Hatchet/Axe Size

[soccergod04]

I'm looking to get a hatchet or small axe for backpacking and short term camping and was wondering what sizes you guys prefer. By size I mean both the weight and the length of the handle. Thanks a lot!

 

[bob bowie]

Look for a "Boy's axe" or a "Hudson Bay" type with a 26-28" handle. That seems to be the best size for general light to medium axe work.

Much handier than a hatchet, less cumbersome than a full size axe.

 

[sketchbag]

I second that intermediate sized 2-2.5lb axe, sometimes called "cruiser" weight/type. Theyre just big enough to comfortably swing like a regular axe, which makes all the difference when felling a tree or splitting wood.

 

[Wabajack]

For backpacking, the Fiskars axes are great, very lightweight. I also like Gransfors, but they really only come out in late fall through to early spring.

 

[sketchbag]

Ox head (a german company) also makes very good quality axes.

 

[Foilist]

I second that intermediate sized 2-2.5lb axe, sometimes called "cruiser" weight/type. Theyre just big enough to comfortably swing like a regular axe, which makes all the difference when felling a tree or splitting wood.

There's an article in the latest issue of Backwoodsman that advocates this as the biggest axe if you are going to be carrying it. The article suggested a heavier one if staying put in one camp. The article was about remote, long term bush living in northern Canada.