Questions/Opinions about the Crash Axe

adrock1978

adrock1978

Joined
May 30, 2009
Messages
2,538
I'm considering a Crash Axe for a user hatchet. Its definitely going to get much use. It measures just over 12". Most hatchets I have are just over 13". Is the crash an effective size for typical use? Ok next question: Coated or satin? Given the fact that SR101 tends to rust, would a coated axe be better? Obviously some care and maintenance is in order. I think the satin looks better, but is it practical for a user hatchet?
 
It is a "Rescue" Hatchet, a little thin for really busting wood, but it limbs well. You might be better off with a more traditional hatchet if you are really going to use it for "typical" use.
 
I love my crash rat. It is S-7, not SR-101, so rust is not as much an issue.
I know it's not really for chopping wood, but mine does great at it! And I get the biggest grin using it...lots of fun :thumbup:

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You guys are a bunch of Debby Downers... :D. Making me reconsider my search. Its shaped like a hatchet and has a sharp edge. Would I really regret getting it as a small camp axe? Well, I did ask for opinions.

Thanks for the pic cjpgeyer. It looks like you showed that log who was boss.
 
adrock1978 said:
You guys are a bunch of Debby Downers... :D. Making me reconsider my search. Its shaped like a hatchet and has a sharp edge. Would I really regret getting it as a small camp axe? Well, I did ask for opinions.

Thanks for the pic cjpgeyer. It looks like you showed that log who was boss.
Click to expand...

You know what, it works fine as a small camp axe, let's face it how many of us here work in jobs where we need an entry tool, I don't. Sure I could keep it tucked in the trunk of my car in case I ever need it or store it at home next to the fire extinguiher in case I need it but.... I like using it so I take it camping, beat the crap out of it, throw it (not great but I can stick it fairly consistantly) and have fun with it. That is what these are for. Take the Waki, really are we ever going to battle zombies... no, a big axe would be a lot easier to take a tree down with but we still use them because it is fun. I say grab one and don't look back, you will not regret it. :thumbup:
 
It might work "ok" as a tool for chopping wood, but if that is going to be its main use, IMHO, I think you would be better off with a Granfors Bruks. It's much, much better for chopping wood and you'll have $ left over to take the Mrs. to dinner. However, if unpacking a car and setting up camp is not enough work for you, then yes, the SR will give you an outlet to use that extra energy and time. Me? I'd rather be out exploring or hob-nobbing with my family or friends. YMMV.
 
Funny, I just saw one sell for over 400.00 on fleabay. Hope you didn't buy that one.

I have one and it feels good in my hand. Never used it for cutting anyone out of a car, but it cuts wood fine.

I would say jump on one for a camp axe.

Les.
 
I love swamp rat and I think thier little axe looks awsome and would be alot of fun. But, as far as a real usable camp hatchet, I don't think it would be much good. A more traditional hatchet would be able to hammer and have enough heft to split small stuff. And if it got stuck, you could baton it on thru with a rock or something. I would (and have) put my money on a gerber camp hatchet, or even an eastwing. Save your money and get a good swamp rat knife to go with it and you would not go wrong.

Just my .02

JT
 
Good stuff guys. Ok, the decision is mine at this point. It would make sense to have something with a flat or hammer side opposite the blade. Maybe i'll pick one up anyway.
 
Use mine as a true rescue tool. Keep it in the driver side rear door of the truck. Used it regularly last winter to pop open frozen car doors.

BTW, I've seen some that were sharpened to knife edge:confused: Just don't understand that. I keep mine ith as close to the original angle as possible. Good enough for The Swamp, good enough for me.
 
Do not get discouraged, you might be happy with it. I use mine almost exclusively as a fire pit tool, the spike snags logs quite well, and the blade trims off loose limbs, twigs, etc. I would not split with it though, .It just gets stuck. You can start a wedge with it. You can make wedges with it. It is just not dedicated to the task. That does not mean it isn't fun.
 
If you are using it near the house or camping from a vehicle it would probably be very useful. If you are hiking, consider something more traditional and carry more water or beer or ammo, whatever. I wouldn't want to pack it around for a matter of days but for a day trip it wouldn't be to excessive.
 
You want a hatchet, buy a Granfors Bruks or a Wetterlings. If you want an emergency, safety tool to ride in your car or something fun to throw, get a Crash Rat.

I have both.

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CarTools.jpg
 
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Guyon said:
You want a hatchet, buy a Granfors Bruks or a Wetterlings. If you want an emergency, safety tool to ride in your car or something fun to throw, get a Crash Rat.

I have both.

Axes2.jpg


CarTools.jpg
Click to expand...
I've heard of both of those, the GB and the wetterlings. The GB always gets good reviews. Is the wetterlings cheaper? Got a good online source for either? That crash axe is still pretty cool. I think I might just get one.
 
The crash rat is in a plum tree that was taken out in a storm. I used it to take down the big branches.

I use the flat of the head to hammer. I also like being able to choke up on the handle. More pics!

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