I am curious about the user differences in these axes/hatchets. Does the X13 cut better, does the X14 cut well and split, and is the N7 just an X14 with a Hickory handle?
Or given ~$50, is there a better option in a somewhat light hatchet that cuts well and will do very light splitting (i.e., basically feather sticks and wood shaving for a campfire)? Unlike most online reviews, I am not looking to baton huge stuff, fell trees for an emergency shelter, and similar stuff. I want more than a huge blade can offer and less than a real axe with less weight and bulk. Various hardware store "carpenter" hatchets around me look like cheap imported pooly made options for ~$60 or cheaper, all steel handle things. I wondered about the old Vaughn hatchets that used to be common, but they seem to have gone bankrupt at some point, and now are super spendy.
Some sort of belt carry is desirable, and it "must be packable" in a reasonable-sized backpack with a couple of drinks, snacks, and maybe a sandwich, and is currently a 23L Mystery Ranch TRI-ZIP option specifically.
TIA,
Sid
Or given ~$50, is there a better option in a somewhat light hatchet that cuts well and will do very light splitting (i.e., basically feather sticks and wood shaving for a campfire)? Unlike most online reviews, I am not looking to baton huge stuff, fell trees for an emergency shelter, and similar stuff. I want more than a huge blade can offer and less than a real axe with less weight and bulk. Various hardware store "carpenter" hatchets around me look like cheap imported pooly made options for ~$60 or cheaper, all steel handle things. I wondered about the old Vaughn hatchets that used to be common, but they seem to have gone bankrupt at some point, and now are super spendy.
Some sort of belt carry is desirable, and it "must be packable" in a reasonable-sized backpack with a couple of drinks, snacks, and maybe a sandwich, and is currently a 23L Mystery Ranch TRI-ZIP option specifically.
TIA,
Sid