I bought a Estwing Tomahawk last for camping in the motorhome, splits firewood into kindling.

I also have the Estwing Tomahawk. Tough and priced right. I keep it in my car.

The Fiscar Finland is around $30

For splitting firewood into smaller kindling I would recommend a larger knife or machete that can take being struck with wooden objects. They would be more useful for other things than a hatchet too.

quote:

Originally posted by 220-9er:
For splitting firewood into smaller kindling I would recommend a larger knife or machete that can take being struck with wooden objects. They would be more useful for other things than a hatchet too.

Few years ago a member suggested I buy an Ontario SP8 to baton. Thing is a tank and built to last and it won't ruin your main edge. That and a Silky KatanaBoy/GomBoy/PocketBoy are great alternatives to chopping tools.

Best bang for your buck at $20, it's hard to beat the Marbles. I bought 3 of them a few years ago for me and my 2 boys.

https://www.smkw.com/marbles-camp-axe

quote:

Originally posted by old dino:
I have the Gränsfors Bruk small forest axe (hatchet) :

https://www.gransforsbruk.com/...rs-small-forest-axe/

I am very pleased with this axe (hatchet).

I was gifted one of these last year and it is a thing of beauty. Almost too nice to use...almost.

I would not have paid the price they are going for, I have used Eastwing a great deal and think their 16" hatchet is a great piece of kit. Especially if you take a file to it and thin out the blade a bit.

One thing I would say is a small axe is better...and normally safer to use. I have a Husky camping axe that is really quite nice and not too big.

I have had an Estwing for more than 30 years. Can't beat it for durability.

If you want something hand forged and a little different.
https://hbforge.com/
I have their ship builders hawk that I use for camping and hiking chores. It's top quality and doesn't chip even when you accidentally swing it into a a rock.

Garrett Wade has some offerings:

https://garrettwade.com/axes-and-clearing-tools/

with a hatchet you can do anything. It truly is an amazing piece of kit. I would suggest a compromise. Old Hickory Forge is going to be at Blade this year and I know several other makers will also be bringing hatchets and axes as well. (forging hammers and tools as well). Maybe pick one up from them.

Anyway, good hunting

quote:

Originally posted by dave7378:
For spitting wood, these are great.

Kindling Cracker Firewood Splitter

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/pr..._title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Those are back savers. Anybody thinking they're gonna be Charles Bronson in The Magnificent Seven and split wood all day....you need to consider one of these. Make the investment, your back will thank you.

quote:

Originally posted by YooperSigs:
I also have the Estwing Tomahawk. Tough and priced right. I keep it in my car.

Yep, me too.

quote:

Originally posted by 1967Goat:
Best bang for your buck at $20, it's hard to beat the Marbles. I bought 3 of them a few years ago for me and my 2 boys.
https://www.smkw.com/marbles-camp-axe

This is a good choice! ^^^^^^
The most inportant thing for a 'hatchet' is handle length, and how it balances in your hand. Equally important is how easy you can sharpen it. The 'weight' of the head determines how well it 'chops'. The "Hudson Bay" style is good for belt or pack. Otherwise, a double bit axe is the true workhorse (they do come with a 12 inch handle).