Best Camping Axe: Top Picks for 2024

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a camping axe. A camping axe is a versatile tool that can be used for chopping wood, clearing a campsite, and even self-defense in emergency situations.

When it comes to choosing the best camping axe, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of blade. A sharp, durable blade is essential for efficient chopping and cutting. The second is the handle. A comfortable, non-slip grip is important for safety and ease of use. Finally, the weight and size of the axe should be taken into account. A lightweight, compact axe is ideal for backpacking, while a heavier, larger axe may be better for car camping.

After researching and testing several camping axes, we’ve identified the top contenders for the title of “best camping axe”. We evaluated each axe based on its blade, handle, weight, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, our top picks will help you find the perfect camping axe for your needs.

Best Camping Axes

When it comes to camping, having the right tools can make all the difference. One essential tool is a camping axe. A good camping axe can help you gather firewood, clear a path, and even help with shelter building. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best camping axes on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a first-time camper, we’ve got you covered.

Estwing Sportsman’s Axe

If you’re looking for a durable camping axe that can handle all your outdoor chopping needs, the Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is a great choice.

Pros

• The axe is forged in one piece, making it incredibly durable and long-lasting.
• It’s versatile enough to chop logs, small trees, and branches, as well as split firewood and kindling.
• The heavy-duty ballistic nylon sheath protects the hand-sharpened cutting edge, so you can store it safely.

Cons

• The genuine leather grip may not be comfortable for everyone, especially if you’re using the axe for extended periods of time.
• The axe is relatively heavy, which may be an issue if you need to carry it long distances.
• The blade may need to be sharpened more frequently than some other camping axes.

This camping axe is perfect for those who need a reliable and durable tool for outdoor adventures. The one-piece forged construction means that it can handle even the toughest chopping tasks, while the ballistic nylon sheath keeps it safe when not in use.

The Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is also versatile enough to handle a variety of different tasks, from chopping logs to splitting firewood. And with its genuine leather grip, it’s comfortable to hold and easy to use.

However, the heavy weight of the axe may be an issue for those who need to carry it long distances. And while the blade is sharp out of the box, it may need to be sharpened more frequently than some other camping axes.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality camping axe that can handle all your outdoor chopping needs, the Estwing Sportsman’s Axe is definitely worth considering.

SOG Camp Axe- Compact Camping and Survival Hatchet/Hammer Tool with Sheath and 3.1 Inch Bushcraft Axe Edge (CH1001-CP)

If you’re looking for a versatile and lightweight camping axe, the SOG Camp Axe is worth considering. With its compact design and durable construction, this axe is perfect for chopping wood, pounding tent stakes, and breaking down tinder.

Pros

• The stainless steel blade is sharp and durable, making it easy to chop through wood and other materials.
• The textured GRN handle is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
• The included sheath is made from hard-molded glass-reinforced nylon, which helps to protect the blade and keep it safely secured when not in use.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the sheath can be difficult to attach or remove, which can be frustrating when you need to quickly access the axe.
• The axe is relatively small and lightweight, which may not be ideal for users who need a larger or more heavy-duty tool.
• The blade may need to be sharpened or honed periodically, especially if you use the axe frequently or for heavy-duty tasks.

Overall, the SOG Camp Axe is a solid choice for anyone who needs a compact and versatile camping axe. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just need a reliable tool for outdoor activities, this axe is sure to come in handy.

KSEIBI Wood Axe

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable camping axe, the KSEIBI Wood Axe is a great option.

Pros

• The forged steel blade is durable and efficient for splitting and chopping wood logs.
• The lightweight 14″ handle provides perfect balance and power for increased swing speed and chopping power.
• The ergonomic design allows anyone in your hiking or camping group to effectively swing the hatchet for chopping wood and clearing brush.

Cons

• The handle may be too short for some users who prefer a longer handle.
• The axe head may require frequent sharpening for optimal performance.
• The lacquered finish may wear off over time with heavy use.

This axe is multi-use and can be used for splitting, survival tools, yard work, chopping, gardening, outdoor, throwing, and camping. The dual camp hatchet head can be used as a splitting axe and back flat hammer, perfect for driving stakes and on wildlife.

Sharpening the blade is essential for optimal performance, and the accurately ground edges make it easy to maintain. The anti-slip and shock reduction handle provide a comfortable grip, even during extended use.

Overall, the KSEIBI Wood Axe is a reliable and versatile camping axe that is perfect for anyone looking to chop wood and clear brush on their next outdoor adventure.

NedFoss 15″ Hatchet

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable camping axe, the NedFoss 15″ Hatchet is a great choice.

Pros

• The forged high carbon steel Hudson Bay axe head is heat treated and quenched 0.6″ from the cutting edge, then tempered for maximum edge retention and toughness, ensuring durability and creating sharp splits.
• The optimized handle geometry, with its curved handle, is more ergonomic at specific tasks and provides a more natural grip for the hand. The curved handle bushcraft axe is better suited for continued use, as it helps to reduce fatigue in the wrist and forearm.
• The small forest axe handle is made of high-quality beech wood for more safety and a firm grip. The stable and balanced camping axe head with double steel rings allows the hatchet head and handle to become one unit.

Cons

• The NedFoss 15″ Hatchet is quite heavy, which may be a drawback for some users.
• The handle is too thick for some people, even those with larger hands.
• The quality of the finish is not great for the cost of the product.

The NedFoss 15″ Hatchet is a cool handmade axe that is sharp right out of the box. The full grain leather sheath is great, and the beechwood handle seems durable and attractive. However, the hatchet is quite heavy, which may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, the handle is too thick for some people, even those with larger hands. Finally, the quality of the finish is not great for the cost of the product.

Overall, the NedFoss 15″ Hatchet is a good choice for those looking for a reliable and durable camping axe.

Edward Tools Wood Splitting Maul 17” – 3 lb. Axe and Sledge Combined – Forged Steel Head Hand Axe – Splitting Axe Splits Wood Better Than Camp Axe or Hatchet – Kindling Splitter – Rubber Sheath

This is a great camping axe for anyone who wants to split wood quickly and efficiently.

Pros

• The sharp, fine grain steel blade with weighted head makes chopping wood quicker and easier.
• The ergonomic fiberglass handle is shock-resistant and has a rubberized grip, making it comfortable to use for long periods of time.
• The rubber sheath included with the axe provides safety and protection when carrying it around.

Cons

• The blade may need immediate sharpening when first received.
• The steel seems to be easily bent.
• The seal around the base of the head of the handle could be better.

This camping axe is perfect for anyone who needs to chop firewood or kindling. The design of the wood splitting maul allows for wood to be split twice as fast as traditional camp axes and hatchets. The weighted head makes chopping wood a breeze and the ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to use.

The rubber sheath included with the axe provides safety and protection when carrying it around. The sharp, fine grain steel blade with weighted head makes chopping wood quicker and easier. The ergonomic fiberglass handle is shock-resistant and has a rubberized grip, making it comfortable to use for long periods of time.

However, the blade may need immediate sharpening when first received. The steel seems to be easily bent and the seal around the base of the head of the handle could be better.

Overall, this is a good camping axe for anyone who needs to split wood quickly and efficiently.

WEYLAND Survival Hatchet & Camping Axe with MOLLE Sheath

If you’re looking for a versatile camping axe that can handle a variety of tasks, the WEYLAND Survival Hatchet & Camping Axe with MOLLE Sheath is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• MOLLE ready & attaches well to a backpack / bugout bag
• Multiple cutting edges make it great for kindling splitting & camping
• Versatile hand axe perfect for carving wood for shelters, traps & bushcrafting

Cons

• Not fit for heavy duty chopping
• The box may appear to have seen some damage upon arrival
• Some may find the handle material to be less durable than other options

This camping axe is designed to be the most versatile hand axe, making it perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. It’s MOLLE ready and attaches well to a backpack or bugout bag, making it easy to carry while hiking, backpacking, or camping. With multiple cutting edges, this hatchet is great for kindling splitting and camping, and can even be used for splitting wood or as a tactical throwing tomahawk.

One of the best things about this camping axe is its versatility. It’s perfect for carving wood for shelters, traps, and bushcrafting, and can handle a variety of other tasks as well. The stainless steel blade is strong and durable, and the nylon sheath and MOLLE clip make it easy to carry.

While this camping axe may not be fit for heavy duty chopping, it’s definitely a great option for those who need a versatile hand axe for camping and other outdoor activities. The box may appear to have seen some damage upon arrival, but the product itself is strong and durable. Some may find the handle material to be less durable than other options, but overall this is a great camping axe that’s definitely worth considering.

1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Pack Axe

If you’re looking for a reliable camping axe that can handle light splitting and cutting work, the 1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Pack Axe is a great choice.

Pros

• Handmade in Germany with exceptional quality
• Lightweight and compact for easy portability
• Comes with a full grain leather sheath and Axe Guard protective oil

Cons

• May not be suitable for heavy-duty chopping tasks
• Expensive compared to other camping axes on the market
• Some users may prefer a longer handle for increased leverage

Crafted from C50 high carbon steel, this axe head is drop forged by hand and designed to last. The grade A American hickory handle is sanded to a smooth finish and treated with boiled linseed oil for added durability. The included full grain leather sheath and Axe Guard protective oil help to keep the axe in top condition.

Overall, the 1844 Helko Werk Germany Traditional Rheinland Pack Axe is a solid choice for camping and backpacking trips. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, while its high-quality materials ensure that it will last for years to come.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best camping axe, there are several features to consider. The following factors can help you choose the right product for your needs:

Type of Axe

There are different types of axes available for camping, including hatchets, hand axes, and felling axes. Each type has its own unique features and is suitable for specific tasks. Consider the type of camping you will be doing and the tasks you will be performing to determine the best type of axe for your needs.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the axe are important factors to consider. A heavier axe may be more durable and better suited for heavy-duty tasks, but it may also be more difficult to carry. A lighter axe may be more portable, but it may not be as durable as a heavier one. Consider the size and weight of the axe in relation to your camping needs.

Blade Material

The blade material is an important factor to consider when choosing a camping axe. The most common materials used for axe blades are carbon steel and stainless steel. Carbon steel is more durable and holds an edge better, but it requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust, but it may not hold an edge as well as carbon steel. Consider the blade material based on your camping needs and maintenance preferences.

Handle Material

The handle material is another important factor to consider when choosing a camping axe. Common materials used for axe handles include wood, fiberglass, and metal. Wood handles are traditional and comfortable to grip, but they may require more maintenance. Fiberglass handles are lightweight and durable, but they may not be as comfortable to grip. Metal handles are strong and durable, but they can be heavy and uncomfortable to grip. Consider the handle material based on your camping needs and personal preferences.

Other Features

Other features to consider when choosing a camping axe include the shape of the blade, the length of the handle, and any additional features such as a sheath or hammerhead. Consider these features based on your camping needs and the tasks you will be performing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best camping axe for splitting wood?

The best camping axe for splitting wood is one that has a sharp blade and a sturdy handle. Look for an axe that is made of high-quality materials and has a good balance. A camping axe with a longer handle is also ideal for splitting wood.

What is the best camping axe for the money?

The best camping axe for the money is one that provides excellent value for its price. Look for an axe that is made of durable materials and has a good balance. The Fiskars X7 Hatchet is a popular choice for its affordability and quality.

What are some reviews of the SOG Camp Axe?

The SOG Camp Axe is a popular choice among campers and outdoor enthusiasts. Many reviewers praise its durable construction and comfortable grip. However, some users have reported that the blade can become dull quickly and may require frequent sharpening.

What is the best backpacking hatchet?

The best backpacking hatchet is one that is lightweight and compact. Look for a hatchet that is made of high-quality materials and has a comfortable grip. The Gerber Gear Freescape Hatchet is a popular choice for its portability and durability.

What is the best overland axe?

The best overland axe is one that is versatile and can handle a variety of tasks. Look for an axe that is made of high-quality materials and has a comfortable grip. The Council Tool Woodcraft Pack Axe is a popular choice for its durability and versatility.

What is the difference between a camp axe and a hatchet?

A camp axe is typically larger and heavier than a hatchet. It is designed for heavier tasks such as chopping wood, while a hatchet is designed for lighter tasks such as splitting kindling. A camp axe usually has a longer handle and a larger blade, while a hatchet is more compact and easier to carry.