So I'm headed to the Sierra Nevada's (camping, fishing, hiking, etc) in a couple of weeks and wanted to get some recommendations for camp axes. What are some good ones? What are your experiences and should I go multi-tool axe? I have found some reviews on other sites but wanted to get a different perspective here at BF. I'd like to keep the price around $50 or less.
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Best Camp/Hike Axe?
- Thread starter median
- Start date
Sounds like a great trip you have planned there. I've used some of the Fiskars products in the camp axe role and they perform flawlessly. Notable mention goes to my ancient Boy Scout axe by Bridgeport. That axe has a solid steel shank and is tough as nails. If you could find one of those I'd bet you'd like it in the field.
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- Dec 15, 2007
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Depending where you're heading in particular, you might find little need or restrictions on using a hatchet or ax. I have a couple Wetterlings which are traditional in design. I almost never have a need for them though as a Gerber pruning saw and Fallkniven F1 handle most ax tasks better for me.
Median,
If you want to buy new and stay around 50.00- I would look at Council Tool- Boys Axe or Hudson Bay axe. I have the Husqvarna Multi Purpose Axe and really like it for 65.00. "Camp Axe" - usually means about a 1.75-2.50 head and 24-28" haft.
I have the desire for a Council Tool Velvicut Boys Axe but they are pricey.
I also like the Fiskars but only have experience with the shorter hatchet.
Bill
If you want to buy new and stay around 50.00- I would look at Council Tool- Boys Axe or Hudson Bay axe. I have the Husqvarna Multi Purpose Axe and really like it for 65.00. "Camp Axe" - usually means about a 1.75-2.50 head and 24-28" haft.
I have the desire for a Council Tool Velvicut Boys Axe but they are pricey.
I also like the Fiskars but only have experience with the shorter hatchet.
Bill
- Joined
- Feb 23, 2011
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- 834
I'd lightly sand down the handle to see the condition of the wood. You may or may not need to re-hang it.
http://www.househandle.com/products.html
Link brand handles are carried by hardware as well as seed and feed stores by Seymour Manufacturing.
http://www.seymourmfg.com/replacement-handles/replacement-handles/
I also find handles in small country stores and flea market made locally. Often handles need some fitting and maybe slimming. An internet search inquiry can lead you to videos on how to fit the head and finish the handle.
Bill
Link brand handles are carried by hardware as well as seed and feed stores by Seymour Manufacturing.
http://www.seymourmfg.com/replacement-handles/replacement-handles/
I also find handles in small country stores and flea market made locally. Often handles need some fitting and maybe slimming. An internet search inquiry can lead you to videos on how to fit the head and finish the handle.
Bill
Now you get into to "magic of collecting" 
Older made in USA Nicholson or Black Diamond marked Bastard file and a Smooth file. Then a good axe puck like a natural stone Gransfors Bruks or a newer Lansky. If you had a belt grinder, they are good. Just keep contact near the edge very short and dip in water frequently to cool. It is easy to change the temper and soften the edge with a power tool.
Bill
Older made in USA Nicholson or Black Diamond marked Bastard file and a Smooth file. Then a good axe puck like a natural stone Gransfors Bruks or a newer Lansky. If you had a belt grinder, they are good. Just keep contact near the edge very short and dip in water frequently to cool. It is easy to change the temper and soften the edge with a power tool.
Bill
- Joined
- Feb 3, 2006
- Messages
- 8,250
I use a medium/fine Nicholson bastard file to set the edge and sand paper on a strop for sharpening. Same as I use for every blade.
Like was said above though. You'll be in the Sierras in the middle of summer. Probably not going to need the axe. Have fun though.