Wetterling 15" or 19"?

bd51

bd51

Joined
Jun 15, 2010
Messages
487
I am thinking about getting a Wetterling 15 or 19 in axe. I would use this for general wood processing, camping but, I would also want it to be able to go backpacking. I was wondering whether the 19 is too big for backpacking or the 15 is too small for camping, etc. Thanks for your input.
 
How big is your pack? Also the 19 incher will be slightly heavier so thats a factor if you want to minimize weight.
I think there was a multipage thread on this exact question a few months back, use the search and you might find it.
:)
 
Weight is not a giant issue, but it is still a concern. I have an REI daypack, that is decently large for a regular backpack. I would like this axe to be able do fit well in that as well as in a backpacking pack.
 
bd51 said:
I am thinking about getting a Wetterling 15 or 19 in axe. I would use this for general wood processing, camping but, I would also want it to be able to go backpacking. I was wondering whether the 19 is too big for backpacking or the 15 is too small for camping, etc. Thanks for your input.
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They use the same size head. I had both and gave the 15" to a "friend." 15" is too big when you want small and too small when you want big. Go with 19"
 
mogwai said:
They use the same size head. I had both and gave the 15" to a "friend." 15" is too big when you want small and too small when you want big. Go with 19"
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I agree. 19" can do everything a hatchet and a 3/4 axe can, yet doesn't feel like a compromise.
 
I have a small forest axe(19") and I find it is the perfect size for backpacking. It is small enough to do fine work with and yet big enough to use 2 hands for splitting or chopping
 
I agree - the 19" is the way to go - just a better, all around, useful tool - good luck!!!
 
I agree with everyone here about the 19". It's a great size that allows for a very extensive range of tasks. I don't find that it is particularly more difficult to use one handed than a 15" model, so carving and bushcraft tasks are still very doable. However, the extra 4" makes a world of difference when it comes to chopping as it is about the minimum length that allows for a decent (albeit slightly awkward) two handed swing. IMO, an axe really starts to excel over a large knife's chopping performance when you can use the axe with both hands. Below 19" and I'd rather be taking a large knife or kukri as I wouldn't be sacrificing much chopping power for the versatility that a big blade offers.

That all said, if you're looking for a jack-of-all-trades axe capable of heavy chopping that can fit into a decent sized rucksack or be strapped outside a pack, then a 19"er is definitely the one to go with. If you're looking for portability, don't intend to take on trees/branches upwards of 4-5", and want to be able to do finer tasks, then I personally think a 10-13" isn't much worse than a 15" and is much more packable. Or you could go with a large knife for the reasons stated earlier...

bd51 said:
Where is the best place to get the 19"? Knifecenter is the only place I've seen
http://www.knifecenter.com/kc_new/store_detail.html?s=SAW20H
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I've had good experience with Ben's backwoods - bought both my GB Scandi and SFA from his site. Great selection of Gransfors Bruks and Wetterlings axes at awesome prices, and he has a lot of other cool outdoorsy gear you might find yourself interested in as well :thumbup:
 
bensbackwoods.com has both the Wetterlings and the GB's in stock at good prices.

19" is indeed the way to go size wise.
 
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