I have to admit I'm biased toward Estwing. I grew up using Estwing products and have never been dissatisfied. I have used their hammers, masonry tools, and geologic tools (picks, gadpry bars, crack hammers etc) and love them all. I have never used their axes/hatchets, but given my satisfaction with their products I can only conclude it would be a very good, tough tool for the money. I also know that while their stuff is super tough and durable it may be soft enough that it would require more sharpening than the gransfors bruks or Wetterlings. I think it is time for me to get some Estwing axes or hatchets to try out.