Best Bushcraft Axes

A bushcraft axe securely wedged in the top of a tree trunk stub
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Bushcraft is all about survival in the wilderness, and having the right tools can make all the difference. One essential tool that every bushcraft enthusiast should have in their arsenal is a bushcraft axe. A bushcraft axe is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks, from chopping wood to building shelters to carving tools and utensils. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what a bushcraft axe is, and what to look for when choosing the best one for your needs. Whether you’re an experienced bushcrafter or just getting started, these axes are a tool that you won’t want to be without. So let’s dive in and explore the world of bushcraft axes!


Gerber Downrange Tomahawk Axe

Gerber

Don't leave yourself unprepared during your next bushcraft adventure. Consider adding the Gerber tactical tomahawk axe to your toolkit. Its durable steel body and desert tan G-10 scales on the handle make it a lightweight and resilient option for any task, whether you're cutting wood or peeling bark. The Molle-compatible sheath allows for easy transport, and the integrated prying handle and hammerhead design provide versatile functionality, from self-defense to wilderness survival. The G-10 handle ensures a secure grip without causing blisters or splinters. Don't hesitate to equip yourself with this exceptional tactical survival axe today.

Pros:
  • Made in USA
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Pry bar end
Cons:
  • Price is steep
Key Features:
  • 420 Steel construction
  • Cerakote exterior
  • Included sheath
Buy from Amazon

Two Handed Berserker Viking Bushcraft Axe 19"

CRKT

If you're an outdoor enthusiast or prepper, the CRKT/Viking bushcraft axe is a must-have tool for your next adventure. Crafted from carbon steel, this Viking axe is forged with a rust-resistant coating, making it perfect for any outdoor job. Its lightweight construction means you won't be weighed down during your travels, coming in at just 2 pounds. This versatile axe is capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from chopping firewood to clearing paths in the wilderness to building small trappers cabins. Don't hesitate to add the CRKT/Viking bushcraft axe to your toolkit and take on any challenge that comes your way.

Pros:
  • Only weighs 2 LBS
  • Long handle keeps fingers out of way
  • Durable handle
Cons:
  • Edge could use a sharpen out of box
Key Features:
  • Made from carbon steel
  • Hickory handle
  • Outside coating
Buy from Amazon

Gerber Gear Bushcraft Axe with Sheath

Gerber Gear

Level up your bushcraft axe skills with this awesome axe. This 10" bushcraft hand axe is perfect for tossing in the back of your truck when you go camping. Furthermore, the provided sheath is easy to clip onto your belt, making this a good bushcraft axe to even take on a hike, just in case. With a palm-sized design coming in around 10", you can expect this axe to provide explosive results despite the tiny size. This is due to its already razor-sharp blade which is perfect for making shavings to start a fire, or simply using the blade to cut a rope. You really can't go much smaller than this axe, without bloodying your knuckles, so we could definitely recommend this to our friends at Shaman Mountain.

Pros:
  • Perfect for backpacking
  • Sturdy
  • Lanyard hole for easy attachment
Cons:
  • Only one handed operation
Key Features:
  • Molded rubber handle
  • Finger grooves
  • Included nylon sheath
Buy from Amazon

1844 Helko Werk Germany Rheinland Hatchet

1984 Helko Werk Germany

Bush crafting is a super popular hobby, and there are many tools on the market to help you in your pursuits. But few can compare to the quality and craftsmanship of an 1844 Helko Werk bush crafting axe. Their axes are handmade in Germany with only the finest carbon steel blades and American Hickory handles. Helko Werk's takes great pride in their work, and each axe is finished with a full-grain leather sheath, to protect the razor fine edge. With a blade that is 6.5” long and 2” wide, this bush crafting axe is perfect for larger branches and logs as well, not just the small stuff. The American Hickory handle provides plenty of leverage, while the linseed finish protects the wood from moisture damage, and if it ever does split, you can still fashion a new handle out of surrounding wood to keep going.

Pros:
  • Leather sheath
  • Protective oil included
  • Only weighs 1 3/4 LB
Cons:
  • Steep price point for this handmade axe
Key Features:
  • Handmade
  • Carbon steel
  • American hickory handle
Buy from Amazon


Gränsfors Bruks Bushcraft Hand Axe 9.5"

Gransford Bruks

Bushcrafting is a great way to connect with nature and really get back to basics. Gransford Bruks has the perfect bushcraft axe for you to do just that, no matter what your needs may be. This small 9.5" axe is amazingly lightweight, coming in at only a pound, and its palm-sized design is perfect for taking with you on the go, whether camping or prepping for an emergency. Plus, it comes with a vegetable-tanned leather sheath to protect the razor-sharp blade when not in use. With its precision-forged Swedish steel construction and durable hardwood handle, you can count on this axe not to let you down in the backcountry.

Pros:
  • Quality sheath
  • Durable edge
  • Easy one handed operation
Cons:
  • Included book is in German
Key Features:
  • 9.5" Inches
  • 1.3 LBS
  • Tanned leather sheath
Buy from Amazon

Council Tool Bushcraft Axe 24"

Council Tools

Choose Council Tools for a top-quality bushcraft axe that is crafted with expertise and comes pre-sharpened for immediate use in any outdoor activity. The hickory handle is made of hardwood and offers exceptional impact resistance, ensuring the longevity of your axe. The 2LB steel head is ideal for chopping bigger branches or gathering firewood, and the axe's flat side can also serve as a hammer. Don't compromise on the quality of your outdoor equipment; opt for Council Tools for a dependable and adaptable bushcraft axe.

Pros:
  • Multi functional head
  • Durable steel
  • American made
Cons:
  • Handle grain can be hit or miss
Key Features:
  • 24" American hickory handle
  • American steel
  • 2 LB head
Buy from Amazon

Marbles Camp Axe 15 3/4"

Marbles

The heavy-duty hatchet axe from Marbles is a reliable and sturdy tool that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. This axe, which is made in El Salvador, is designed to withstand the rigors of camping, hiking, and bushcraft activities. The hickory handle and sharp blade provide excellent durability, while the American-made leather sheath protects the axe and your hands from any potential harm. With an overall length of 15 3/4 inches, this camping axe is a versatile tool that can handle most non-major bushcraft tasks. The hole in the handle also makes it easy to attach a lanyard for convenient carrying, ensuring that you never lose or misplace your axe while on the go. Choose the Marbles hatchet axe for a dependable and practical tool that can handle all your outdoor adventures.

Pros:
  • Quality sheath
  • Light steel head
  • Sharp blade
Cons:
  • Steel head can be a degree off
Key Features:
  • 15 3/4" Inch
  • Brown leather sheath
  • Lanyard
Buy from Amazon

Woodmans Pal 2.0 - Multi-Use Axe Machete

Woodmans Pal 

The original design of this bushcraft axe machete was used in WW1, and the design was brought back to life by Woodman's Pal. There are many different things built into this axe, including a shovel, machete, and knife. This makes it perfect to take with you into the bush when you take on new challenges. Featuring a highly durable wooden handle, you will be able to swing this axe easily due to the sleek machete-like design. What we love about these bushcraft axes is the metal used to make them is heat-treated to 1500 degrees, leaving you with some of the best steel possible.

Pros:
  • Made in the USA
  • Included leather sheath
  • Quality instruction manuals
Cons:
  • Sheath belt attachment points can weaken over time
Key Features:
  • Ash wood handle
  • Ergonomic grip with finger grooves
  • Carbon steel blade
Buy from Amazon

Prandi German Style Hatchet Axe

Prandi

Prandi's bushcraft axe is the perfect tool for notching, skinning and cutting small limbs. This German-made axe hatchet features a lanyard hole so you can attach it to your wrist or packs as well so it's easy to travel. The best part about this axe is that it is perfectly balanced and features a durable, stainless steel blade. Whether you're in the woods making a trapper cabin or making tinder, this axe is sure to make your life a whole lot easier!

Pros:
  • Easy one handed axe
  • Great steel
  • Good for smaller brush
Cons:
  • No sheath included just an edge protector
Key Features:
  • 4.25
  • 1 LB
  • Lightweight handle
Buy from Amazon

FAQs:

Videos:

Choosing a bushcraft axe
10 Bushcraft axe skills
Guide to bushcraft axes

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