TAB toolkit advice - Looking for a new hatchet

Spruce1

Hi all:  I'm looking to replace the inexpensive (under $25) hatchet that we keep in our camper with something of higher quality. Is there a brand or model that you'd recommend?  We use it exclusively for splitting wood for kindling. The hatchet we have now seems to dull quickly and doesn't split word very effectively. After doing a search of the forum I see that lots of members recommend a hatchet as part of your toolkit but didn't see any references to which ones work well or ones to avoid. My preference is to keep the price under $150 or so. Thanks!!

Verna

I have wanted this Fiskars splitting axe, but I don’t use campfires.  I have a number of Fiskars Garden tools and I’m sure this will last a long time. Amazon has different sizes if this is not an appropriate size for you.

Travelin3D

There are many sources for decent hatchets out there, but if you're looking for something you won't find at the hardware store or home center, check out Garrett-Wade. I've had one of their Swedish axes for many years - great stuff on their site.

www.garrettwade.com

ericnliz

@Spruce1, I've found the ones with a wide head (more wedge) seem to work the best. I prefer one with a metal handle for durability. Try either Home Depot, Lowes, or a good hardware store with a good selection. I personally sharpen mine at least once, or twice a season. I find either a grinder, or a lawn mower blade file sharpen the best. My preference of the two methods is the file, but that's just me & I also carry an axe as well. While you're at the hardware store, see if you can find a splitting maul...not the one with a handle, just a good metal wedge type. I carry two because some of the hardwood rounds I split take quite a bit of effort without the wedges. I think I paid $20.00 for mine, and it came with a sheath as well.....but that was 20+ years ago. I'm sure you can find a good one for the price you described above.

jkjenn

I use the well-made Finnish Fiskars axe, too.

ChanW

I actually use my boy scout axe! Circa 1967!

(I'd have to agree with the Fiskars recommendation.  I have their loppers and they're nice quality.)

rfuss928

Very similar to the Fiskars is the Estwig Fireside Friend.  I have used one of these for many years.

https://www.amazon.com/Estwing-E3-FF4-Fireside-Splitting-Cutting/dp/B00DT0PEUE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1525639148&sr=8-3&keywords=estwing+maul

Homebodyatheart

I use my dremel to sharpen blades regularly. Works well! For smaller blades I use a whetstone. Old Girl Scout training is still very useful!

ScottG

Those are nice hatchets--think I'm gonna add one to the shopping list to replace my lightweight cheapo model!

On a related note, I also carry a dead blow hammer. In addition to being useful for pounding awning stakes and occasionally persuading stubborn trailer hitches, it can be used to turn a small hatchet into a quiet makeshift splitting wedge.

Spruce1

Thanks all for the recommendations!  I don't know that I would go wrong with any of those suggested but I've got it narrowed down to the Fiskars and the Garrett Wade hatchet.  The dead blow hammer is a good addition too!

Homebodyatheart

@ScottG, thanks to a suggestion from @Dalehelman I upgraded from stakes for my awning to lag screws and my power drill. It makes life easier especially when the ground is hard! I have two sets, 7” and 10” depending on the ground. 

ScottG

That is a pretty cool idea! I've cursed more than a few tent stakes that just...wouldn't...go...in.

Something would have to get jettisoned to make way for the power drill, however. And--that reminds me--I need to order some batteries that will actually hold a charge for more than a day...  :-/

MuttonChops

Spruce1 said:

I'm looking to replace the inexpensive (under $25) hatchet that we keep in our camper with something of higher quality.

LOL,

Well my 46-year-old Craftsman is still doing just fine.
Purchased it to carry in my first ever new truck back in 1972. Lots of camping, hunting trip travels over five vehicles . . . works great just need to resharpen it from time to time . . .

Cannot beat Sears Craftsman, too bad it could soon be xyz Craftsman.