Short Axe/Hatchets: The best under $75

[cm_bushman]

I'm getting my gear together for a proper kit for long-term camping here in Appalachia--and just looking in general--for some of the best short axes or hatchets around. As stated in the description, I'm on a budget of about $75, but I may be willing to pay a premium if I thought there was just cause. Thus, I'm not really in the market for a GB or Council piece, I'm just not that comfortable to shell out $200+ for an axe right now.

I know of Estwings, and I just don't know about the handles. I prefer wood, but I'm looking for something I can pack around and would get the most use out of, but would not leave me wanting for a larger axe. The smaller the head the better, since I'll be hoofing this thing around as it's primary use. I've seen a few double-bit axes with a splitting wedge on one side and a felling/chopping grind on the other. I'm very interested in these and was wondering who and where I could get them, if they can be had under budget?

I have a few old axe heads lying around as well, and will likely just put some short handles on them if I can't find any reason to make a purchase. If I ended up doing this, can you guys recommend me a good supplier of quality wood handles in various lengths?

 

[Square_peg]

I have a few old axe heads lying around as well, and will likely just put some short handles on them if I can't find any reason to make a purchase. If I ended up doing this, can you guys recommend me a good supplier of quality wood handles in various lengths?

Bing! Bing! Bing! Bing! Bing! There's a winner!

You probably already have what you need. The key phrase I read in your original post is this, "long-term camping here in Appalachia". Given that I'll skip recommending a hatchet and suggest you get (or re-hang) a boy's axe. There's no shame in a man using a boy's axe. They're a very handy size and really can do it all better than anything other single axe. It'll fell, it'll split, it'll do bushcraft. And it will outlast a Hudson's Bay axe.

And by refurbishing one of your existing axes you'll get up to speed on axe care - something you need be good at anyway.

BTW - I'd love to see pics of you old axe heads.

 

[Square_peg]

Oops! I forgot the axe handle resources. A couple good ones are House Handle, J Hollywood Edge (resellers of Tennessee Hickory handles) and Link (found at Ace hardware stores and other places).

For a 'use it as you get it' handle I'd recommend House Handle. They're pretty damn good just as you get them. If you want to customize your own handle then look to Tennessee Hickory. Their handles are of premium stock but come a little too fat for optimal use. But with a little spokeshave work they're the best. Ace's Link handles are decent but I seldom see a really great grain among their full size axe handle offerings. OTOH I've found several nice cruiser and boy's axe handles at Ace. Do-It-Center is hit and miss. You might find a decent handle there.