So I Need A New Hatchet.....

BP_

BP_

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Looking for advice on a hatchet. I'm liking what I read about the GB Wildlife hatchet a lot, for reference of general size/weight guidelines. Any thoughts on that one in particular? I'm definitely not heart set by a long shot, any recommendations on brands or makers?

I plan on carrying it either on my side, or on the outside of my pack if I'm planning on more than a day or overnight trip.

Most of its use would be the regular run of the mill stuff, I don't intend to beat the hell out of it. I live in the Midwest, and it will spend the majority of its life in this area (Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas), with a few trips to Colorado occasionally.

As for price, I would say around $200 or so at the most. I have a few nice folding knives at around that price point, and I'm either going to trade or sell one to fund this little project. Thanks guys!
 
"So I need a new hatchet'. This begs the question: what happened to your old one?
 
300Six said:
"So I need a new hatchet'. This begs the question: what happened to your old one?
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lol nothing happened, I have been lugging around and not really using a Wally World cheapo and it's time to get something I can actually get some use out of, that is of some actual quality.
 
bloody_pawprint said:
lol nothing happened, I have been lugging around and not really using a Wally World cheapo and it's time to get something I can actually get some use out of, that is of some actual quality.
Click to expand...

In that case, I even more strongly recommend something like the Husqvarna or the Council Tool hatchet. Both are a huge step up in quality and function, and %90 as good as the GB hatchet for 1/4-1/3 the price.

http://www.counciltool.com/product.asp?pg=product&item=20HCT14C
 
jblyttle said:
In that case, I even more strongly recommend something like the Husqvarna or the Council Tool hatchet. Both are a huge step up in quality and function, and %90 as good as the GB hatchet for 1/4-1/3 the price.

http://www.counciltool.com/product.asp?pg=product&item=20HCT14C
Click to expand...

I like the idea of that Husqvarna, seems like a decent option. I also want something that is going to last, I like to put my tools to use and be able to rely on it every time I need it.
 
Honestly, I have been growing more and more fond of my little Fiskars hatchet. It's light, small, and tough as nails, but when it is well sharpened it can throw chips well above its apparent weight. I'm not a huge fan of the fawn's foot shape at the bottom of the model I have, as prolonged use as a chopper sometimes causes blisters. but it is still an admirable little tool for very little weight, and the thing can take a real beating!
 
Yeoman & Company Camp Axe, 1045 SAE and the cutting edges are induction hardened to 40-55 HRC, at least as of 2012. Search Yeoman & Company under striking tools. I don't have one, but heard about it on BF. Maybe a deal????
 
If you want the Wildlife Hatchet and you are willing to spend that much for a hatchet then I would go with the Wildlife. Certainly that guy on YouTube who breaks knives has proven that they will stand up to abuse, though so will any quality hatchet.
 
well I don't necessarily feel as if I HAVE to spend that kind of coin on a tool, but I also know the age old saying "you get what you pay for." now, by no means does this apply to every situation, especially tools, but my lack of knowledge of hatchets tends to lean me more toward that way of thinking, at least initially. I may be completely wrong, that's why I asked.

I actually have a friend with a Fiskars hatchet, and I agree it's a decent tool for the coin, although I just didn't like the overall "feel" of it when I tried it out.

I'll have to check out that Yeoman & Co. this afternoon as well. like I said, I came in with an open mind just because of my lack of knowledge about this particular kind of tool.

I understand there is a lot of personal preference when it comes to selecting the "right tool for me." I also, though, consider that there will be some better than others, and it's seeming like there is quite a price gap between the models suggested, and the model I suggested. any ideas as to why? I'm not quite sure I understand the difference between a $40 hatchet and a $150 hatchet (besides the age old saying, which I'm finding out may or may not even be true concerning hatchets).
 
This is only my personal opinion but the way I veiw GB axes is more of a luxury item. That is to say you are partly paying for things like the name, having the makers initials stamped on the axe, a hand fit haft, and sharp ready to use from the factory. Some of these things are nice, while others add nothing to the functionality of the axe. That is why I say if you want one then why not? They are good axes and so there is nothing wrong with owning one IMO. That said I take the stance of "they don't make them like they used to" and so most of my axes are old steel. It's a personal preference. In my case though I have to deal with some use, even abuse already on my axes, imperfections, sharpening, adding handles, and buying or making sheaths. Not a great option if you want something ready to use from the factory.
 
i own a Husqvarna hatchet, some say the finish is not good on the sharpening but it sure doesnt prevent it from chopping wood efficiently and the price is right. my only complain about it, is that its a bit unweildy for a small hatcher, i dont know why, maybe its the size of the handle, but thats just nitpicking, its a great hatchet.
 
A couple years ago I picked up a council tool Hudson bay 18" and it's been a great addition. It gets used daily about 5 months a year. Good quality and very comfortable.
 
I would get the hudson bay BMC I have in my one thread. Overall lightweight, can be used for somewhat bigger projects, hatchet work, shaving work, etc. Easy to carry, but gives you slightly more options including 2 hand use if needed be.
 
Snow & Nealley Penobscot Axe for $65.00 delivered. Make sure it's the current 100% USA made axes from Smyrna, Maine...
 
Heck, why not find a nice Swedish or USA-made head, pick a nice handle and hang your own. I could buy multiple Hults, GBs, GB, SAWs, etc., but I get more enjoyment out of refinishing/restoring/rehanging axes/hatchets myself vice buying a new one. That said, that Husky Carpenter's Axe is slicker than heck and I'm not sure you can do better at the $60 pricepoint....
 
I already have a Wetterlings Expedition hatchet along with a Kershaw JYD 2.2 in my cart on Amazon ready to go for after Christmas when I get my money. As well as a necklace for my girlfriend.
 
I've been using the Gransfors bruks outdoor hatchet on my last expedition trips and I really love it. Only downside is it's quite expensive compared to many other hatches.
 
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