe-head
  • Does not come with a sheath

Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Camping Hatchet

Choosing the perfect hatchet may seem much like a chore, especially due to the huge number of options that you can choose from. Moreover, you may tend to overlook some important factors in your hurry to select one.

To help you in making your choice, here are a few points that you can keep in mind while looking for the best camping hatchet, and you are sure to find just the one you need!

1. Weight

The first factor that you need to consider before selecting the best camping hatchet is its weight.

Lightweight hatchets are easy to carry and use and are usually enough for all your general camping needs. But being lighter, it might have a lesser striking power and take longer to chop wood.

Heavier hatchets can feel burdensome to carry and may also tire you out if you have to use them for long durations. But at the same time, it may be more suitable for cutting down larger trees than lighter hatchets.

Therefore, it is essential that you choose your hatchet after determining the type of cutting that you might need to do, depending on your chosen camping location.

2. Size

Size is another factor you must look out for a while choosing the best camping hatchet. While camp hatchets are smaller than axes, they vary greatly in their size and width.

A smaller hatchet can easily fit inside your backpack without taking up much space. Alternatively, it can be attached to your belt without much discomfort. A longer hatchet may be slightly difficult to carry on a belt as it may tend to swing with movement, but can be fit inside your travel bag.

Also, carrying a hatchet by attaching on a belt is fine for short distances but can prove to be difficult if you have to walk for longer durations during your camping trip.

In such cases, it will be better to choose a hatchet after taking note of the free space that you can spare in your backpack for the hatchet, and choose accordingly.

3. Safety

Of course you do need your hatchet to be sharp enough to help you do all the cutting tasks easily. But the sharper the blade, the more chances are of you cutting yourself by accident.

For this reason, before choosing the best camping hatchet, you need to check if it is safe enough for carrying and using.

The first way to do this is to check if it comes with a protective sheath or not. While most hatchets do have a protective covering, many do not. Therefore it is an important point to note while selecting your hatchet.

Also, the type, fit and material of the sheath is also important, since an ill-fitting or a flimsy sheath won’t be providing much protection against any mishaps. And the last thing you want is to hurt yourself while on an adventure, so make sure to choose wisely.

4. Cost

One of the most important factors that governs your choice of the best camping hatchet is your budget. You can find hatchets at both low and high price ranges, with differences in material, durability and versatility.

Handcrafted hatchets are generally costlier due to the efforts that go into its making, but machine made ones are often on par with them.

While the cost also depends on the material used, it does not mean that you cannot get a good quality hatchet at a reasonable price.

Hatchets that use higher quality steel, wood and leather will definitely be costlier. But there are a number of alternative materials that are low cost but play a role in increasing the durability and effectiveness, thus providing you an awesome product at an affordable rate.

5. Durability

The best camping hatchet is one that is long lasting, and does not wear away or break after a few uses.

The durability is largely dependent on the material used, as well as the camping location. For example, a hatchet with a good quality wooden handle is generally long lasting, but the wood may rot if it is kept in wet conditions.

Also, hatchets that are crafted out of a single piece of steel are more durable than one whose parts are joined together.

Some hatchets also come with a warranty, which ensures that you get your product fixed or replaced if the defect is covered within the warranty, so make sure to look out for that too.

Last but not the least, you should ensure that the sheath accompanying the hatchet is also made of a durable material.

Frequently Asked Questions on  Camping Hatchets

Q1. Do I Need A Hatchet For Camping?

While a hatchet is not absolutely necessary for camping, having one with you is preferable for numerous reasons.

One of the most important uses of a camping hatchet is to chop firewood. This can be essential not only for making a bonfire to drive away the cold, but also for cooking purposes.

A hatchet with a thin and sharp blade can also work as well as a knife for cutting fruits or meat if necessary, and also work as a tool for self defence. Many hatchets have a hammer surface which is very useful for securing the tent pegs into the ground.

So in short, having a hatchet while you go camping is definitely a good idea.

Q2. What Is The Best Hatchet?

The best hatchet is one which meets all your camping needs without being too heavy on your pocket. The perfect camping hatchet needs to be durable, versatile and easy to use.

If you want a small and lightweight hatchet which is high on performance, some of the best options you can choose from include the SOG Camp Axe, the Schrade SCAXE2 and the Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Hatchet.

If you prefer a slightly longer handle for powerful striking, you can check out the Husqvarna 26″ Wooden Multi-Purpose Axe, the Hults Bruk Akka Foester’s Premium Outdoor Axe or the Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe.

For a multi-tool hatchet, the iunio Camping Axe, the Yeacool Multi-tool Camping Axe and the Bravedge 12-in-1 Pocket Hatchet are great options that you can look at.

Q3. Are Hatchets Good For Self Defence?

A camping hatchet is a multipurpose tool that is mainly used for chopping wood for a campfire. But it can double up as a self defence tool too if needed.

The shape of the hatchet, with a sharp blade and a long handle makes it much easier to throw than a knife. Also, being heavier than a knife, it can be thrown from a greater distance too. And it is more likely to hit its target since it’s bigger in size as well.

Therefore it can act as a self-defence implement to help protect yourself from wild animals or hostile people while you are out camping in the wild.

Q4. What Should I Look For In A Hatchet?

A hatchet is among the essential tools that you need for a camping trip. Some of the essential features that you should look for while choosing a hatchet is its material, durability, safety, weight and size.

Q5. What Is A Camp Axe?

Camp axes or hatchets are smaller versions of an axe that are ideal for using with one hand. They are smaller in size, lightweight and versatile.

These tools come handy for cutting small trees and chopping branches to use as firewood during camping trips. Also, some axes feature a wider surface which works just like a hammer for putting up tents during camping. Camp axes are not suitable for cutting down large trees or logs.

Conclusion

Hatchets are one of the most essential tools that you need to carry for your camping trip. A good hatchet can not only ensure that you have all the firewood you need for cooking and warming yourselves in the cold, but also comes handy for protecting against predators.

While choosing the best camping hatchet, you need to make sure that your chosen hatchet is perfect for all the functions that you might need it for. Multi-tool hatchets are more preferable from this aspect, since they make you ready to deal with unprecedented circumstances.

Here in this article we have mentioned some of the best camp hatchets that you can choose from. And to help you make an informed choice, we have listed down all their good and bad points too.

While the above options contain hatchets of varying types to cater to all your diverse camping needs, it is recommended that you go through all their features in order to finalize the one ideal for you.